OBD-II fault code

P0C71: Hybrid/EV Battery Temperature Sensor D/E Correlation

What it means

The signals of the HV battery temperature sensors D and E do not correlate within the calibrated tolerance.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

The HV battery control system checks the relationship between temperature sensor D and sensor E. This code sets when those two readings differ beyond the calibrated tolerance, which can cause protective limits on battery use.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Faulty battery temperature sensor D or E
  2. Damaged wiring or poor connection in a sensor circuit

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

  1. Use a hybrid-capable scan tool to save freeze-frame data and compare live readings for sensors D and E against the other pack temperatures.
  2. After safely powering down the HV system, inspect the D and E sensor wiring and connectors for corrosion, loose fit, damaged pins, or chafing.
  3. Check whether either sensor's reading is implausible or changes erratically while the other pack readings remain steady.
  4. Test the D and E sensor circuits for shorts, opens, and poor connections according to the vehicle wiring diagram and manufacturer's procedure.
  5. If wiring is intact, test sensors D and E individually to the manufacturer's specification and replace the one that fails.

Common fixes

  • Reseat or repair a damaged sensor D or E connector.
  • Repair an open, shorted, or chafed wire in the D/E sensor circuits.
  • Replace the faulty sensor D or E identified by testing.
  • Clear the code and verify D and E readings behave plausibly under the manufacturer's check.

Can I keep driving?

A D/E temperature mismatch can lead to reduced power or charging restrictions as the vehicle protects the HV battery. Keep trips short and gentle until diagnosed, and stop safely if the vehicle enters limp mode.

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.

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