P0697 code meaning
Sensor Reference Voltage C Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P0697 means
The engine module feeds sensors from several regulated 5 V reference circuits; a short at one sensor pulls the whole circuit down, so all its sensors report at once – unplug them one by one to find the culprit. Which sensors hang on circuit C depends on the maker – pedal sensor 2 is common to all: GM 2016–2025 feeds only pedal sensor 2 from it, the Saab 9-4X also the MAP sensor, the Saab 9-5 2.0 L turbo also throttle, crankshaft and A/C pressure sensors, and Bentley's 2026 Bentayga V8 lists its own set. P0697 is the general code for circuit C. GM puts all faults into it: reference outside 4.875–5.125 V or jumping, 19 of 39 counts or 0.19 s, lamp in the first trip; GM Europe's 2.0 L turbo also uses P0698/P0699.
P0697 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0697
- Check engine light
- Several sensor codes at once (pedal, throttle, pressure)
- Electronic throttle limp mode, reduced power
- Possibly starting problems
Common causes of P0697
- Most likelyShort in the wire or sensor of a connected sensor
- PossibleChafing or water in harness or connector
- PossibleA connected sensor faulty internally
- Less likelyModule internal voltage regulator
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Sensor reference voltage circuitSensor wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0697 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| 97 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0697 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0697
What does P0697 mean?
P0697 means "Sensor Reference Voltage C Circuit/Open". The engine module feeds sensors from several regulated 5 V reference circuits; a short at one sensor pulls the whole circuit down, so all its sensors report at once – unplug them one by one to find the culprit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0697?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0697 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0697 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0697 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0697 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0697 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.