DTC Confirmation Test (Overall Function Check - DTC P0217)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Nissan Sentra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Use the following test to check overall function of the coolant over-temperature enrichment protection check. During this test, DTC may not be confirmed.

Malfunction is detected when engine coolant temperature is excessively high under light engine load conditions. Possible causes are:

Cooling fan circuit open or shorted.
Defective cooling fan and/or fan motor.
Defective thermostat.
Incorrect ignition timing.
Defective Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.
Radiator plugged.
Blocked air passage.
Improper coolant mixture.

Allow engine to cool. Check coolant level in reservoir tank and radiator. If coolant level is low, perform DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE . If coolant level is okay, go to next step.
Check coolant mixture ratio. If coolant mixture ratio is not 45-55 percent, change coolant and go to step 4. If coolant mixture ratio is 45-55 percent, go to next step.
Ask customer if they have filled cooling system. If cooling system has been filled, perform DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE . If cooling system has not been filled, go to next step.
Start engine. Ensure A/C is turned off and compressor is not operating. If compressor is operating, repair A/C system. See appropriate MANUAL A/C HEATER SYSTEM in HEATING, VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING article. If compressor is not operating, go to next step.
Turn ignition off. Disconnect ECT sensor harness connector. See Figure. Connect a 150 ohm resistor between ECT sensor harness connector terminals. Start engine. If cooling fans operate, go to next step. If cooling fans do not operate, perform DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE .
Start engine and warm to normal operating temperature. Ensure coolant is flowing through radiator. Check for blocked radiator or condenser fins. Check for damaged grille or improper air dam installation. If problem exists, repair as necessary and retest system. If problem does not exist, go to next step.
Check operation of ECT sensor. See step 3 under DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE. Replace ECT sensor as necessary and retest system. If ECT sensor is okay, check ignition timing. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS article. Adjust, if necessary and retest system.