What it means
The engine coolant flow control valve reports a position sensor circuit condition. Coolant routing between engine and radiator branches cannot be commanded as expected.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
A position sensor in the coolant flow control valve tells the module where the valve is while it routes coolant between engine and radiator branches. This code sets when the position-sensor circuit is faulty, so the module may not be able to verify the valve's position.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Position sensor failed
- Wiring or connector fault
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Engine temperature may fluctuate or run higher than usual
- Cabin heat may be weak or inconsistent
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and live coolant temperature and valve-position data to see whether the position reading was missing, erratic, or inconsistent with the command.
- With the engine cool, inspect the valve position-sensor connector and wiring for looseness, corrosion, water, or damage.
- Command the valve through its range with a scan tool if supported and compare commanded movement with the reported position.
- Check the sensor signal and its circuit connections while operating the valve, looking for dropouts or an implausible reading.
- Test the position sensor and wiring against the manufacturer's procedure before replacing the valve assembly.
Common fixes
- Reseat or clean the position-sensor connector and repair damaged wiring.
- Repair corroded or loose sensor-circuit terminals.
- Replace the failed position sensor if it is separately serviceable and testing confirms failure.
- Replace the valve assembly if its integrated sensor is faulty and cannot be serviced separately.
Can I keep driving?
Drive only while the temperature remains normal and check the gauge often, since the module may not know the valve's actual position. Stop if the engine overheats or a temperature warning appears to prevent engine damage.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.