Description of the P0517 fault code.
OBD2 Error Codes

P0517 Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit High

26.05.2022 /

P0517 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0517 indicates the battery temperature sensor circuit is high.

What does the fault code mean P0517?

Trouble code P0517 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has received a high voltage signal from the battery temperature sensor. The engine control module (PCM) receives a voltage signal from the sensor to determine what voltage will be supplied to the battery while it is charging, given the current temperature conditions. DTC P0517 sets if this input does not correspond to normal parameters stored in the PCM memory, even for a short time, as indicated by this DTC. The voltage signal from the sensor is also analyzed to determine if it meets the standard values ​​when the ignition is initially turned on. Code P0517 occurs when the voltage at the sensor remains too high for an extended period of time (usually greater than 4,8 V).

Fault code P0517

Possible reasons

Some possible reasons for the P0517 trouble code:

  • Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) malfunction: If the sensor is not reporting the correct battery temperature or is not working correctly, it may cause a P0517 code to appear.
  • BTS Sensor Wiring or Connections: Problems with the wiring or connection of the battery temperature sensor can cause incorrect voltage signals, resulting in a P0517 code.
  • Malfunctioning PCM: If the PCM, the engine control module, is unable to correctly interpret data from the battery temperature sensor due to a malfunction in the PCM itself, this can also cause code P0517.
  • Power problems: Insufficient or unstable power supply to the battery temperature sensor may result in erroneous data, which in turn may cause the P0517 code to appear.
  • Defective battery: Battery malfunction or low battery may also cause this error code to appear.

These possible causes should be considered during the diagnostic process to determine the source of the problem.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0517?

Symptoms for a P0517 trouble code may vary depending on the specific problem and vehicle configuration, but some common symptoms that may indicate this problem are:

  • Check Engine Error Code Appears: In most cases, when the engine control module detects a problem with the battery temperature sensor and generates trouble code P0517, the Check Engine Light on the dashboard will turn on.
  • Vehicle speed control system malfunction: If a problem with battery temperature prevents the vehicle's speed control system from operating properly, it may result in erratic speed or other abnormal engine operating conditions.
  • Poor performance or efficiency of the battery charging system: Low or incorrect battery voltage due to incorrect temperature sensor data can result in poor battery charging, which may result in poor power system performance or engine starting failure.
  • Degraded fuel economy: Incorrect battery temperature data may affect the operation of the fuel management system, which in turn may result in poor fuel economy.

If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem.

How to diagnose a fault code P0517?

Diagnosis for DTC P0517 may include the following:

  1. Checking the connection and condition of the battery temperature sensor: Check the connection of the battery temperature sensor. Make sure the connectors are clean, intact and well connected. Check the wires for damage, corrosion or breaks.
  2. Checking the sensor resistance: Using a multimeter, measure the resistance of the battery temperature sensor at different temperatures. Compare the measured values ​​with the specifications provided by the manufacturer.
  3. Checking the voltage at the sensor: Using a multimeter, measure the voltage at the battery temperature sensor with the engine running. Make sure the voltage is within the normal range according to specifications.
  4. Checking the power and ground circuit: Check the power and ground circuit of the battery temperature sensor for signals and correct voltage. Make sure there are no breaks or corrosion on the wires and connectors.
  5. Checking the Engine Control Module (ECM): Run diagnostics on the ECM to ensure it is correctly interpreting data from the battery temperature sensor. This may include checking the ECM software for updates or possible glitches.
  6. Checking BTS signals and sensors: Make sure that the signals and data from the BTS (Battery Temperature Sensor) sensors are also correct and within the expected values.

If the problem cannot be identified after these steps, a more in-depth diagnosis may be required, including using professional equipment to scan and analyze vehicle data. If you are not experienced in performing such diagnostic work, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0517, the following errors may occur:

  • Misinterpretation of data: One common mistake is incorrect interpretation of data from the battery temperature sensor. This may lead to incorrect diagnosis and replacement of unnecessary components.
  • Skip other problems: Because the P0517 code is related to voltage at the battery temperature sensor, mechanics can sometimes miss other potential problems that could affect its performance. For example, problems with the power circuit or grounding can also cause this trouble code.
  • Incorrect power and ground circuit diagnosis: If you do not perform a full power and ground check, you may miss problems that could lead to a P0517 code.
  • Insufficient ECM diagnosis: Since the ECM (Engine Control Module) plays a key role in interpreting data from the battery temperature sensor, failure to properly diagnose this component may result in the cause of the problem being misidentified.
  • Faulty or uncalibrated instruments: Using faulty or uncalibrated diagnostic tools can also lead to errors in determining the cause of the P0517 code.

To prevent these errors, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's diagnostic recommendations and conduct a complete check of all components related to the charging system and battery temperature. If you do not have experience in diagnosing automotive systems, it is recommended that you contact an experienced auto mechanic or service center.

How serious is the fault code? P0517?

Trouble code P0517, which indicates a voltage problem with the battery temperature sensor, can be serious because it is related to the operation of the battery charging and monitoring system. Although not safety critical, it can cause the charging system to malfunction, which can ultimately lead to battery drain and engine starting problems.

If you ignore this code, then over time the following consequences are possible:

  1. Battery low: Insufficient or incorrect charging voltage may cause the battery to discharge, especially if the battery temperature is not controlled effectively.
  2. Problems with starting the engine: If the battery is discharged due to improper charging, it may cause difficulty starting the engine, especially on cold days or when using various electrical devices in the vehicle.
  3. Damage to electrical components: If the battery is not properly charged or has high voltage, it can damage the vehicle's electrical components, resulting in additional costs for repair or replacement.

So, although the P0517 code is not an emergency problem, it should be taken seriously and the cause diagnosed and corrected as soon as possible to avoid further problems with the vehicle's battery and electrical system.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0517?

Resolving DTC P0517 may require the following repair steps:

  1. Checking the battery temperature sensor: Start by checking the battery temperature sensor itself. Make sure it is properly connected and working properly. Replace the sensor if necessary.
  2. Checking electrical connections: Check the electrical connections related to the battery temperature sensor and the PCM. Make sure all contacts are clean, intact and connected correctly.
  3. Checking generator operation: Make sure the alternator is working properly and providing the correct charging voltage to the battery. If necessary, replace or repair the generator.
  4. Check PCM: In some cases, the cause may be due to a faulty PCM. Check the PCM for defects or software errors and, if necessary, replace it or perform a firmware update.
  5. Updating the software: Sometimes updating the PCM software can help resolve the P0517 code problem. Contact your dealer or authorized service center to perform this procedure.

After completing these steps, perform a thorough check to ensure that the P0517 trouble code no longer appears. If the problem persists, additional diagnostics or assistance from a qualified technician may be required.

What is P0517 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0517 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0517 is related to the engine management system (ECM) and is related to the battery temperature sensor. Depending on the specific make and model of the vehicle, the reasons for this code may vary. Below are some car brands with P0517 codes:

These are just general explanations, and specific causes and solutions may differ for each car brand. For accurate information, it is recommended to contact a dealer or service center that specializes in a specific car brand.

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