Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
The P0516 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit Low. This is a low severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $50 - $200 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P0516?
- Check Engine Light on
- Charging system voltage too high for conditions
- Battery overcharging symptoms
- Possible battery swelling
What Causes P0516? (Most Likely First)
- Short to ground in battery temperature sensor wiring Very High
- Failed battery temperature sensor (reads low/shorted) High
- Water intrusion in sensor connector Moderate
- Damaged wiring near battery acid or corrosion Moderate
Can I Still Drive with P0516?
Yes, but fix soon. P0516 is rated low severity. It is not an immediate stop-driving fault, but it will not clear itself — book the repair rather than ignoring the light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does circuit low mean for P0516?
Circuit low means the ECM is seeing voltage on the battery temperature sensor circuit that is below the expected minimum. This makes the ECM think the battery is very hot, causing it to increase charging voltage, which can overcharge the battery.
Can an overcharged battery be dangerous?
Yes. Overcharging a battery causes excessive gassing, electrolyte loss, and heat buildup. In severe cases, the battery can swell, crack, or leak acid. Lead-acid batteries can also produce hydrogen gas, which is explosive.
How do I know if my battery is being overcharged?
Signs of overcharging include the battery feeling hot to the touch, a strong sulfur or rotten egg smell near the battery, visible swelling of the battery case, or corroded battery terminals. Measure charging voltage; it should be 13.5-14.7V at normal temperature.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0516?
-
Read battery temperature sensor value; an extremely low or hot reading when the battery is actually cool confirms the issue
-
Disconnect the sensor and check for a short to ground on the signal wire
-
Inspect sensor wiring for corrosion from battery acid exposure
-
Measure sensor resistance and compare to the temperature chart; a very low reading indicates an internal short
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P0516?
- 2008-2018 Ford Explorer
- 2010-2020 GMC Terrain
- 2009-2019 Toyota Highlander
- 2011-2020 Nissan Rogue
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