VOLVO
ECM-P163287 - Smart Alternator Faults Sensor / Circuit. Bus Signal / Message Failures. Missing message
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
5 modelsS80 (2007–), V70 (2008–), XC60 (2009–), XC70 (2008–), XC90 (2003–)
Show models by year and engine (11)
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2007Engine D5244T4, D5244T5 only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2008–2009Engine D4204T, D5244T4, D5244T5 only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2010Engine D4164T, D4204T only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2011Engine D4164T only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2008–2009Engine D4204T, D5244T4, D5244T5 only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2010Engine D4164T, D4204T only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2011Engine D4164T only
- Volvo XC60 (2009–)2009All engines except: B6304T2
- Volvo XC70 (2008–)2008All engines except: B6324S
- Volvo XC70 (2008–)2009Engine D5244T4, D5244T5 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2013–2014Engine D5244T18, D5244T5 only
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module (ECM) communicates with the alternator control module (ACM) over LIN communication. The fault code is set when messages from the ACM are missing, or when the ECM otherwise detects a fault in the communication. The generator can then charge with a fixed voltage.
Possible causes
- Open circuit on the signal wire or on one of the LIN wires
- Contact resistance or oxidation in the connections
- Short circuit between the LIN wires
- Internal fault in another control module on the same part of the LIN network
- Damaged alternator control module (ACM), meaning the charge regulator
- A generator with a charge regulator not designed for LIN communication is fitted
What you can do
- 1Check that the connectors to the charge regulator are firmly seated and free from oxide
- 2Use a multimeter to check that the signal wire between the control modules has no break and is not short-circuited to earth or battery positive
- 3Have a diagnostic tool: start the engine and follow the generator charging current in live data to see whether it changes as it should
- 4Check that the correct type of generator with charge regulator is fitted to the car
- 5If the fault code returns: have a workshop check the LIN communication and the charge regulator
Symptoms you may notice5
- The battery may be dead or have low voltage
- The charge warning lamp lights or behaves abnormally
- The generator or charge regulator may cause power supply problems
- The engine is hard to start and cranks slowly during start attempts
- The engine hesitates during acceleration
What the fault can affect1
- The charge regulator charges with a fixed voltage
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.