What is the solution for the Cruze P0597 fault code?
3 Answers
The solution for the Cruze P0597 fault code is to go to a 4S shop to clear it with a computer. The P0597 fault code applies to all car manufacturers and means the thermostat heater control circuit. This fault code indicates that the electronic control unit (ECU) has detected that the voltage of the thermostat heater control circuit is outside the calibrated normal range. The causes of the fault include the thermostat heater, its circuit, connectors, relays, or the electronic control module. Taking the Cruze 2018 320 Manual Pioneer Edition as an example: it is a compact 4-door 5-seater sedan under SAIC-GM Chevrolet, with a length, width, and height of 4666mm, 1807mm, and 1460mm respectively, a wheelbase of 2700mm, and equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Last time I encountered the P0597 trouble code on my Cruze, I spent quite some time troubleshooting and found it was an issue with the thermostat heater control circuit. This component manages engine temperature regulation and tends to throw errors when faulty. I recommend you first check the fuse in your car—the one in the fuse box corresponding to the thermal management system. If it's blown, replace it with a new one. Also, listen for the relay's clicking sound and inspect the wiring harness connectors for looseness or corrosion. If everything seems normal, you might need to directly measure the thermostat heater's resistance, which should be around 15-30 ohms. If all else fails, you may have to replace the entire thermostat assembly. The Cruze is known for having issues with this part—I replaced mine once and it cost a few hundred bucks. For safety, disconnect the negative battery terminal during troubleshooting to avoid triggering other false fault codes.
Having driven the Cruze for so many years, I've encountered the P0597 code several times. The core issue lies in the thermal management control circuit, with three key areas to inspect: fuses, relays, and wiring harnesses. Check the fuse box diagram in your user manual and use a test light or multimeter to measure the continuity of those wires—if the resistance is out of range, the heater is likely faulty. For the relay, unplug and replug it to listen for the clicking sound; if there's poor contact, sand the contacts with sandpaper. Severely corroded wires need to be cut and reconnected. Don't ignore this issue—it poses a high overheating risk, especially in winter. Cost-wise, it depends on your DIY skills: fixing it yourself only costs materials, but taking it to a repair shop for diagnosis and replacement will run you upwards of 600.
