P017A code meaning
Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor A Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P01xx codes Check engine light
What P017A means
The cylinder head temperature sensor A is an NTC thermistor that measures the temperature of the cylinder head metal or of the coolant in the head. Some Ford engines use it instead of a coolant temperature sensor and calculate a coolant value from it; VW group V8 gasoline engines use it as sender G407. CARB requires such sensors to be monitored like the coolant sensor. P017A is the general circuit fault without telling low from high. No manufacturer document using exactly this code was found: VW uses P017B/P017C/P017E for its sensor, and Ford's summaries list its own codes. Ford's published summaries still use its own codes P1289/P1290 for this sensor (fault below 0.244 V or above 4.96 V for 5 s). The description rests on CARB and component information. On a sensor fault the control module typically uses a modelled temperature and runs the radiator fan.
P017A at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P017A
- Check engine light on
- Coolant temperature warning or wrong gauge reading
- Radiator fan runs loud or constantly
- Cold-start problems possible
Common causes of P017A
- Most likelyWiring or connector open or corroded
- PossibleSensor faulty (moisture in the housing)
- Less likelyEngine control module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Cylinder head temperature sensorSensor wiringCooling system
What each part of P017A means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 1 | Area: fuel and air metering. |
| 7A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P017A and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P017A
What does P017A mean?
P017A means "Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor A Circuit". The cylinder head temperature sensor A is an NTC thermistor that measures the temperature of the cylinder head metal or of the coolant in the head. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P017A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P017A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P017A fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P017A is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P017A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P017A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.