Code
P0EF5
Generic
P — Powertrain
Drive Motor C Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
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UK: 10
EN: 20
RU: 12
AI status
Completed
Completed
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Causes
- Loose, corroded, or damaged connector at the drive motor C temperature sensor
- Chafed or broken wiring in the sensor harness causing intermittent contact
- High-resistance connection or poor ground
- Water intrusion or contamination in connector
- Failing temperature sensor (thermistor)
- Intermittent short to battery voltage or to ground
Symptoms
- Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or dashboard fault message illuminated
- Intermittent or flashing temperature readings for drive motor C in live data
- Possible reduced propulsion power or torque limit (limp mode) during fault
- Reduced regenerative braking or altered cooling/fan behavior
- Fault stores with intermittent/freezeframe data; may be hard to reproduce
What to check
- Read and record freeze frame and live data for drive motor C temperature during different driving conditions
- Scan for additional related codes (other motor temperature circuits, inverter faults, communication errors)
- Visually inspect sensor connector, pins, and harness along entire run for damage, corrosion, moisture, or rubbing points
- Wiggle harness and connectors while watching live data to reproduce intermittent behavior
- Check reference voltage/signal voltage and ground at the sensor connector with key on
- Measure resistance of the temperature sensor (with sensor disconnected) and compare to specification at ambient temperature
Signal parameters
- Sensor type: typically NTC thermistor (resistance decreases as temperature rises)
- Typical signal: sensor is read via pull-up/pull-down — expected signal voltage normally in the 0.5–4.5 V range depending on design
- Resistance guideline (varies by design): roughly 1–10 kΩ at ~20–25 °C (consult vehicle-specific spec)
- Open circuit: very high resistance or signal near supply/rail voltage depending on circuit
- Short to ground: signal near 0 V; short to battery: signal near battery voltage
Diagnostic algorithm
- Connect a capable scan tool. View live data for drive motor C temperature and log values while varying engine/drive conditions and while moving harness/connectors (wiggle test).
- Inspect the sensor connector and harness visually. Look for corrosion, bent pins, water, or burn damage. Repair or clean as required.
- With ignition on, back-probe the sensor connector. Verify correct reference voltage (if present), signal voltage behavior, and a good ground. Note intermittent changes while moving connector.
- With sensor disconnected, measure sensor element resistance at ambient temperature. Compare to vehicle manufacturer specification or expected NTC curve. If outside expected range, replace the sensor.
- Check continuity and resistance between the sensor connector and the drive/controller connector to find intermittent opens or high resistance. Wiggle harness during test to reproduce intermittent faults.
- If wiring and sensor test good, check for intermittent short to battery or ground (insulation faults).
- If all wiring and sensor are good and intermittent behavior persists, suspect internal controller/inverter fault. Consult manufacturer service information for internal diagnostics and repair/reprogramming options.
- After repairs, clear codes and perform a road test and durability run to confirm the fault does not return.
Likely causes
- Intermittent connector contact at sensor or controller
- Broken or partially severed conductor in harness (intermittent with movement or temperature)
- Corroded terminal(s) causing variable resistance
- Failed thermistor element inside motor/inverter assembly
- Intermittent internal fault in drive/controller module
Fault status
Status
Drive Motor C Temperature Sensor Circuit — Intermittent/Erratic. Stored freeze-frame/live data may show sporadic or fluctuating temperature values. MIL illuminated; possible limp-home mode or reduced system functionality.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.5-3.0 hours
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