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DTC codes / P0Bxx · Hybrid propulsion / P0BDE

P0BDEDrive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor E Circuit High

P0BDE indicates that the inverter's temperature sensor E circuit is reporting an abnormally high signal voltage to the vehicle's control module. The computer has detected a voltage that exceeds the expected range for the current operating conditions, which usually points to an open circuit, a faulty sensor, or a wiring problem rather than an actual overheating event.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light or service vehicle soon message, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Reduced power or limp mode if the inverter derates to protect itself from perceived overheating
  • Inconsistent or erratic temperature readings on a scan tool, sometimes jumping or sticking at a high value
  • In rare cases, a burning smell or visible damage to the inverter or its wiring if the fault is accompanied by a real overheat
  • Intermittent warning light activation, especially over bumps or in wet conditions, if the fault is a loose connection

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Open or high-resistance wiring in the sensor E circuit, such as a broken wire or corroded connector
  2. Faulty inverter temperature sensor E, reading high or failing open
  3. Poor electrical connection at the sensor or control module, including loose pins or water intrusion
  4. Damaged or chafed harness causing an intermittent short to voltage or open circuit
  5. Internal fault in the inverter assembly affecting the sensor circuit or its signal processing
  6. Control module software or hardware issue misinterpreting the sensor signal (less common)

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Connect a scan tool and record the freeze-frame data for P0BDE, noting the sensor E voltage and temperature readings to confirm the fault is active.
  2. Visually inspect the inverter temperature sensor E, its connector, and the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose pins, repairing as needed.
  3. Measure the resistance of the sensor E circuit at the sensor connector and compare it to the manufacturer's specification for the current temperature.
  4. Check for continuity and voltage drops along the signal and ground circuits between the sensor and the control module to rule out open or high-resistance wires.
  5. If the sensor tests out of range, replace the inverter temperature sensor E and clear the code to see if it returns.
  6. If the wiring and sensor are good, test the control module's internal circuitry or consult service information for module reprogramming or replacement.
  7. After repairs, perform a road test with a scan tool monitoring sensor E data to verify the code does not reset and the readings are normal.

When the sensor lies about overheating

  • A high signal voltage on a temperature sensor circuit almost always means an open circuit or a sensor that has failed open, not that the inverter is actually overheating.
  • Technicians often replace the inverter assembly when the real problem is a chafed wire in the harness, so always perform a voltage drop test on the signal circuit before condemning expensive components.
  • Intermittent P0BDE codes that appear only in wet weather often trace to water intrusion in a connector, which can corrode pins and cause a high-resistance signal without any visible damage.
  • Some vehicles use a shared reference voltage for multiple sensors, so a short in another sensor's circuit can pull down the reference and set P0BDE along with other codes.
  • The code can be set by a faulty control module that misreads a correct sensor signal, but this is rare and should only be suspected after all wiring and sensor tests pass.

Can I keep driving with P0BDE?

You can usually continue driving to a repair shop if the only symptom is the warning light and the vehicle drives normally, but avoid heavy acceleration or sustained high-speed driving because a genuine overheating condition could damage the inverter. If the vehicle enters limp mode or you notice a burning smell, stop safely and have it towed.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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