What Is the P0597 Code?
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The “thermostat” used here refers to the thermostat within your vehicle’s engine. The thermostat controls flow of coolant through an engine, ensuring that it stays at the right operating temperature. Its connection with the powertrain control module (PCM) allows the PCM to use information from the thermostat to maintain the correct temperature within the vehicle’s engine. This code indicates that the feedback voltage of the thermostat is somehow outside of the norm, whether that means the voltage is zero or just simply outside of the normal range.
You may also be interested in P0599 Thermostat Heater Control Circuit High.
More About the P0597 Code
Your engine’s temperature and the way your PCM handles the temperature are both critical components of a well-functioning engine. A poorly functioning heater can change a wide variety of your engine’s processes, impacting how much coolant flows through the engine, managing the power available to the engine, and handling the impact of emissions.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0597 Code?
The first sign you should look for is, of course, the check engine light, which will come on when your engine registers this code. It’s also a good idea to check the engine temperature gauge, which may be showing an abnormally high or low reading consistently. You might also notice the radiator running its cooling fans consistently, even when they’re not needed. Finally, in some situations, you might notice your fuel efficiency going down.
What Are Some Causes of a P0597 Code?
The most common cause of the P0597 code is a faulty thermostat; if the thermostat simply isn’t working anymore and needs to be replaced, you’ll likely receive this code. You may also see issues with the thermostat wiring, whether because the wires were never quite correctly connected or because of issues with the wiring corroding or otherwise degrading. In very rare cases, it may be due to a faulty PCM, but this is not common.
How Serious Is the P0597 Code?
The P0597 code can be extremely serious. A lack of temperature knowledge leaves your vehicle more prone to overheating or, on the other hand, using too much coolant fluid and power, thereby reducing your fuel efficiency. If you’re experiencing a P0597 code, then it’s best to get it checked out as soon as possible, whether to avoid potentially permanent engine damage or just to improve your engine efficiency.
Can I Still Drive with a P0597 Code?
In many cases, your vehicle will physically be able to drive with a P0597 code. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to keep driving it around. If you’re experiencing issues leading to a P0597 code, then that means your vehicle is at high risk for overheating, which can seriously damage your engine and lead to a much more expensive fix with significantly more long-term damage. Instead of continuing to drive, seek help from a professional.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0597 Code?
The diagnostic process for a P0597 code can be very difficult. Most people don’t really know what to look for when it comes to issues with the thermostat, and you may not even know where to find this thermostat. Plus, the thermostat sits right next to the engine, and the engine is one of the most complex pieces of equipment on your vehicle. If you’re not well-versed in your vehicle’s make and model, then do not try to diagnose this problem yourself; let the experts handle it.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0597 Code?
The inspection process for the P0597 code can be just as difficult as the diagnosis. The thermostat can be difficult to identify, and in order to check whether it’s functioning at all, you’ll often need specialized equipment that you might not own. Instead of either trying to purchase this equipment or just going after it on your own, you should instead opt for help from an expert who will know how to do this process.
Need Additional Help with Your P0597 Code?
The P0597 code is one of the more impactful codes out there; if your thermostat isn’t functioning, there are many possible issues that can arise, and none of them are good for your vehicle, with some going so far as to negatively impact your vehicle in even more prominent ways. This is why it’s best to talk to a professional about the code.
The first step for finding a professional is to find a repair shop in your area. You can find thousands of repair shops all across the United States, all of them handling different problems, different types of vehicles, and even different makes and models. Use this shop locator to ensure that you’re finding a local expert who can help you with your issues.
Additionally, it may be a good idea to check out the KBB OBD-II database. It’s uncommon for vehicles to throw only a single code when they’re experiencing a problem, and understanding all the OBD-II codes you’re experiencing will help you understand what issues you’re going to see within your vehicle, making you a little more prepared for the repair shop.
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