Code
P2D73
Generic
P — Powertrain
Battery Charging System Negative Contactor D Control Circuit/Open
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open or shorted wiring between control module and contactor coil/driver
- Disconnected, corroded or damaged connector at the contactor or ECU
- Failed contactor coil or contactor mechanical failure
- Failed driver transistor or output stage in the charging/BCM/ECU
- Blown fuse or tripped protection device in the contactor supply/driver circuit
- High-voltage interlock or safety relay preventing contactor operation
Symptoms
- Charging disabled or intermittent charging of HV battery
- EV/Hybrid may show charging-system or battery warnings on dash
- Vehicle may refuse to start/enter ready state or will limp to a reduced state
- High-voltage system fault lamp or general warning lamp illuminated
- Possible loss of power feed to charging circuits or inability to close contactor
What to check
- Observe and record freeze-frame and live-data from scan tool; confirm DTC and status of contactor command and feedback
- Perform visual inspection of wiring, connectors and contactor for damage, corrosion, water intrusion
- Ensure vehicle is made safe for HV work per manufacturer procedure before touching components
- Check fuses, service disconnects and protection devices related to charging/contactors
- Verify connector pin retention and wiring continuity from module to contactor with power removed
- Measure voltage at the contactor control connector while commanding the contactor (use proper HV/12V precautions)
Signal parameters
- Control type: switched coil driver (low-side or high-side) controlled by charging/BCM/ECU
- Command signal: battery or system control voltage when ON (12 V in auxiliary control or HV pilot depending on design); 0 V when OFF
- Feedback: some systems provide closed-loop status or current sensing instead of direct feedback
- Coil resistance: typically low-ohm value (vehicle-specific). Expect measurable continuity (not infinite).
- Current draw when energized: typically small to moderate (design-dependent). An open circuit reads infinite resistance.
Diagnostic algorithm
- Read and record all related DTCs and freeze-frame data; note times and system state when fault set.
- Confirm safety: disable HV system and follow manufacturer isolation procedures before inspecting or disconnecting HV components.
- Visual inspection: inspect negative contactor assembly, connectors, wiring harness, and signs of overheating or corrosion.
- Check fuses/relays: verify auxiliary and contactor-related fuses/relays are present and functional.
- With vehicle safe for diagnostics, command the contactor ON using a scan tool and observe command status and any feedback bits.
- Measure voltage at the contactor control terminal while commanded ON. If no voltage, trace back to driver module and check connector/power supply.
- With HV isolated and discharged per procedure, measure coil resistance across the contactor coil. Open (infinite) indicates a failed coil or open harness.
- Perform continuity checks from the control module output pin to the contactor connector pin. Repair any open/short circuits found.
- If wiring and connectors are good and coil resistance is correct but no operation occurs, test or replace the controlling module output stage or swap with a known-good module if possible.
- After repairs, clear codes, attempt normal charging operation, and verify DTC does not return and that charging/contactors operate correctly.
- Note: Always follow manufacturer-specific service manuals and HV safety procedures when working on battery/contactors.
Likely causes
- Broken/disconnected harness or terminal at the negative contactor
- Failed contactor coil (open coil winding)
- Faulty low-side/high-side driver in the module controlling the contactor
- Connector corrosion or pin pushed out at contactor or ECU
- Protective fuse or current-sensing device open
Fault status
Status
Control circuit open for Battery Charging System Negative Contactor D — contactor commanded but open/no continuity detected. Charging may be disabled and a high-voltage system warning may be present.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0-3.0 hours
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