Diagnostic article Generic OBD-II

P23C6: coolant bypass valve C motor driver overcurrent

P23C6 detects an overcurrent condition while the coolant bypass valve C H-bridge is energized.

Read before applying this article

Documented application

2025 GM 25OBDG04B diagnostic parameter file; the cited monitor is documented, but individual vehicle, engine and calibration applicability has not been established.

The code alone does not identify a failed part or establish that a vehicle is safe to drive. Confirm the vehicle, reporting module and applicable service procedure.

P23C6 is generically described as excessive driver current or temperature. The cited GM row specifically documents motor-current monitoring for coolant bypass valve C. It checks current while the H-bridge is energized and uses the driver's overcurrent status.

What the numerical entry means—and does not mean

The threshold cell prints “8.1 A < X < 12.8 A” beside the controller-specific overcurrent description. It does not clearly define a universal fixed trip current or a safe normal operating range. The supported interpretation is an energized-driver overcurrent diagnosis; the exact applicable limit needs calibration confirmation.

The monitor requires valid run/crank, no engine cranking, an enabled diagnostic system and a determinate driver status. The condition is evaluated for two seconds within a five-second window. Reporting is Type B, two trips.

Diagnostic direction

A motor-command observation without current or driver-status evidence does not establish this fault. Conversely, the code alone cannot distinguish a mechanical load problem from an electrical or driver problem. Preserve the command, current-related data and driver status where available, then follow the specific service test. Verification must include the energized operating state that invokes the monitor. A key-on check with an inactive H-bridge leaves the documented overcurrent test unanswered.

Source and application limits

This explanation covers the cited 2025 GM monitor. Confirm the vehicle and calibration in its service information before applying these limits; inclusion in this file does not establish model compatibility. GM diagnostic parameters, PDF page 821.

Article source documents

  1. General Motors

    25OBDG04B — 2025 Engine and Transmission Diagnostic Parameters

Source checks describe how the text was prepared; they do not certify a diagnosis or confirm compatibility with every vehicle using this code.

Original code reference

Dictionary definition

Engine Coolant Bypass Valve C Control Circuit Driver Current/Temperature Too High

This definition retains its original catalog scope. The article above is limited to its explicitly documented application.

Reference scope

Generic OBD-II definition.

A manufacturer label does not establish the model, year, engine or module to which a diagnosis applies. Read the safety and diagnostic limits.

Definition source

  1. Community reference dataWal33D (Waleed Judah)
    DTC Database: pinned community code definitions

    Source checked · MIT