P1217 Possible Causes
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty cooling fan motor
- Cooling fan wiring harness is open or short-circuited
- Poor electrical connection in the cooling fan circuit
- Engine Control Module (ECM) programming
- Leaking radiator hose
- Leaking or clogged radiator
- Radiator cap
- Water pump leak or damage
How is Code P1217 Repaired?
Start by checking the “possible causes” listed above. Visually inspect the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
Technical Notes
The cooling system thermostat is the most likely cause of code P1217.
Possible Symptoms
- Engine light on (or engine warning light soon to come on)
- Engine overheating
P1217 Meaning
The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the cooling fan based on vehicle speed, engine coolant temperature, refrigerant pressure, and air conditioning operation signal. The control system has a 3-stage command [HIGH/LOW/OFF].
If the cooling fan or another component of the cooling system malfunctions, the engine coolant temperature increases. When the engine coolant temperature reaches an abnormally high temperature condition, a malfunction is indicated.