Is it safe to drive with this code?

In most cases, the vehicle may be driven for short distances without immediate danger, though the battery management system may not optimise charging correctly. Extended driving with this fault can potentially lead to battery overcharging or undercharging, which may reduce battery life or cause electrical issues. Refer to our general disclaimer and have the fault diagnosed promptly.

Whether this code affects an MOT depends on whether the engine management light is illuminated at the time of the test—see our disclaimer for full details. In many vehicles, P0515 will trigger the warning lamp, which may lead to an MOT failure under the emissions and warning-light checks.

Roughly how much does it cost to fix?

Diagnostic time typically ranges in the low three-figure band at many garages. If the issue is simply corroded connectors or damaged wiring, repair costs may stay in the low two-figure to low three-figure range. Replacing the battery temperature sensor itself often falls into the low three-figure band including parts and labour, though costs can vary significantly between independent workshops and main dealers. If the fault lies with the engine control module, expenses may rise into the mid or high three-figure range, depending on whether reprogramming or replacement is needed.

Does this code mean my battery needs replacing?

Not necessarily. The code relates to the sensor circuit rather than the battery's condition, though excessive battery corrosion can sometimes trigger the fault. A technician may inspect the battery for corrosion or other issues during diagnosis, but replacing the battery is only needed if testing shows it has deteriorated independently of the sensor fault.

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← All fault codes | Electrical & Sensors

P0515

Powertrain

Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit

The engine control module has detected a voltage reading from the battery temperature sensor circuit that falls outside the expected range, which may indicate a fault in the sensor or its wiring.

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ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P0515. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.

Recommended next steps

Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.

What does P0515 mean?

P0515 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit.

This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.

About Electrical & Sensors codes

Codes in the Electrical & Sensors category.

P0515 is one of 4,010 codes in this category. Browse all Electrical & Sensors codes →

What we know about P0515 specifically

We record the SAE J2012 standardised definition and the system this code belongs to, but we have not yet published detailed driver-reported symptoms, common causes, or step-by-step diagnostic guidance for P0515.

Rather than invent that information by generating generic content from a template, we leave it out. For specific guidance, the most reliable sources are:

•your vehicle's own service manual or manufacturer-specific technical bulletins
•a qualified mechanic with a manufacturer-level diagnostic tool
•a marque specialist familiar with your make and model

Codes nearby

Codes adjacent to P0515 in the P-code series. Many fault codes appear together with their neighbours because they relate to the same circuit or component.

P0512 Starter Request Circuit

P0513 Incorrect Immobilizer Key

P0514 Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

P0516 Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit Low

P0517 Battery Temperature Sensor Circuit High

P0518 Idle Air Control Circuit Intermittent

Other Electrical & Sensors codes

Other fault codes in the same system as P0515. The ones with detailed guides have plain-English explanations, symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

B1257

Air Temperature External Sensor Circuit Short To Ground Detailed guide

B1363

DBPT Circuit Short To Ground Detailed guide

B2100

Ignition Run/Start Input Circuit Performance Detailed guide

C2000

Steering Angle Sensor Not Calibrated Detailed guide

P0030

HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1) Detailed guide

P0031

Oxygen (A/F) Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1) Detailed guide

Spotted an issue or have something to add? Mechanics, technicians, and drivers who have first-hand experience with P0515 can submit a correction or expansion. We review every submission before publishing, mechanic submissions are prioritised.

Information only, not professional advice

The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →

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