Engine overheating
P0217
Engine Coolant Over Temperature Condition
The engine has reached a temperature that can damage it.
Stop driving
Can I keep driving? No. Stop as soon as it's safe, and have the car checked before you drive it again. Driving an overheating engine can warp the cylinder head or seize the engine. Minutes matter.
Common causes
- Low coolant from a leak
- A failed water pump or thermostat
- A cooling fan that isn't running
- A blocked radiator
- A failed head gasket
Listed roughly from most to least likely. The same code can have different causes on different cars.
What to do
- Pull over when it's safe and switch the engine off.
- Let it cool for at least 30 minutes. Never open a hot radiator cap.
- Check the coolant level when it's cold. If it's low, there's a leak.
- Have it towed if it overheats again.
General guidance. Your owner's manual wins. If a red warning light is on or the car drives differently, stop safely and get help.
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