P0598 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
Thermostat Heater Control Circuit Low
1 Dodge model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $100-$800 repair
P0598 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)
P0598 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 P0598 mean on a Dodge?
P0598 stands for "Thermostat Heater Control Circuit Low." This code applies to engines with an electronically controlled (heated) thermostat and means the Powertrain Control Module detected an abnormally low voltage in the thermostat heater control circuit. The heater element lets the computer fine-tune coolant temperature for efficiency and emissions by opening the thermostat sooner under certain conditions. P0598 sets when the control or feedback circuit reads lower than expected (often a short to ground or loss of supply). It is found on makes that use heated thermostats, including several European makes (BMW, Mercedes, VW/Audi) and GM small engines such as those in the Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic and Aveo, and it usually has little effect on driving. On Dodge it is documented across 1 model: Caliber.
What are the most common causes of P0598?
The most common causes of P0598 are: Faulty electronically controlled (map-controlled) thermostat, Short to ground in the heater control wiring, Corroded or loose thermostat connector, Open or damaged wiring in the control circuit, Low coolant level overheating the thermostat heater, Blown fuse or poor power supply to the circuit, Faulty PCM control driver. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0598 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.