P0E71: Control Pilot Signal Frequency Too High
The control pilot PWM frequency from the EVSE is too high. SAE J1772 requires 1 kHz +/- tolerance. The on-board charger negotiates voltage, current and safety with the EVSE; a fault interrupts charging or limits it to AC slow-charge despite a DC fast charger being attached.
What P0E71 means
P0E71 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the hybrid & EV group.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Charge status indicator shows fault
- Charging may not start or interrupts
- Slower-than-expected charge rate
Common causes
- 01EVSE PWM above 1 kHz specMost likely
- 02EVSE oscillator driftPossible
Can I drive with P0E71?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0E71
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0E71. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the control pilot signal and evse for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: EVSE PWM above 1 kHz spec; EVSE oscillator drift. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0E71 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Control pilot signal
- Evse
P0E71 FAQ
What does P0E71 mean?
P0E71 means “Control Pilot Signal Frequency Too High”. The control pilot PWM frequency from the EVSE is too high. SAE J1772 requires 1 kHz +/- tolerance. The on-board charger negotiates voltage, current and safety with the EVSE; a fault interrupts charging or limits it to AC slow-charge despite a DC fast charger being attached.
Is P0E71 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0E71 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes P0E71?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: EVSE PWM above 1 kHz spec; EVSE oscillator drift. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0E71?
Typical labor is about $65–$375 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0E71 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0E71 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.