P0B97 code meaning
Hybrid/EV Battery Voltage Sense S Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P0Bxx codes Check engine light
What P0B97 means
With P0B97 the controller sees sense S pulled close to zero. In the 2012 two-mode trucks, where S is the nickel-metal hydride block 19, the battery pack control module only sets it when block 19 and block 20 are both below 2 V in 15 of 20 samples, Type B, with the 12 V system between 9 and 18 V. GM's lithium-ion packs work cell by cell: 0.2 V or less for 1.4 s in 2 s on the 2016 Volt and the 2019 controller, Type A, and under 0.20 V in 14 of 18 samples in the 16OBDG02 programme. The eAssist mild hybrid sets it below 1.4 V, 7 of 10 samples, Type B. An open sense line fault takes priority, so P0B97 points more to a short than to a broken lead.
P0B97 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 8 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0B97
- MIL and hybrid or EV warning message
- Restricted power, engine may run more often on hybrids
Common causes of P0B97
- Most likelySense lead S shorted to ground or to the next lower cell
- PossibleDefective channel S input on the monitoring board
- Less likelyCell or NiMH block on channel S actually discharged
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hv battery voltage sense sWiring harnessBms
What each part of P0B97 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| B | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| 97 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0B97 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 P0B97
What does P0B97 mean?
P0B97 means "Hybrid/EV Battery Voltage Sense S Circuit Low". With P0B97 the controller sees sense S pulled close to zero. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0B97?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0B97 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0B97 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0B97 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 P0B97 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 8 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0B97 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.