P0515Generic code

P0515 Code: Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit

The P0515 code means the computer found an electrical fault in the battery temperature sensor circuit. The main effect is less precise battery charging. A damaged or corroded connector is the most common cause, so start there.

Severity
Low
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$20 to $200
Difficulty
Medium
System
Computer and Outputs
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0515 code means

The computer adjusts the alternator charging voltage based on battery temperature: more voltage when it is cold and less when it is hot. Some vehicles measure that temperature with a dedicated sensor next to the battery or in the battery tray.

The sensor changes its resistance with temperature, and the computer reads the resulting voltage. A circuit fault, which is what the P0515 code reports, can come from the sensor, from the wiring or from the supply.

Without this data, the computer charges the battery at a fixed safe voltage. Over time the battery can be overcharged in summer or undercharged in winter, and its life gets shorter.

Always start with the simple things: the fuse, the relay and the connector. Then check the supply, the ground and the signal with the component plugged in (using back-probes), and finally the continuity of each wire all the way to the computer. Only replace the component if all of that checks out.

P0515 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Less precise battery charging.

Likely causes of the P0515 code

  1. Damaged or corroded connector. The most frequent cause.
  2. Wiring cut or shorted between the sensor and the computer.
  3. Failed sensor. Open or shorted inside.
  4. Missing supply reference. Check whether other sensors are also failing.
  5. Computer. Uncommon, so rule out everything above first.

How to diagnose the P0515 code step by step

  1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what you expect.
  2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water or loose pins.
  3. Check the supply and ground with the key on: the reference should be correct, with less than 0.1 V of voltage drop on the ground.
  4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and watch whether it changes with the condition.
  5. Do a wiggle test on the harness with the scan tool in graph mode.
  6. Check the continuity of each wire to the computer (under 1 ohm).

How to fix the P0515 code

  • Repair the connector or the wiring.
  • Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
  • Correct the real condition if there is one.
  • Clear the codes and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

  • Two-wire NTC thermistor with a 5 V reference.
  • These values are a general guide: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

On vehicles with an intelligent battery sensor (IBS), the temperature sensor is built into the negative battery terminal, so a circuit fault there can mean replacing the terminal assembly.

P0515 on GM

Common on GM vehicles.

P0515 on Dodge

Common on Dodge vehicles.

P0515 on Chrysler

Common on Chrysler vehicles.

Frequently asked questions about P0515

What does the P0515 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code that means the computer found an electrical fault in the battery temperature sensor circuit. The main effect is less precise battery charging.
Can I drive with a P0515 code?
Yes, with some caution. The vehicle drives normally, but the charging voltage is less accurate, so keep an eye on the battery over time.
Do I have to replace the sensor?
Only if the tests confirm it. The connector and the wiring fail just as often.
What does the battery temperature sensor do?
The computer adjusts the alternator charging voltage based on battery temperature: more voltage when it is cold and less when it is hot. Some vehicles measure that temperature with a dedicated sensor next to the battery or in the battery tray.
How much does it cost to fix P0515?
As a rough guide, between $20 and $200. A connector repair is at the low end, and a new sensor with labor is at the high end.
Will a P0515 code clear itself?
Only if the fault was temporary. A corroded connector or a damaged wire will bring the P0515 code back, so find the cause before you clear the code.
What is the most common cause of P0515?
A damaged or corroded connector. Wiring that is cut or shorted and a failed sensor come next.

Related codes

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