What it means
The HV battery temperature sensor K reports a circuit low fault. Cell-group temperature monitoring impaired on this channel.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
The HV battery temperature sensor K provides a signal used by the control module to monitor battery temperature and manage charging. This code sets when the sensor K circuit signal falls below the expected range, often because it is shorted to ground or the sensor has an internal short.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Signal wire shorted to ground
- Internal sensor short
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
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
- Record freeze-frame data and compare live sensor K data with nearby battery temperatures for an abnormally low reading.
- With the vehicle powered down as specified by the manufacturer, inspect the sensor K connector for corrosion, bent pins, contamination, or poor fit.
- Inspect accessible sensor K signal wiring for crushed insulation, a short to ground, or contact with grounded metal.
- Test the sensor K signal circuit for a ground short and check terminal contact quality using the manufacturer's procedure.
- If the harness and connector pass, test sensor K for an internal short against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure the sensor K connector if contact is poor.
- Repair sensor K signal wiring shorted to ground.
- Replace corroded or damaged connector terminals.
- Replace sensor K if it fails the specified electrical test.
Can I keep driving?
A falsely low sensor K signal can cause reduced hybrid power or charging limits. Drive only as needed and gently, and stop if power drops substantially or a battery warning appears.
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.