Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The circuit for the Battery Temperature Sensor is registering a high temperature.
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code is applicable to all OBD-II equipped vehicles, but is more commonly found in certain Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mitsubishi, and Toyota vehicles.
Although it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
The Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) is typically located near the battery or inside the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). It converts the temperature of the air surrounding the battery into an electrical signal for the PCM.
The PCM uses this voltage signal to determine the amount of voltage the battery should receive during the charging process, based on the localized temperatures. This code is triggered if the input from the BTS sensor does not match the normal engine operating conditions stored in the PCM’s memory, even for a brief moment. It also checks the voltage signal from the BTS sensor during the initial Key On phase.
Code P0517 is set when the voltage at the sensor remains above a certain level (usually over 4.8V) for an extended period of time. This code is typically associated with an electrical circuit issue.
The troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, type of BTS sensor, and wire colors. An example of a battery temperature sensor is shown in the image below:
What is the severity of this DTC?
In these cases, the severity is considered to be not severe. Since they are electrical failures, the PCM can compensate adequately for them.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Some symptoms of a P0517 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
The causes for this P0517 code may include:
What are some P0517 troubleshooting steps?
A good starting point is to check for any technical service bulletins (TSB) related to your vehicle. There may be a known issue with a known fix provided by the manufacturer, which can save you time and money during the diagnosis process.
Next, locate the battery temperature sensor on your vehicle. It is usually located near the battery or inside the PCM. Once found, visually inspect the connector and wiring for any signs of scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connector and carefully examine the terminals inside for any signs of burning or corrosion. If needed, clean the terminals using electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush. After cleaning, let them dry and apply electrical grease to ensure proper contact.
If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from the memory and check if the P0517 code returns. If it does not, then the issue was most likely related to the connections.
If the P0517 code does return, further testing of the BTS sensor and its associated circuits is necessary. With the Key Off, disconnect the electrical connector at the BTS sensor. Connect a Digital Voltmeter’s black lead to the ground terminal of the BTS sensor wiring harness connector. Connect the red lead of the Digital Voltmeter to the signal terminal of the BTS sensor wiring harness connector. Turn the Key On with the Engine Off and check the manufacturer’s specifications; the voltmeter should read 5 volts. If it does not, repair the signal or ground wire, or replace the PCM.
If the previous test passed and you continue to receive a P0517 code, it is likely that the BTS sensor has failed. However, a failed PCM cannot be ruled out until the BTS sensor has been replaced. If unsure, it is recommended to seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician. PCMs must be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle for correct installation.
