2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring - Reduced Propulsion Power Warning & CEL

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Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:23 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring

Hey everyone,

I'm experiencing a concerning issue with my 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring. While driving yesterday, I suddenly got a 'Reduced Propulsion Power' warning message on the main display, and the check engine light came on. The car immediately felt sluggish, like it was in a limp mode.

I pulled over, turned the car off and on again, but the warning and the check engine light persisted. I tried charging it overnight, and that seemed to work fine, but the driving performance is still severely limited. It's definitely not driving like it should.

Has anyone else with a Lucid Air experienced this? What could be causing this 'Reduced Propulsion Power' warning? I'm hoping it's something simple and not a major battery or motor issue. Any advice on what to check or if there's a common fix would be greatly appreciated before I have to take it in.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'Reduced Propulsion Power' warning on your 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring, accompanied by a Check Engine Light (CEL), indicates that the vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a fault that is limiting the power output to protect the system. This is a critical warning and should be addressed promptly.

Here are potential causes and steps:

  1. High Voltage Battery System Faults: Issues within the battery management system (BMS), individual battery cell imbalances, or problems with the high-voltage contactors can trigger this. The system might be limiting power to prevent further damage or ensure safety.
  2. Electric Motor/Inverter Issues: Problems with one of the electric motors, its associated inverter, or the motor control unit can cause a power reduction. Sensors monitoring motor speed, temperature, or current could be reporting out-of-spec readings.
  3. Cooling System Problems: Overheating of the battery, motors, or power electronics can lead to a power derate. Ensure there are no obvious leaks or low coolant levels in the high-voltage cooling circuits (though these are typically sealed systems).
  4. Sensor Malfunctions: Faulty sensors (e.g., accelerator pedal position sensor, wheel speed sensors, current sensors) can send incorrect data to the PCM, leading it to misinterpret operating conditions and limit power.
  5. Software Glitches: Less common, but sometimes a software anomaly can trigger false warnings. A system reset (often requiring a specific procedure or dealership tool) might clear it temporarily, but the underlying issue needs diagnosis.

What to do:

  1. Check for OBD-II Codes: While generic OBD-II scanners might show a P-code related to the powertrain (e.g., P0AXX, P0BXX, P0CXX series for hybrid/EV systems), Lucid's advanced systems often generate specific manufacturer codes that require a specialized diagnostic tool to fully interpret. Note down any codes you find.
  2. Avoid Prolonged Driving: Continuing to drive with reduced power can potentially exacerbate the issue or cause further damage to expensive components. Limit driving to essential trips to a service center.
  3. When to See a Shop: Given the nature of high-voltage electric vehicle systems and the complexity of the Lucid Air, it is strongly recommended to have your vehicle professionally diagnosed by a Lucid service center as soon as possible. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair high-voltage components yourself, as this poses significant safety risks. They have the proprietary diagnostic tools and expertise to pinpoint the exact fault and perform necessary repairs or software updates.