OBD-II · Engine and powertrain (P)
P0217
Engine coolant over-temperature condition
What it means
The engine has overheated. Stop as soon as it is safe and switch off: continued driving can warp the cylinder head or blow the head gasket.
Symptoms
- temperature gauge in the red or warning light
- steam from under the bonnet
- reduced power (engine protection mode)
- heater blowing cold if the coolant is very low
Likely causes, most likely first
| No. | Cause |
|---|---|
| 01 | low coolant from a leak (hoses, water pump, radiator, expansion tank cap) |
| 02 | cooling fan not working |
| 03 | thermostat stuck closed |
| 04 | failed water pump (on some cars electric) |
| 05 | head gasket failure pushing gases into the coolant |
| 06 | radiator blocked inside or clogged outside |
What to check, step by step
- 01Stop and let the engine cool; never open the cap on a hot system
- 02Check the coolant level and look for leaks
- 03Check that the cooling fan runs when the engine is hot or when commanded with a scan tool
- 04Check thermostat and water pump operation (both radiator hoses should get hot)
- 05Pressure-test the cooling system and do a combustion gas (block) test for a head gasket leak