P0217 on RAM: How to Diagnose & Fix
Engine Overtemperature Condition
1 RAM model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $250-$700 repair
P0217 on RAM by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The concentric (belt-driven) water pump on 6.7L Cummins trucks can leak coolant and suffer bearing failure. NHTSA recall 17V562000 covered 2013-2017 Ram 2500/3500 and cab-chassis trucks whose water pump lacked a vent hole, allowing coolant to leak onto hot engine components and create a fire risk. Separately, owners report the pump bearing seizing and throwing the serpentine belt, one at just 32,000 miles while towing, leaving the truck without cooling or charging. Symptoms include coolant weeping from the weep hole, whining/grinding from the pump, and overheating.
Common Symptoms
- Coolant leak / weeping from water pump weep hole
- Whining or grinding from the front of the engine
- Overheating
- Thrown or shredded serpentine belt
- Low coolant warning
- Sweet coolant smell
How to Fix
Check the VIN against recall 17V562000 (repair is free at a Ram dealer for affected trucks). For out-of-warranty failures, replace with the updated vented water pump (Cummins service PN 5473057 supersedes earlier numbers) and inspect the serpentine belt, tensioner, and fan hub while access is open. Address any coolant weeping promptly to avoid belt loss and overheating.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Mopar 68414058AB updated 6.7L water pump with seal
2013-2018 Ram 2500 6.7L VIN L as explicitly listed; supersedes 68414058AA and includes seals. Check T51 VIN eligibility before buying.
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Sources for this issue (3)
P0217 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0217 mean on a RAM?
P0217 stands for "Engine Overtemperature Condition." This code sets when the engine control module detects that the engine has exceeded its safe operating temperature, meaning the engine is overheating based on the coolant temperature sensor reading. Because excessive heat can warp the cylinder head, blow the head gasket, or seize the engine, the computer flags this condition and may reduce power to protect the engine. It generally indicates a real cooling system problem rather than just a sensor glitch, though a faulty sensor can occasionally cause a false reading. An overheating engine should be stopped as soon as it is safe to avoid serious damage. On RAM it is documented across 1 model: 2500.
What are the most common causes of P0217?
The most common causes of P0217 are: Low coolant level or a leak in the cooling system, Stuck-closed thermostat, Failed water pump, Faulty radiator cooling fan or fan circuit, Clogged or blocked radiator, Faulty coolant temperature sensor giving a false high reading, Head gasket failure or combustion gases in the coolant, Air pocket in the cooling system after service. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0217 on a RAM?
Published repair estimates on RAM range from $250 to $700 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0217 on a different make?
View P0217 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.