VOLVO
ECM-P163298 - Smart Alternator Faults Sensor / Circuit. Component Failures. Component or system over temperature
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
9 modelsC30 (2007–2013), S40 (2004–2013), S60 (2011–), S80 (2007–), V40 (2013–), V40 Cross Country (2013–), V50 (2004–2013), V60 (2011–), V70 (2008–)
Show models by year and engine (11)
- Volvo C30 (2007–2013)2011–2013Engine D4162T only
- Volvo S40 (2004–2013)2011–2012Engine D4162T only
- Volvo S60 (2011–)2011–2015Engine D4162T only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2008–2010Engine D4204T only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2012–2015Engine D4162T only
- Volvo V40 (2013–)2013–2015Engine D4162T only
- Volvo V40 Cross Country (2013–)2013–2015Engine D4162T only
- Volvo V50 (2004–2013)2011–2012Engine D4162T only
- Volvo V60 (2011–)2011–2015Engine D4162T only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2008–2010Engine D4204T only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2012–2015Engine D4162T only
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module (ECM) has received a message from the alternator control module (ACM) that the generator temperature is above a certain value. Single occurrences may be entirely normal and need not point to a faulty part. The fault probably arises when several extreme conditions combine, for example a very high ambient temperature, a heavy load, for instance a large trailer going uphill, and poorer cooling in the engine bay.
Possible causes
- Ambient temperature too high
- Air intake and/or air outlet to the generator is blocked
- Damaged generator
- Reduced airflow and cooling in the engine bay
What you can do
- 1Check that the air intake and air outlet to the generator are not blocked
- 2Check that nothing is restricting airflow in the engine bay, for example leaves or dirt
- 3Check the battery charge and that the battery terminals are tight
- 4If the fault code returns after driving: have a workshop try a new generator
Symptoms you may notice4
- A text message and a warning symbol appear in the display
- The battery may be dead or have low voltage
- The charge warning lamp lights or behaves abnormally
- The engine does not start, sometimes or all the time
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.