Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0B16 Hybrid/EV Battery Pack Voltage Sense B Circuit Low

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P0B16 sets when pack voltage measurement B reports a value below its plausible minimum, usually an electrical cause such as a sense lead shorted to ground or an open input that pulls the reading down. No manufacturer documents this code publicly. GM uses the same logic on channel A: on its BECM P0ABC sets when the pack-side voltage drops below 24 V for 1.6 s within a 2 s window, Type A, one trip. CARB requires out-of-range monitoring of battery voltage sensors in hybrid storage systems. The opposite fault is P0B17, implausible but in-range values are P0B15. Without a trustworthy pack voltage the controller may refuse to close the contactors or limit operation.

Likely causes

Sense lead of channel B shorted to ground
Fuse or resistor in the sense path open
Measurement input of the battery controller defective

Symptoms

  • MIL and hybrid/EV system warning on
  • Vehicle may not reach Ready or may shut down the high-voltage system
  • Battery power limited, reduced electric drive or assist

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€100–2,500
Time1–6 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

hv battery pack voltage sense bwiring harnessbms

Related codes

P0B14P0B15P0B17P0B18P0ABCP0B1B

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, law.cornell.edu.