What Does the Engine Code P0A0F Mean?
A P0A0F engine code means that your car’s engine has failed to start.
Written by Pat Roache
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
When your car shows a P0A0F engine code, it means your car’s fail-safe control has been triggered by complications with your engine or transaxle gear. Your car will not start until the source of the problem has been resolved.
Engine code P0A0F and other diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are read using a device called an OBD-II. Anyone can read and understand OBD codes on an OBD-II reader to figure out their car’s mechanical problems or “Check Engine” needs before visiting a mechanic.
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What does the engine code P0A0F mean?
Definition: Engine failed to start
The P0A0F engine code means that your engine has malfunctioned. If something is wrong with your engine or transaxle gear, the following will happen:
- The engine control module (ECM) detects it
- The ECM sends a signal to the power management control electronic control unit (ECU)
- The power management control ECU sets the P0A0F engine code
- Your car’s hybrid vehicle control ECU detects the new engine code and takes action
When this happens, your car’s hybrid vehicle (HV) control electronic control unit (ECU) enacts fail-safe control. Fail-safe control keeps your car from operating under unsafe conditions.
MORE: How to react when your car won't start
How much will it cost to fix?
If the cause of your P0A0F engine code is an easy fix, it should only cost a few hundred dollars at most. However, if this code results from a faulty computer component, replacements could send these costs as high as $2,000.
A high price tag on a P0A0F engine code is a worst-case scenario. At the very least, expect to pay for a few hours at the mechanic, where labor costs can range from $75 to $150 per hour.
MORE: How to know if a mechanic is taking too long with car repairs
What can cause the P0A0F engine code?
Engine malfunctions that affect your car’s ability to operate cause the P0A0F engine code. Here are some problems that could be causing your engine malfunctions:
- Your engine or transaxle gear has seized up
- Foreign objects are caught in your engine or transaxle gear
- Malfunctioning control module or ECU
- Issues with your Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) system
The SFI system is a fuel delivery system that fires fuel into the engine. If there are issues with your SFI system, it means that pistons are not able to fire fuel into the engine in their assigned sequence.
MORE: Does car insurance cover repairs?
Common symptoms of the P0A0F engine code
The most apparent symptom of the P0A0F engine code is that your car will not operate. Your car’s
Check Engine Light
will also illuminate when a malfunctioning or failed engine sets off the P0A0F engine code.How serious is the P0A0F engine code?
Until the P0A0F engine code is addressed, fail-safe control will remain in effect and your car will not start. Servicing your vehicle is the only way to get your car up and running again.
Can I fix the P0A0F engine code myself?
The engine malfunctions that triggered your P0A0F engine code could be caused by a number of obscure problems, so you may need a mechanic’s help for this one. When looking for the source of the code, a mechanic will inspect all related wiring and connectors to find the fault.
A mechanic may need to repair or replace the following:
- Connector pins that have been broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded
- A corroded or defective wiring harness
- A corroded or defective interlock harness
- A distorted powertrain control module (PCM)
- A faulty ECM (engine control module)
Once the offending parts have been repaired or replaced, your P0A0F engine code should be resolved. Thank your mechanic, and get back on the road.
Key Takeaway Use a professional to inspect every possible problem that could be causing engine code P0A0F.
How do I move my car?
The hardest part about repairing your car after a P0A0F engine code could be getting it to the mechanic in the first place.
In some cases, you may be able to hire a home-visit service or mobile mechanic depending on what’s available in your area. But in some cases, calling a tow truck may be inevitable.
If you have to hire a towing service, check to see if roadside assistance or towing and labor coverage is covered by your car insurance policy. If you’re worried that you’re paying too much for roadside assistance, download the car insurance super app, Jerry, to find the best competitive rates and policies for you.
MORE: Is it common for car insurance rates to go up after using roadside assistance?
Finding insurance for your vehicle
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