Defect
On certain Hybrid-powered vehicles, the direct voltage converter (DC-DC), which converts the 158 volts of the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery into the 12 volts required to power the 12-volt battery and electrical components of the vehicle, may have been damaged during testing prior to vehicle assembly. If excessive voltage was applied to the diode chip during testing, the diode chip may be damaged. The performance of a damaged diode chip degrades over time and may cause the DC-DC converter to short circuit and the main fuse for the 12-volt battery to blow. A blown main fuse will prohibit power from being provided to the vehicle's electrical components, which will cause the headlights to turn off, the engine to stall, and prevent the vehicle from being restarted. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.
Safety Risk
No risk description available.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the DC-DC converter.