P0A39 is the high-side counterpart of P0A38: the generator temperature signal stays above the range a working sensor can deliver. Mitsubishi sets it on the 2023 Outlander PHEV when the generator W-phase coil sensor voltage reaches 4.93 V or more for at least 0.5 s. A voltage that close to the reference typically means the sensor circuit is open, a connector is unplugged or a terminal has lost contact, less often a short to a supply. Mitsubishi points to the power drive unit, the coil sensor in the generator and the harness. P0A37 handles implausible but in-range readings, P0A3B a real overheat. No other manufacturer documents P0A39 publicly. The system cannot protect the generator and limits its 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 a very low fixed value
- Generator output or series mode restricted
Most likely causes
- Open sensor circuit or unplugged generator connector
- Spread or corroded terminals at the generator or power drive unit
- Generator coil sensor open internally
- Signal wire shorted to a supply voltage
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 P0A39 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- A: Hybrid or air and fuel
- 39: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0A39?
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 P0A39?
The most common causes are: open sensor circuit or unplugged generator connector; spread or corroded terminals at the generator or power drive unit; generator coil sensor open internally.
Related codes
- P0A36Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit
- P0A37Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
- P0A38Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0A3BGenerator A Over Temperature
- P0A33Drive Motor B Temperature Sensor Circuit High
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.