P017E: Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor - Open Circuit / Loose Contact
2 vehicles · 1 makes
Most Reported On
P017E is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor - Open Circuit / Loose Contact.” The engine control module has lost the cylinder head temperature sensor signal entirely - the circuit reads open or the contact is intermittent. The ECM cannot determine head temperature and substitutes a fail-safe value, usually with maximum fan operation and a coolant warning. On the Audi 4.0T V8 (TSB 2062951) this comes from corrosion or contact damage inside coolant temperature sender G407 after water intrusion past a failed O-ring. This code is most commonly reported on 2020-2021 Audi RS Q8, and 2020-2021 Audi SQ8.
Common Causes
Diagnostic Tools
This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P017E.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.
- Read & clear engine (P) codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
Handheld scanner covering the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop
Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:
- Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
- Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
- Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.
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FAQ
What does P017E mean?
P017E stands for "Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor - Open Circuit / Loose Contact." The engine control module has lost the cylinder head temperature sensor signal entirely - the circuit reads open or the contact is intermittent. The ECM cannot determine head temperature and substitutes a fail-safe value, usually with maximum fan operation and a coolant warning. On the Audi 4.0T V8 (TSB 2062951) this comes from corrosion or contact damage inside coolant temperature sender G407 after water intrusion past a failed O-ring.
What are the most common causes of P017E?
The most common causes of P017E are: Corroded or damaged contacts inside the G407 coolant temperature sender following moisture ingress (Audi TSB 2062951), Loose, backed-out, or unseated sensor connector, Broken or chafed wire between the sensor and ECM, Internally open sensor element. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P017E?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.
Which vehicles are affected by P017E?
Au7o has documented P017E across 2 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Audi.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.