P101C on Mitsubishi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Quick Charging Contactor (N) Stuck / Welded
1 Mitsubishi model · 1 documented issue · $150-$2,500 repair
P101C on Mitsubishi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The PHEV isolates its CHAdeMO fast-charge port from the traction pack with quick-charge contactors. An abnormal-current event during a DC fast charge session — a station that drops or spikes current, or a handshake that aborts mid-session — can weld the negative quick-charge contactor closed. Once welded, the EV-ECU can no longer prove the fast-charge circuit is isolated, so it sets P101C and throws 'EV system service required'; owners on the PHEV forum report the fault appearing immediately after a fast charge, sometimes with the charging station itself reporting 'failure to communicate with vehicle'. AC (Type 1/Type 2) charging often still works, which is what makes people mis-blame the charge point rather than the car.
Common Symptoms
- 'EV system service required' warning immediately after DC fast charging
- CHAdeMO session aborts or never starts
- Charging station shows 'failure to communicate with vehicle'
- AC charging still works normally
- Reduced EV range or turtle/limp mode
How to Fix
Read the code with a PHEV-capable tool — a generic OBD reader will not return P101C. Mitsubishi issued a service bulletin covering fast-charge abnormal-current detection, and in a number of cases a software update to the EV/charging control resolves the fault, so ask the dealer for the current calibration first. If the contactor is physically welded, the quick-charge contactor assembly has to be replaced by a high-voltage-qualified technician. Interim workaround owners use: charge on AC only and avoid the fast charger that triggered it.
Sources for this issue (3)
P101C code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P101C mean on a Mitsubishi?
P101C stands for "Quick Charging Contactor (N) Stuck / Welded." The PHEV-ECU checks the state of the negative-side quick-charging contactor against its command. When the contactor remains closed after the ECU has commanded it open (welded or mechanically stuck contacts), the ECU stores P101C. The companion code P101B covers the positive-side (P) contactor. Because a stuck DC-charge contactor is a high-voltage safety hazard, the vehicle restricts motor output and disables quick charging; if P101B and P101C set together the vehicle will not enter 'Ready' at all. On Mitsubishi it is documented across 1 model: Outlander.
What are the most common causes of P101C?
The most common causes of P101C are: Negative quick-charging contactor contacts welded shut from arcing during DC fast charge, Contactor mechanical failure or coil fault, Abnormal current detected during fast charge (addressed by a Mitsubishi PHEV-ECU software update on some vehicles), Wiring or connector fault in the contactor drive circuit. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P101C on a Mitsubishi?
Published repair estimates on Mitsubishi range from $150 to $2,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P101C on a different make?
View P101C across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.