Pinpoint Test 2: The Engine Overheats
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PINPOINT TEST 2: THE ENGINE OVERHEATS - HYBRID
Normal Operation
The engine cooling system functions to maintain engine temperatures during operation. Correct coolant flow through the engine, radiator and remainder of cooling system passages and components is essential to maintaining a correct engine temperature.Engine coolant flows primarily from the engine to the radiator circuit and back to the coolant pump. From the coolant pump, coolant is sent through the engine block and cylinder heads. A separate circuit from the engine also feeds the heater core with coolant. The coolant pump is operated by engine rotation through a pulley which is driven by a drive belt to circulate the coolant. The coolant thermostat is a control valve actuated by coolant temperature. When the thermostat is closed, coolant flow bypasses the radiator circuit and returns to the coolant pump. When the thermostat is opened, coolant is allowed to flow through the radiator circuit in order to transfer engine generated heat to the outside air.Engine overheating generally occurs when there is a disruption in the ability to control either coolant flow at the proper rate, the inability to transfer heat from the engine through the coolant (including low coolant), or an inability to transfer engine generated heat to the outside air through the radiator.For vehicle/engine specific information, see - Engine Cooling Description And Operation.
- DTC P0217 (Engine Coolant Over Temperature Condition)
- DTC P1285 (Cylinder Head Over Temperature Condition) Indicates an engine overheat condition was sensed by the cylinder head temperature (CHT) sensor.
- DTC P1299 (Cylinder Head Over Temperature Protection Active) Indicates an engine overheat condition was detected by the cylinder head temperature (CHT) sensor. An failure mode effect management (FMEM) strategy called fail-safe cooling was activated to cool the engine.
Possible Causes
- Low coolant level
- External engine coolant leak
- Airlock in system
- Pressure relief cap installation
- Restricted airflow through the A/C condenser/radiator
- Internal engine coolant leak
- Coolant condition/concentration
- Accessory drive components
- Non-OEM engine enhancement components
- Electric cooling fan
- Engine coolant temperature indicator system (gauge)
- Cylinder head temperature (CHT) sensor (if equipped)
- Heater core
- Coolant pump
- Coolant flow restriction
Diagnostic Procedure
WARNING:Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
