P0597 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
Thermostat Heater Control Circuit Open
1 Dodge model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $100-$800 repair
P0597 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Calibers are prone to overheating from radiator fan failure, thermostat sticking, water pump failure, and radiator clogging. Same cooling system shared with Jeep Compass/Patriot (PM/MK platform). Fan relay failure is the most common single cause.
Common Symptoms
- Temperature gauge climbing above normal at idle
- A/C compressor disengaging from high temps
- Coolant leak
- Steam from engine bay
- CVT overheating simultaneously
How to Fix
Check fan relay first, then fan motor, thermostat, water pump, and radiator. Engine cooling and CVT cooling are interconnected - overheating engine can cause CVT overheating and vice versa.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 68053218AA five-pin mini relay
Fan-control relay branch only after the exact TIPM cavity/function and failed electrical test are confirmed Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2008-2012 Caliber; 2007 uses a different relay family and remains VIN/fuse-map confirmation only …
- Dorman 621-029 dual radiator cooling fan assembly without controller
Fan-motor/module branch after commanded-fan, power, ground and current-draw tests confirm the complete assembly is faulty Fitment: Manufacturer application for the Caliber platform; compare connector and A/C/fan configuration, especially…
- Mopar 55111016AC primary engine coolant thermostat
Thermostat branch only after temperature testing confirms a stuck thermostat rather than airflow, pump, radiator or combustion-gas trouble Fitment: Live fitment covers 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L/2.0L/2.4L; verify whether the repair also requ…
- Mopar 68046026AA engine water pump
Water-pump branch when pressure testing, bearing inspection or circulation testing confirms pump failure Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L, 2.0L and 2.4L including SRT-4; pump only, so check gasket/pulley requirement…
- Mopar 68004049AB engine cooling radiator
Radiator branch after flow, temperature-drop, pressure and external-fin inspection confirm restriction or leakage Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L/2.0L/2.4L across non-SRT trims; SRT-4 is not shown and remains exclu…
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0597 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 P0597 mean on a Dodge?
P0597 stands for "Thermostat Heater Control Circuit Open." P0597 is a cooling-system code indicating an open electrical circuit in the control for the heated (electronically controlled) engine thermostat. Many modern engines use a thermostat with a built-in heater element that the computer can energize to open the thermostat sooner for better temperature management and emissions. When the PCM commands that heater but detects no electrical continuity (an open circuit), it sets this code. It generally means the thermostat heater isn't being controlled, which can affect coolant temperature regulation, fuel economy, and emissions. On Dodge it is documented across 1 model: Caliber.
What are the most common causes of P0597?
The most common causes of P0597 are: Failed thermostat heater element or integrated control thermostat, Open or broken wiring to the thermostat heater circuit, Corroded, loose, or disconnected thermostat connector, Blown fuse or open in the heater power feed, Poor ground or control-circuit fault from the PCM, Damaged PCM driver for the heater (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0597 on a Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $100 to $800 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 P0597 on a different make?
View P0597 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.