P0C89 code meaning
Hybrid/EV Battery Temperature Sensor I Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P0Cxx codes Check engine light
What P0C89 means
P0C89 says sensor I delivers an electrically valid but implausible temperature. GM checks it against the average of the remaining sensors: the 2019 table 19OBDG02 fails it beyond 25 °C in 50 of 67 samples, Type B, two trips, and suspends the test while a low, high or communication fault is present; the 2016 Cadillac ELR table (16OBDG01) uses 20 °C. Bulletin 18-NA-342 calls it sensor 9 performance on the Volt and lists it among the codes cured by reprogramming the hybrid powertrain control module 2. Mitsubishi's 2018 Outlander PHEV treats it as rationality of channel [08], one check per drive after an hour parked, with a 13 °C limit held for 0.32 s. If a software update does not help, a misplaced or drifting thermistor is the likely cause.
P0C89 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0C89
- Check-engine or hybrid lamp, often after a long rest
- Battery power reduced
Common causes of P0C89
- Most likelyThermistor I drifted within its electrical range
- PossibleModule software setting the code falsely, fixed by reprogramming (GM Volt)
- PossibleSensor I displaced from its measuring point
- Less likelyReal local heating at the cell group of sensor I
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hv battery temp sensor iWiring harnessBms
What each part of P0C89 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| C | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| 89 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0C89 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 P0C89
What does P0C89 mean?
P0C89 means "Hybrid/EV Battery Temperature Sensor I Circuit Range/Performance". P0C89 says sensor I delivers an electrically valid but implausible temperature. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0C89?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0C89 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0C89 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0C89 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 P0C89 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0C89 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.