P2673 – Actuator Supply Voltage “D” Circuit/Open

System: Powertrain | Standard: ISO/SAE Controlled | Fault type: Circuit/Open

Definition source: SAE J2012/J2012DA (industry standard)

P2673 is a powertrain diagnostic trouble code that indicates the control module has detected an open circuit condition in the Actuator Supply Voltage “D” circuit. In practical terms, the module expected to see a valid electrical supply feed for a group of actuator(s) assigned to the “D” supply path, but instead detected that the circuit is not electrically complete (for example, disconnected, broken, or not making contact). The exact actuator(s) powered by the “D” supply and the monitor strategy used to set the code vary by vehicle, so always confirm the circuit routing, connector pinouts, and test points using the correct service information before performing repairs.

What Does P2673 Mean?

P2673 – Actuator Supply Voltage “D” Circuit/Open means the vehicle’s control module has identified an open-circuit fault in the electrical supply circuit labeled “Actuator Supply Voltage ‘D’.” SAE J2012 defines the overall DTC naming/structure, while the official definition for this code specifies the fault type as Circuit/Open. This points to an electrical continuity problem in the supply path (such as an unplugged connector, broken conductor, poor terminal contact, or an open fuse/connection in that branch), not a “high” or “low” voltage condition by itself. Which actuators are on the “D” supply and how the module detects the open depends on the platform.

Quick Reference

• Subsystem: Actuator supply power feed labeled “D” (power distribution circuit to one or more actuators; exact loads vary by vehicle).
• Common triggers: Unplugged actuator/connector, broken wire, backed-out terminal, poor pin fit, open fuse/link feeding that branch, or damage in the harness segment serving supply “D.”
• Likely root-cause buckets: Wiring/connector faults (most common), open power feed or distribution point, actuator internal open affecting the feed path (varies by design), or less commonly a module driver/supply path issue.
• Severity: Typically moderate to high; affected actuator(s) may be disabled, causing reduced performance or drivability changes; severity depends on which actuator(s) share supply “D.”
• First checks: Verify the code is current, inspect related fuses/links and connectors, look for obvious harness damage, and confirm the supply is present at the actuator connector under the same conditions that set the code.
• Common mistakes: Replacing an actuator before checking the supply feed continuity, overlooking terminal tension/pin fit, or skipping harness wiggle testing that reveals an intermittent open.

Theory of Operation

Many vehicles group multiple actuators onto dedicated power supply branches for control, diagnostics, and load management. The branch identified as Actuator Supply Voltage “D” is one such feed, typically distributed through a fuse, relay, or internal module switch, then routed through the harness to the actuator(s). Depending on design, the control module may provide a switched supply, monitor the supply line, or infer supply integrity by observing commanded actuator response.

For a Circuit/Open fault, the module’s diagnostic logic generally looks for evidence that the supply path is electrically incomplete when it should be available. This may be detected by a monitored supply line that does not show the expected presence of power, by a lack of current flow when an actuator is commanded, or by feedback signals that indicate the actuator cannot operate. Because detection methods and enable conditions vary by vehicle, verifying the monitor conditions and wiring topology in service information is essential.

Symptoms

• Warning light: Malfunction indicator lamp or powertrain warning illuminated.
• Reduced function: One or more actuators on the “D” supply may be disabled or operate in a limited mode.
• Driveability change: Hesitation, reduced power, or abnormal response may occur depending on which actuator(s) are affected.
• No-start/extended crank: Possible if the disabled actuator(s) are required for starting on that platform.
• Intermittent behavior: Symptoms may come and go with vibration, temperature changes, or harness movement consistent with an open connection.
• Additional codes: Related actuator or supply/communication codes may set as secondary results of the missing supply.

Common Causes

• Open circuit in the actuator supply voltage “D” feed wire (broken conductor, internal wire break, or damage in a harness bend point)
• Connector unplugged or not fully seated at the actuator, junction connector, fuse/relay block, or control module
• Poor terminal fit, backed-out pin, corroded terminal, or spread terminal causing an open at the connector interface
• Open fuse, failed fusible link, or open feed path supplying the “D” actuator supply circuit (design varies by vehicle)
• Faulty relay or power distribution fault upstream of the “D” supply (where the circuit is relay-controlled)
• Open ground path for the actuator or the supply circuit’s return path that makes the module interpret the feed as open (varies by circuit design)
• Internal open within the actuator or load connected to supply voltage “D” (open coil, open internal connection)
• Control module pin/terminal damage or internal driver/supply fault affecting the monitored “D” supply circuit (confirm only after wiring checks)

Diagnosis Steps

Tools that help include a scan tool with live data and DTC freeze-frame access, a digital multimeter, wiring diagrams/service information for your exact vehicle, and basic back-probing tools. A test light can be useful for quick load checks where appropriate. If available, use a breakout lead set to avoid terminal damage during probing.

1. Confirm P2673 is active. Record freeze-frame data and note any companion powertrain codes that could point to a shared power distribution issue. Clear codes and see if P2673 resets immediately (key-on) or only under certain conditions.
2. Identify what “Actuator Supply Voltage ‘D’” feeds on the specific vehicle using service information. This label can represent a dedicated fused supply, a switched relay output, or a shared supply to multiple actuators depending on platform.
3. Perform a thorough visual inspection of the “D” supply circuit path: fuse/relay block, harness routing, connectors at the actuator(s) and control module, and any inline connectors. Look specifically for unplugged connectors, abrasion, recent repairs, or pinched wiring.
4. Check the relevant fuses/fusible links feeding the circuit. If a fuse is open, do not replace it repeatedly without finding the cause; however, for a Circuit/Open code, focus on identifying why the feed is absent (open path, disconnected connector, or failed power distribution component).
5. Key-on, engine-off: verify presence of supply voltage at the actuator-side connector on the “D” feed pin(s) per the wiring diagram. If voltage is missing, work upstream point-by-point (connector to connector) to locate where voltage is lost.
6. If voltage is present at the upstream power distribution point but missing at the actuator connector, perform a continuity test of the “D” feed wire end-to-end with the circuit powered down (and modules isolated as directed by service information). An open reading indicates a break, backed-out terminal, or disconnected intermediate connector.
7. Perform a wiggle test while monitoring live data/PID(s) related to actuator supply voltage (if available) and/or monitoring the circuit with a meter. Manipulate the harness near connectors, bend points, and areas of prior repair to reproduce the open. Log the event if the scan tool supports recording.
8. Inspect terminals closely: look for spread terminals, corrosion, overheated plastic, or terminals not centered/locked. Perform a gentle pin-drag/tension check (per best practice) and verify terminal retention; repair or replace terminals/housings as needed.
9. Where design includes a ground/return associated with the supply, perform voltage-drop testing on the ground path under load (use an appropriate load method for the circuit). Excessive drop or an unstable reading can cause the module to interpret an effective open or loss of supply at the actuator.
10. Check the actuator/load itself for an internal open (with power off). Measure resistance/continuity per service information and compare for plausibility across similar actuators if the system has multiple identical loads. If the actuator is internally open, the supply monitor may detect abnormal circuit behavior depending on design.
11. If all wiring, terminals, fuses/relays, and the actuator test good, verify control module connector integrity (water intrusion, pin fit, pushed pins). Only after external causes are eliminated, consider module-side fault or configuration/software issues, following service information for confirmation steps.

Professional tip: Treat P2673 primarily as an open-path problem: prioritize connector seating, terminal fit, and harness continuity before suspecting the actuator or module. When the fault is intermittent, capturing a live-data log during a controlled wiggle test often pinpoints the exact harness segment or connector where the supply “drops out,” preventing unnecessary parts replacement.

Possible Fixes & Repair Costs

Repair cost for P2673 varies widely because the same “Actuator Supply Voltage D” circuit/open condition can be caused by anything from a loose connector to a harness repair or control-module issue. Total cost depends on accurate diagnosis, parts required, labor time, and circuit access.

• Repair/replace damaged wiring: Restore continuity in the Actuator Supply Voltage “D” feed circuit where an open, broken conductor, or chafed section is found.
• Clean and secure connectors: Address loose, backed-out, or corroded terminals; correct poor pin fit and ensure connectors are fully seated and locked.
• Repair power/ground distribution issue: Correct an open in the related supply path (such as a failed fuse link, open splice, or damaged junction point) as confirmed by testing.
• Replace the affected actuator: Only if testing shows the actuator or its internal feed path is open and the external wiring/connector checks good.
• Replace/repair terminal pins: Replace spread terminals, damaged seals causing contamination, or terminals that fail a tension/retention check.
• Control module repair/replacement: Consider only after verifying the circuit from module to load is intact and the module’s driver/supply output is not providing the expected feed due to an internal open.

Can I Still Drive With P2673?

Sometimes the vehicle may still drive, but P2673 indicates an open in an actuator supply circuit, which can cause reduced power, harsh/abnormal shifting, limited functionality, or stalling/no-start depending on which actuator uses Supply Voltage “D” (varies by vehicle). If you notice stalling, no-start, severe drivability changes, reduced-power messages, or any steering/brake warning indicators, do not continue driving—have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

What Happens If You Ignore P2673?

Ignoring P2673 can lead to recurring warning lights, worsening drivability, and repeated limp/limited operating modes if the actuator supply circuit continues to open under vibration or heat. The underlying open circuit can also create intermittent faults that are harder to diagnose later, and it may disable the function controlled by the affected actuator, increasing the risk of unexpected performance changes.

Related Actuator Supply Codes

Compare nearby actuator supply trouble codes with similar definitions, fault patterns, and diagnostic paths.

• P2685 – Actuator Supply Voltage "G" Circuit/Open
• P2681 – Actuator Supply Voltage "F" Circuit/Open
• P2677 – Actuator Supply Voltage "E" Circuit/Open
• P2689 – Actuator Supply Voltage "H" Circuit/Open
• P0657 – Actuator Supply Voltage “A” Circuit/Open
• P2686 – Actuator Supply Voltage "G" Circuit Low

Key Takeaways

• P2673 is a Circuit/Open fault: Focus diagnostics on opens, poor connections, terminal fit issues, and broken conductors in Actuator Supply Voltage “D”.
• Wiring and connectors come first: Most verified root causes are harness/connector related rather than immediate component failure.
• Which actuator is involved varies by vehicle: Use service information to identify what “Supply Voltage D” powers and where it is routed.
• Test before replacing parts: Confirm continuity, connector integrity, and voltage-drop results to locate the open precisely.
• Intermittent opens are common: Movement/heat can make the circuit fail only at certain times; capture data and perform wiggle testing.

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P2673

• Vehicles with multiple actuator supply rails: Systems that label separate actuator feeds (A/B/C/D) are more likely to set supply-specific codes.
• Vehicles with dense engine-bay harness routing: Tight packaging increases the chance of harness strain, abrasion, and connector stress.
• Vehicles used in high-vibration conditions: Frequent rough-road operation can aggravate poor pin fit or partially broken conductors.
• Vehicles exposed to heat cycling: Repeated heating/cooling can loosen terminals and harden insulation near hot components.
• Vehicles with prior wiring repairs: Splices, aftermarket connections, or previous collision repairs can introduce opens if not sealed and supported correctly.
• Vehicles with underbody exposure: Moisture and debris exposure can lead to terminal corrosion and connector issues in lower harness runs.
• High-mileage vehicles: Aging connectors, brittle wiring, and terminal fretting can increase the likelihood of an open circuit condition.

FAQ

Does P2673 mean the actuator is bad?

No. P2673 only indicates the module detected an open circuit condition in the Actuator Supply Voltage “D” circuit. The cause could be a broken wire, loose connector, corroded terminal, or an internal open in the actuator. Testing is required to confirm the failed point.

What does “Supply Voltage D” refer to?

“Supply Voltage D” is a labeled power feed used to power one or more actuators, and the exact component(s) and routing vary by vehicle. Service information is required to identify which actuator(s) are on that feed and where the splice points, connectors, and protections are located.

Can a blown fuse cause P2673?

Yes, if the fuse (or fuse link) is part of the Actuator Supply Voltage “D” feed path. However, replacing a fuse without finding why the circuit opened (or why a fuse failed) can result in repeated faults. Verify continuity and inspect the circuit for damage before and after replacing protections.

Why does the code come and go?

An intermittent open is common: a partially broken conductor, poor terminal tension, or a connector that is not fully seated can momentarily lose contact under vibration, temperature changes, or engine movement. Live-data logging and a careful wiggle test can help reproduce and pinpoint the failure location.

What should I check first if I want to avoid unnecessary parts replacement?

Start with visual and physical checks of the wiring and connectors associated with the Actuator Supply Voltage “D” circuit: confirm connectors are fully seated, look for backed-out pins and corrosion, and inspect the harness for rubbing or stretching. Then confirm the open with continuity and voltage-drop testing before replacing any actuator or module.

Always confirm the specific actuator(s) and circuit path for “Actuator Supply Voltage D” using the correct service information for the vehicle you are working on.