The Coolant Temperature telltale on the instrument panel (I/P) cluster has the
ability to illuminate as a result of an engine over temperature condition (P0217)
or transaxle fluid over temperature condition (P0218). The powertrain control module
(PCM) will send a message to the I/P cluster over the Class II link to turn
the Coolant Temperature telltale ON if the engine coolant temperature (ECT) or transaxle
fluid temperature (TFT) exceeds the temperature calibration value listed under DTC
parameters.
DTC Parameters
DTC P0217 will set if:
| • | The ECT is greater than 118°C (244°F). |
| • | No other ECT sensor DTCs have been set. |
DTC P0218 will set if:
| • | The TFT is greater than 140°C (284°F). |
| • | No other TFT sensor DTCs have been set. |
DTC P0217 and P0218 diagnostics run continuously once the above conditions have
been met.
DTC P0217 and P0218 are type D DTCs.
Diagnostic Aids
Possible causes of DTC P0217:
| • | Cooling fan inoperative |
| • | Engine cooling system overheated condition (thermostat, low engine coolant
etc.) |
| • | Radiator or condenser air flow restricted |
| • | Air dam missing or loose |
| • | Overload due to trailer towing |
| • | ECT sensor leaking engine coolant into ECT sensor harness connector causing
elevated temperatures |
Possible causes of DTC P0218
| • | Transaxle fluid level low |
| • | Transaxle cooler or transaxle cooler lines restricted |
Refer to
Engine Controls Component Descriptions
for a Temperature versus Resistance
chart.
The PCM will command the A/C relay OFF if the temperature of the engine coolant
is greater than 118°C (244°F).
