Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The circuit controlling the thermostat heater is open.
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for the powertrain, which applies to all makes and models from 1996 onwards. However, the specific troubleshooting steps will vary depending on the vehicle.
The codes P0597, P0598, and P0599 all refer to an electronically controlled engine thermostat. These codes are generic and apply to all vehicles that use this type of thermostatic control. However, only a small number of manufacturers employ this system. Therefore, this article on trouble codes is essentially the same for all three codes.
The P0597 engine code indicates a fault in the system where the control voltage is absent. This system is primarily used in German manufactured vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Mini, Volkswagen, Opel, and Jaguar.
The electronically controlled thermostat consists of various temperature and load sensors, a computer program, and the control housing with a built-in thermostat.
Concept
By electronically controlling the coolant flow or engine temperature, fuel economy can be increased and emissions reduced during part throttle, while reducing the temperature under load can increase power.
Symptoms
The symptoms will vary depending on the position of the thermostat at the time of failure. However, it is unlikely that there will be any noticeable difference in the operation of the vehicle.
Potential Causes
Based on experience, the problem usually lies in a loose or corroded electrical connector, or the electrically operated thermostat itself is faulty. Occasionally, the Motronic (engine management) computer may fail, but this is the least likely cause.
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures for P0597 Code
This information should include the identification of the pins and their location, wire colors, pin values in volts at specific temperatures, and resistances. These values and the flow of diagnosis may vary depending on the manufacturer and engine size.
You will also need an infrared temperature probe and a volt/ohmmeter.
P0597 MINI Repair Video
We found this repair video for P0597 on YouTube. We are not affiliated with the producer of this video, but it may provide additional help if you are experiencing this DTC. The process is shown for a Mini vehicle, but it may be similar for other makes and models.
