Only relevant on vehicles fitted with an electronically controlled (heated) thermostat, common on several German marques. The control voltage in the thermostat heater circuit is reading too high.
Is It Safe to Drive With a P0599 Code?
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Drive With Caution
Depending on where the thermostat sticks, the engine may overheat or run too cool. Watch the temperature gauge and get it checked soon.
Common Symptoms of a P0599 Fault
P0599 Symptoms at a Glance
Engine slow to reach operating temperature, or overheating
Possible Causes of P0599
A P0599 code can be triggered by faults across several systems. Identifying the exact root cause requires proper diagnostic equipment and live data — not just reading the code.
Common Causes of P0599
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Heater Element Burned Out
The internal heating element inside the thermostat has failed.
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Wiring Chafe or Short
Harness insulation worn through against a hot component.
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Coolant Ingress at Connector
A leaking housing lets coolant reach the electrical pins.
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PCM Driver Fault
The control module's internal driver for the circuit has failed.
Why we don't list the exact part: A P0599 code tells you what's happening but not why. Replacing parts without diagnosis is the most common way drivers waste money. A proper diagnosis identifies the specific cause first.
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Causing Your P0599 — 1st cause free, full report £1.99
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P0599 and Your MOT
A stored P0599 fault code will cause your car to fail its MOT due to the illuminated engine management light. Get the fault diagnosed and repaired, then have the code cleared before booking your test.
Related Fault Codes
P0500 fault code
P0505 fault code
P0599 — thermostat heater control circuit high — requires proper diagnosis before any parts are replaced. A Find Your Problem Now → gives you the most likely specific cause for your exact vehicle, UK repair cost and MOT risk instantly.