P0CF9

What it means

P0CF9 is a generic code meaning the charging control unit has seen the control pilot charging switch 'A' signal or circuit outside its expected range or behaving implausibly. The control pilot is the signal line between the charge point and the vehicle that confirms a connection and sets the permitted charging current. The exact switch, circuit and thresholds depend on the make and model.

Symptoms

• Vehicle will not start charging or stops charging part-way through
• Charge port light or dashboard shows a charging fault or warning
• Charging is slower than normal or limited to a reduced current
• Charge cable will not lock or release at the inlet
• Hybrid or EV warning light on, with the fault stored in the charging or battery control unit

Possible causes

• Faulty or poor-quality charge cable or charge point giving an incorrect control pilot signallikely
• Damaged, dirty, corroded or water-affected pins in the vehicle charge inletlikely
• Wiring fault in the control pilot circuit (open circuit, short, chafed or high resistance) between the inlet and the charging control unitpossible
• Poor connection or corrosion at a connector in the charging circuitpossible
• Low or unstable 12 volt supply upsetting the charging control unitpossible
• Internal fault in the charging control unit or on-board chargerrare

How to diagnose

1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting whether other charging, high-voltage or communication codes are present, then record the data before clearing anything.
2. Try a different charge point and a different known-good cable, including a slow home-type supply if available, to see whether the fault follows the equipment or the vehicle.
3. Inspect the charge inlet for bent, burnt, dirty or corroded pins, moisture, debris and a damaged latch or lock mechanism.
4. Check the 12 volt battery condition and charging voltage, as low voltage can cause false signal faults.
5. Inspect the wiring and connectors from the inlet to the charging control unit for chafing, water ingress, pin tension and corrosion.
6. Following the manufacturer's procedure, check the control pilot signal at the inlet while connected to a charge point, using the correct test equipment, and compare with specification.
7. Check the wiring for continuity, short circuits and resistance against the wiring diagram for that model.
8. Check for manufacturer technical bulletins relating to this code on the specific model and software version.

How to fix

• Replace or repair the faulty charge cable or report the charge point fault to its operator.
• Clean or replace the damaged or corroded charge inlet.
• Repair or replace damaged wiring in the control pilot circuit and correct any water ingress.
• Clean, repair or replace faulty connectors and terminals.
• Correct 12 volt battery or supply problems.
• Replace or repair the charging control unit or on-board charger only after the wiring, inlet and supply are proven good, following the manufacturer's procedure.

Can I keep driving?

Nearby codes

• P0CF8GenericControl Pilot Charging Switch A Circuit/Open
• P0CFAGenericControl Pilot Charging Switch A Circuit Low