What it means
The hybrid/EV battery temperature sensor F circuit signal is higher than expected.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Temperature sensor F monitors a part of the hybrid/EV battery, and its circuit carries the temperature signal to the control module. P0C36 sets when that signal rises above the expected electrical range. An open circuit or short to voltage can produce a high reading even when the battery itself is not hot.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open circuit in the sensor wiring
- Short to voltage in the sensor circuit
- Faulty temperature sensor
Symptoms
- EV/hybrid system warning light on
- Reduced power output or limp mode
- Charging may fail or be slowed
- Reduced electric range
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame and live data to see whether sensor F is fixed high or changes with battery temperature.
- Inspect sensor F's connector and harness for a loose plug, broken wire, corrosion, or damage that could leave the circuit open.
- Check the sensor F circuit for an open or short to voltage using the vehicle wiring diagram and manufacturer's procedure.
- Test sensor F and the circuit at the connector against the manufacturer's specifications.
- Repair the open, short, or connection fault, or replace sensor F if it fails testing, then confirm the reading is plausible.
Common fixes
- Secure the sensor F connector and repair damaged terminals.
- Repair an open or short-to-voltage condition in sensor F wiring.
- Replace sensor F if it fails the specified test.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid rapid charging and high-load driving until the high circuit reading is corrected, because the vehicle may restrict battery use and cannot rely on sensor F's temperature report. Stop safely if a battery temperature warning or reduced-power condition occurs.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.