OBD Guide

P05C5

Engine Coolant Pressure Sensor Circuit High

P05C5 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Engine Coolant Pressure Sensor Circuit High. Common causes: short circuit of the sensor signal wire to the reference voltage (+5v) or on-board network (+12v), internal pressure sensor failure (signal fixed at maximum). Estimated repair cost: $22–167.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$22–167 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light Is On
  • Pressure readings on the scanner are abnormally high or off the charts
  • The engine may overheat if the thermostat is stuck
  • The cooling system safety valve may trip
  • Emergency mode of engine operation with power limitation

Causes

  • Short circuit of the sensor signal wire to the reference voltage (+5V) or on-board network (+12V)
  • Internal pressure sensor failure (signal fixed at maximum)
  • Really high pressure in the cooling system (stuck thermostat, overheating)
  • Faulty expansion tank cap (does not release excess pressure)
  • Damage to wiring with short to power

How to Fix

  1. Immediately check the engine temperature - if there are signs of overheating, turn off the engine and allow to cool
  2. Connect a scanner and evaluate the coolant temperature and pressure readings in real time
  3. At normal temperature: check the sensor signal wire for short to power
  4. Check the reference voltage at the sensor connector (should be about 5V, no more)
  5. Connect a pressure gauge to the cooling system and compare the actual pressure with the scanner readings
  6. Replace the sensor if the pressure is normal and the signal is too high; check the thermostat and reservoir cap at really high pressure

Related codes

Error P05C5 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P05C5 code mean?

P05C5 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Engine Coolant Pressure Sensor Circuit High

What causes a P05C5 error code?

The most common causes of P05C5 include: Short circuit of the sensor signal wire to the reference voltage (+5V) or on-board network (+12V); Internal pressure sensor failure (signal fixed at maximum); Really high pressure in the cooling system (stuck thermostat, overheating); Faulty expansion tank cap (does not release excess pressure).

How do I fix a P05C5 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P05C5: Immediately check the engine temperature - if there are signs of overheating, turn off the engine and allow to cool. Connect a scanner and evaluate the coolant temperature and pressure readings in real time. At normal temperature: check the sensor signal wire for short to power. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P05C5?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P05C5?

The estimated repair cost for P05C5 is $22–167. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat