Fault code P0217 is called “Engine Overtemp Condition” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0217
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code. Error P0217 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly from model to model.
The PCM uses input signals from the coolant temperature sensor (ECT), which sends readings to the control module. The control module processes the data and if the temperature exceeds a certain limit, a fault code will be stored in memory.
The temperature limit is typically 240-250°F, after which, in addition to the stored code, the overheat light on the instrument panel will illuminate. If this light appears, the engine must be shut down as soon as possible to avoid damage to the engine.
If the PCM cannot effectively return the engine temperature to an acceptable level within a certain period of time. Code P0217 will be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate.
The fault can be described as an overheating condition, i.e. the vehicle engine is overheating and should be shut down as soon as possible.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0217 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a malfunction).
- Reduced engine power.
- Low coolant level.
- Coolant leakage is causing an acrid odor.
- Steam or smoke may be coming out of the engine compartment.
- Loud boiling sounds from the engine compartment.
- Disabling the air conditioning system.
- Shut down the engine to prevent serious damage.
The P0217 error is very serious because overheating of the engine can lead to complete engine failure. If this code is detected, it is recommended that the cause of the malfunction be corrected as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0217 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Low coolant level due to a leak in the cooling system.
- Faulty coolant temperature sensor.
- Thermostat is stuck closed or defective.
- Faulty cooling system fan or fan engagement clutch.
- Worn or damaged electrical wiring.
- Clogged radiator tubes or other cooling system components.
- Faulty water pump.
- Sometimes faulty PCM is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0217
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0217:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P0217 appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the fault appears again.
- If the error code appears again, inspect the cooling system for leaks.
- Visually inspect the electrical wiring and connectors related to the cooling system.
- Check the operation of the thermostat and water pump.
- Test the cooling system for unobstructed fluid flow.
- If there are no defects, check the PCM itself and its program part.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The diagnosis of error P0217 must be started by checking the coolant level when the engine is cold. It is not possible to check the coolant level on a hot or overheated engine.
If a small amount of coolant is found in the system, check for leaks and repair them if necessary. It is also worth checking and replacing the thermostat before filling the cooling system. Then start the engine and make sure it doesn’t overheat.
Additional testing
If the coolant level is normal, check the radiator for any restrictions that might be obstructing air flow. Make sure that all plastic panels that direct air flow to the radiator are in place.
Check the operation of the cooling fans or for abnormal noise indicating bearing failure. Inspect the inside of the radiator, if possible, look for dirt and debris buildup that may be restricting coolant flow. If there is contamination, the radiator should be flushed or replaced.
When there are no visible problems and the car continues to overheat, feel the radiator top hose. If it’s cold, the water pump impeller may be damaged or broken, resulting in no flow.
If, after all the checks, you still have problems with overheating and coolant leaking from the system, combustion gases may be leaking into the cooling system. If this is the case, you will need to check the cooling system for combustion gas leaks.
Sometimes when code P0217 is set, the vehicle engine does not overheat. In this case, check the coolant temperature sensor, most likely it is faulty.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0217 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Dodge
- Ford (Escape, Focus, Kuga)
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Isuzu
- Mitsubishi (Pajero)
- Nissan (Altima, Sentra)
- Opel (Astra)
- Peugeot (308)
- Renault
- GAZelle (Business, Sobol)
- LADA (Granta, Kalina, Largus, Niva, Priora, Vesta)
- MAZ
- VAZ (2114)
- ZAZ (Chance)
Fault code P0217 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0011, P0420, P0430, P0710, P0731, P1574, P2192.
