What Does P0517 Mean?
The battery temperature sensor circuit is producing a voltage reading above the expected maximum threshold. For a typical NTC thermistor, a high voltage reading corresponds to the PCM interpreting an excessively low battery temperature. The PCM may increase charging voltage to compensate, which could lead to battery overcharging with potential electrolyte boiling and reduced battery life. The driver may notice a sulfur smell from the battery or see electrolyte residue on the battery case.
Common Causes
30%
Open circuit in the battery temperature sensor wiring
30%
Failed battery temperature sensor with open internal element
20%
Disconnected or loose sensor connector
12%
Broken wire in the sensor circuit from vibration or battery service
8%
Poor ground connection at the sensor return circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Monitor the battery temperature sensor PID — if it reads an unreasonably low temperature (e.g., -40°F) regardless of actual conditions, the circuit is open.
2
Inspect the sensor connector — verify it is fully seated, the latch is intact, and the terminals are clean. This connector is often disturbed during battery service.
3
Disconnect the sensor and jumper the signal and ground pins at the PCM-side connector with a known resistor (e.g., 10k ohms) — if the PID reads a reasonable temperature, the harness-to-PCM path is good.
4
Check continuity of the signal and ground wires from the sensor connector to the PCM connector — an open reading confirms a wiring break.
5
Monitor charging voltage — if it is consistently above 14.8V in warm conditions, the PCM is overcharging due to the false cold-temperature reading.
Estimated Repair Cost
$20 - $150
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The battery temperature sensor circuit is producing a voltage reading above the expected maximum threshold. For a typical NTC thermistor, a high voltage reading corresponds to the PCM interpreting an excessively low battery temperature. The PCM may increase charging voltage to compensate, which coul...
The most common cause of P0517 (Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit High) is: Open circuit in the battery temperature sensor wiring
Typical repair costs for P0517 range from $20 to $150, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This is more concerning than the low-circuit code because the PCM may overcharge the battery, which can cause electrolyte boiling, battery swelling, and in extreme cases, battery venting of flammable hydrogen gas. Check the battery for signs of overcharging (bulging case, excessive heat, sulfur smell) and repair promptly.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0517 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Charging System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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