Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0C97 Hybrid/EV Battery Temperature Sensor L Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

P0C97 is the catch-all for battery temperature sensor L, used when the input misbehaves electrically but fits none of the low, high or erratic categories. No manufacturer publishes this exact code. GM's 2011 hybrid table counts L as temperature sensor 12 of sixteen, and its 2012 and later tables cover L only with P0C98 to P0C9B. Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV DTC list goes from sensor [10] (P0C93 to P0C95) straight to sensor [12] (P0CA9 onward), so it uses no L codes at all. CARB paragraph (e)(15.3.1) demands constant supervision of plausibility and circuit integrity for inputs like this. A pack controller that loses sensor L assumes a worst-case temperature for that section and reduces available power until the fault is repaired.

Likely causes

Connector fault between sensor L and the monitoring board
Thermistor L defective
Faulty measuring channel on the monitoring board

Symptoms

  • Hybrid or EV warning, possibly with check-engine lamp
  • Limited battery power

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–2,500
Time1–5 h

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

Parts involved

hv battery temp sensor lwiring harnessbms

Related codes

P0C98P0C99P0C9AP0C9BP0C92P0CA8

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