AutoCodes – MINI – P173B MINI

P173B MINI Code - CAN Engine Coolant Temperature Invalid

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P173B MINI indicates CAN Engine Coolant Temperature Invalid.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 28,756
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 14, 2020
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Code P173B MINI Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code P173B MINI - CAN Engine Coolant Temperature Invalid - AutoCodes.com
P173B MINI Code - CAN Engine Coolant Temperature Invalid

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P173B MINI?

  • Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P173B MINI?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P173B MINI code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P173B MINI code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P173B MINI code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P173B MINI Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P173B in a MINI related to engine coolant temperature?

The common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, engine overheating or running too cold, and potential engine performance issues.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P173B indicating an invalid engine coolant temperature in a MINI?

Possible causes may include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a problem with the wiring or connectors related to the sensor, or issues with the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P173B related to an invalid engine coolant temperature in my MINI?

You can start by checking the engine coolant temperature sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage or loose connections, and using an OBDII scanner to read the live data and confirm the issue.

4. Can driving with OBDII code P173B indicating an invalid engine coolant temperature cause further damage to my MINI?

Continued driving with this code present can potentially lead to engine overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, and other performance issues, so it's best to address the problem promptly.

5. How can I reset OBDII code P173B in my MINI after repairing the issue with the engine coolant temperature?

You can typically reset the code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the car's battery for a few minutes to clear the stored fault code.

6. Are there any DIY repair tips for addressing OBDII code P173B related to an invalid engine coolant temperature in a MINI?

DIY enthusiasts can attempt to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor themselves if they have the necessary tools and skills, following the manufacturer's guidelines.

7. Will OBDII code P173B prevent my MINI from passing an emissions test?

Yes, having this code stored in the vehicle's computer may cause it to fail an emissions test, so it's important to address the issue before undergoing testing.

8. How much can I expect to pay for professional repairs related to OBDII code P173B in a MINI?

The cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or more for parts and labor at a repair shop.

9. Can a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor trigger other OBDII codes along with P173B in a MINI?

Yes, a faulty sensor can sometimes trigger related codes such as P0116 (Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance) or P0117 (Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input).

10. Is it safe to continue driving my MINI with OBDII code P173B related to an invalid engine coolant temperature?

It's not recommended to drive the vehicle for an extended period with this issue, as it can lead to potential engine damage or other complications.

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