WOMS
P code powertrain Medium severity

P023C Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control Circuit High

The OBD2 code P023C indicates that there is a high voltage or an electrical issue in the control circuit of the charge air cooler coolant pump, which may affect its operation

Definition

The OBD2 code P023C indicates that there is a high voltage or an electrical issue in the control circuit of the charge air cooler coolant pump, which may affect its operation

Common causes

  • Faulty charge air cooler coolant pump
  • Wiring issues (short circuit or open circuit)
  • Bad connectors or terminals
  • Failed coolant pump relay
  • Faulty engine control module (ECM)
  • Low coolant level
  • Corroded or damaged wiring harness
  • Poor ground connection

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty charge air cooler
  • Bad coolant pump
  • Wiring issues or shorts
  • Faulty engine control module (ECM)
  • Incorrect coolant levels
  • Thermostat malfunction
  • Air intake system leaks
  • Turbocharger issues
  • Sensor malfunctions (e.g., temperature or pressure sensors)
  • Electrical connector problems

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check for Additional Codes

    Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other related trouble codes. This can provide more context and help identify if there are other issues present

  2. 2. Inspect the Wiring and Connectors

    Visually inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the charge air cooler coolant pump. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections

  3. 3. Pay special attention to any frayed wires or broken connectors that could cause a short circuit or high resistance

  4. 4. Test the Coolant Pump

    If accessible, test the charge air cooler coolant pump itself. You can do this by applying direct power to the pump to see if it operates correctly

  5. 5. If the pump does not work when powered directly, it may need to be replaced

  6. 6. Check the Control Circuit

    Use a multimeter to check the voltage and ground at the pump connector. Ensure that the voltage is within the manufacturer's specifications

  7. 7. Check for any shorts to ground or power in the control circuit

  8. 8. Inspect the Relay and Fuses

    Check the relay that controls the coolant pump. A faulty relay can cause high voltage readings or prevent the pump from operating

  9. 9. Inspect the fuses related to the coolant pump circuit to ensure they are intact

  10. 10. Examine the Engine Control Module (ECM)

    If all other components check out, the issue may lie within the ECM. Ensure that the ECM is functioning correctly and that it is sending the appropriate signals to the coolant pump

  11. 11. Reprogramming or replacing the ECM may be necessary if it is determined to be faulty

  12. 12. Check for Software Updates

    Sometimes, manufacturers release software updates for the ECM that can resolve known issues. Check if there are any updates available for your vehicle

  13. 13. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  14. 14. Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

    Look for any TSBs related to the P023C code for your specific vehicle make and model. Manufacturers may have specific recommendations or known issues that could help in troubleshooting

  15. 15. Seek Professional Help

    If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with your vehicle's make and model. By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the P023C code and take appropriate action to resolve it