P0A38 means the generator temperature signal has fallen below the range a healthy sensor can produce. Mitsubishi sets it on the 2023 Outlander PHEV when the voltage of the generator W-phase coil sensor is 0.1 V or less for at least 0.5 s while the generator control unit has at least 8 V supply. Such a low voltage usually comes from a signal wire shorted to ground or a shorted sensor; Mitsubishi lists the power drive unit, the generator coil sensor and damaged wiring or connectors as suspects. P0A39 is the matching high fault, P0A37 the plausibility check and P0A3B a genuine over-temperature. Mitsubishi is the only manufacturer found that documents P0A38. Expect a hybrid warning and restricted generator use.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?If the battery warning light comes on, you could get stranded. Turn off electrical accessories and go straight to a repair shop.
Symptoms
- Hybrid warning or check engine light
- Generator temperature shows an implausibly high fixed value
- Battery charging by the engine restricted
Most likely causes
- Sensor signal wire shorted to ground
- Generator coil sensor shorted internally
- Damaged connector or harness between generator and power drive unit
- Faulty sensor input in the power drive unit
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P0A38 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- A: Hybrid or air and fuel
- 38: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0A38?
If the battery warning light comes on, you could get stranded. Turn off electrical accessories and go straight to a repair shop.
What causes code P0A38?
The most common causes are: sensor signal wire shorted to ground; generator coil sensor shorted internally; damaged connector or harness between generator and power drive unit.
Related codes
- P0A36Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit
- P0A37Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
- P0A39Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit High
- P0A3BGenerator A Over Temperature
- P0A32Drive Motor B Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
Sources
- mitsubishitechinfo.com: N503240170000700USA
- mitsubishitechinfo.com: N503140030000700USA
- law.cornell.edu: 13 CCR 1968.2
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.