P0CD1 is the circuit fault of the output that releases charge flap A, normally a relay or driver that briefly powers the latch actuator. A GM patent shows such an actuator retracting a post so the spring-loaded flap can pop open. On the 2011 to 2013 Chevrolet Volt the hybrid control module 2 relies on the fault status its driver reports and covers two cases: short to ground, judged while the unlock is commanded, and a short to 12 V or an open line, judged while it is not, using sample counts such as 64 of 80 at 50 ms. It is a Type B code with the lamp after two trips, and an active P0CD1 blocks the opening check P0CD2. Split low and high codes (P0CD3, P0CD4) are not used there. Result for the driver: the flap stays shut.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?If the car is running normally, drive in moderation to a repair shop. If it loses power or another warning appears, do not continue.
Symptoms
- Charge flap does not unlock
- Warning lamp after two trips (GM Volt)
- Emergency release needed to reach the charge socket
Most likely causes
- Unlock actuator coil open or shorted
- Faulty charge flap relay or its control wire
- Chafed or corroded wiring to the actuator
- Output driver in the control module damaged
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: medium
What each character of P0CD1 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- C: Subsystem depends on the code range
- D1: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0CD1?
If the car is running normally, drive in moderation to a repair shop. If it loses power or another warning appears, do not continue.
What causes code P0CD1?
The most common causes are: unlock actuator coil open or shorted; faulty charge flap relay or its control wire; chafed or corroded wiring to the actuator.
Related codes
- P0CD2Charge Port Door A Unlock Control Circuit Performance
- P0CD3Charge Port Door A Unlock Control Circuit Low
- P0CD4Charge Port Door A Unlock Control Circuit High
- P0CCCCharge Port Door A Position Sensor Circuit
- P2E9DCharge Port Door B Unlock Control Circuit
Sources
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 11OBDG01 HYBRID Diagnostics
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 12OBDG01A HYBRID Diagnostics
- patents.google.com: en
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.