P023A Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control Circuit Open
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control Circuit Open
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with a charge air cooler. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Ford, Chevy, Mazda, Toyota, etc.
In forced inducted systems, they use a Charge Air Cooler or what I am going to call it, an Intercooler (IC) to help in cooling the charge air the engine uses. These work similar to a radiator.
In the IC’s case, instead of cooling antifreeze, it cools air to make for a more efficient air/fuel mixture in turn, better fuel mileage, performance, etc. In some of these systems, the IC uses a combination of air and coolant to aid in cooling the charge air being forced into the cylinders via forced induction (supercharger or turbocharger).
In those cases, to accommodate additional coolant flow needs, a coolant pump is used. Generally speaking these are electronic fluid pumps that basically supply a coolant flow needed to the IC that the water pump cannot supply independently.
The MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illuminates the instrument cluster with P023A and associated codes when it monitors a condition outside of a specific range within the IC’s coolant pump control circuit. Off the top of my head i can think of two causes, one is an obstruction within the pump's openings causing an electrical value to go out of range. The other, is a chafed control wire that wore through the electrical connection causing an open circuit. Point being, both mechanical and electrical faults are equally possible.
Code P023A Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control Circuit Open is active when there is an open circuit within the charge air cooler coolant pump and/or its circuit
What is the severity of this DTC?
Severity in this case would be low. In most cases, this fault will not present any immediate safety concerns. That said, the drivability and performance of the vehicle may suffer, especially if left unattended long enough.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P023A engine code may include:
MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illuminated Poor engine performance Poor fuel mileage Erratic/abnormal engine temperaturesWhat are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
Internal mechanical obstruction in coolant pump Open within coolant pump control circuit Broken or damaged Coolant pump wiring harness ECM (Engine Control Module) issue Pin/connector problem. (e.g. corrosion, broken lock tab, etc.)What are some P023A troubleshooting steps?
Be sure to check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle. Getting access to a known fix can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Basic Step #1
First you will need to locate your IC (Intercooler. AKA Charge Air Cooler) . Generally speaking, these are located in a location where they can receive optimal air flow (e.g front of radiator, inside front bumper, under hood). Once located, you will have to find the coolant lines/ pipes in order to trace back to the coolant pump. It could be difficult to find because they are generally mounted inline of coolant flow so keep that in mind. Given the temperatures that the coolant system is exposed to, it would be wise to inspect the harness around the area thoroughly for signs of melting harness' or things of that nature.
NOTE: Make sure to let engine cool before testing or repairing the cooling system.
Basic Step #2
Verify the integrity of your cooling system. Check your coolant levels and also the health of the coolant. Make sure it is clean and full before proceeding.
NOTE: Refer to your service manual to verify what specific an
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