AutoCodes – Buick – P1A88 Buick

P1A88 Buick Code - 42 Volt System Performance

Quick Answer

The Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) supplies the energy that flows between the high voltage, 300 volt, Direct Current (DC) and intermediate voltage, 42 volt, DC to support the Electric Power Steering (EPS). Common causes include Faulty Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM), Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) harness is open or shorted, Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1A88 Buick indicates 42 Volt System Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM), Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) harness is open or shorted, Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 1,012

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Feb 23, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P1A88 Buick Description

The Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) supplies the energy that flows between the high voltage, 300 volt, Direct Current (DC) and intermediate voltage, 42 volt, DC to support the Electric Power Steering (EPS). The APM receives a 42 volt enable command from the Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) over the high speed hybrid GMLAN communication circuit.
The APM continuously monitors the status of its 42 volt circuitry. It will do some diagnostics on this circuitry when the ignition key is first turned to RUN. Additional diagnostics are run while the APM is doing 42 volt conversions after receiving the 42 volt enable command.

OBDII Code P1A88 Buick - 42 Volt System Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1A88 Buick Code - 42 Volt System Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1A88 Buick?

Faulty Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM)
Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) harness is open or shorted
Accessory DC Power Control Module (APM) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1A88 Buick?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1A88 Buick code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1A88 Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1A88 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1A88 Buick code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1A88 Buick Code

1. What does the P1A88 code mean on a Buick?

The P1A88 code indicates an issue with the 42-volt system performance, typically related to hybrid or electrical components in the vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P1A88 code in a Buick?

Common symptoms include reduced fuel efficiency, the hybrid system not functioning properly, warning lights on the dashboard, or diminished vehicle performance.

3. What causes the P1A88 code to appear on a Buick?

Possible causes include a malfunctioning hybrid battery, issues with the inverter or converter, damaged wiring, or a fault in the control module.

4. Can I drive my Buick with the P1A88 code active?

While the car may still be drivable, itâ€™s not recommended as the hybrid or electrical system may not be working correctly, which can lead to further damage or loss of performance.

5. How is the P1A88 code diagnosed in a Buick?

A technician will use an OBDII scanner to read the code and then inspect the 42-volt system components, including the hybrid battery, wiring, and control modules, to pinpoint the issue.

6. What repairs are needed to fix the P1A88 code?

Repairs may include replacing the hybrid battery, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, fixing the inverter/converter, or reprogramming/updating the control module.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P1A88 code on a Buick?

The cost varies depending on the specific issue, but repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for wiring fixes to several thousand for a hybrid battery replacement.

8. Can a low-voltage battery cause the P1A88 code?

Yes, a weak or failing 12-volt battery can sometimes trigger this code, as it may affect the hybrid systemâ€™s performance.

9. Is the P1A88 code specific to hybrid Buick models?

Yes, this code is typically found in hybrid models as it pertains to the 42-volt electrical system used in hybrid powertrains.

10. What preventive maintenance can help avoid the P1A88 code?

Regularly inspect and maintain the hybrid battery, ensure all electrical connections are secure, and keep the vehicleâ€™s software updated to avoid system malfunctions.