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P1AF4 Buick Code - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The drive motor generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) contains two Motor Control Modules (MCMs). Common causes include Reprogram Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Faulty Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted. 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
P1AF4 Buick indicates Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Reprogram Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Faulty Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 748
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 05, 2020
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Code P1AF4 Buick Description

The drive motor generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) contains two Motor Control Modules (MCMs). Each MCM measures hybrid battery High Voltage (HV) with several internal sensors. The MCMs test for Loss Ff Isolation (LOI) between either the HV positive circuit or HV negative circuit and vehicle chassis. The MCMs test for isolation when the HV contactor relays are closed. The battery energy control module (BECM) only tests the hybrid battery assembly for HV loss of isolation when the HV contactor relays are open.
MCM LOI is detected through the use of two high-impedance resistors and voltage measuring circuitry. The two resistors are connected in series between the HV positive and HV negative circuits. The center connection of the two resistors is also connected to vehicle chassis. The MCM then measures the voltage drop across one of the resistors. Without a loss of isolation, the MCM should measure about half of the high voltage potential. This is referred to as mid-pack voltage. The Mid-pack voltage value is then doubled by the software and displayed on a scan tool as Motor 1 Isolation Voltage or Motor 2 Isolation Voltage. When a loss of isolation is present, the motor isolation voltage display will indicate voltage that is more or less than actual hybrid battery high voltage. The MCM monitors the LOI voltage measuring circuitry for correct operation.
OBDII Code P1AF4 Buick - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P1AF4 Buick Code - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1AF4 Buick?

  • Reprogram Power Inverter Control Module (PIM)
  • Faulty Power Inverter Control Module (PIM)
  • Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted
  • Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1AF4 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 P1AF4 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.

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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 P1AF4 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1AF4 mean for a Buick?

P1AF4 indicates an issue with the hybrid battery voltage isolation sensor circuit, specifically a low voltage condition detected in Drive Motor 1's control module.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1AF4 in a Buick?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced hybrid system performance, limited power mode, or difficulty operating in electric-only mode.

3. What causes the P1AF4 code to appear in a Buick?

Common causes include a faulty hybrid battery voltage isolation sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunction in Drive Motor 1's control module.

4. Can I drive my Buick with the P1AF4 code active?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it could lead to further damage to the hybrid system and reduced vehicle performance.

5. How is the P1AF4 code diagnosed in a Buick?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to read the code, inspect the voltage isolation sensor and its circuit for damage, and test the hybrid battery system for proper function.

6. How do I fix the P1AF4 code on my Buick?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty voltage isolation sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the Drive Motor 1 control module.

7. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P1AF4 code?

Tools may include a professional OBDII scan tool, a multimeter for voltage testing, and service manuals specific to the Buick hybrid system.

8. Does the P1AF4 code always mean the voltage isolation sensor is faulty?

No, this code can also result from damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or issues within the control module itself.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P1AF4 code in a Buick?

Repair costs vary based on the specific issue but can range from $200 to $1,500, depending on whether the sensor, wiring, or control module needs replacement.

10. Can clearing the code fix the P1AF4 issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying problem will only temporarily turn off the warning light, and the code will likely return.

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