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Severity: High Code type: Manufacturer-specific (Jeep)

Jeep C2217 Code: Electric Power Steering Module Internal Fault

The electric power steering module found a fault inside itself and may reduce or cut steering assist.

At a glance

Severity: 4/5 – High4/5

Severity: High

Meaning
Electric Power Steering Module Internal Fault
System
Brakes, ABS & Chassis · Chassis
Safe to drive?
With caution
Typical repair cost
$50–$4,500
DIY difficulty
Professional only

Jeeps with electric power steering, such as the Cherokee KL and later Grand Cherokee models, have an electric motor and a control module built onto the steering gear. The module reads a torque sensor in the steering shaft, vehicle speed and battery voltage, then decides how much the motor should help. C2217, usually shown as C2217-00, means the module detected an internal fault it can't recover from, such as a failed memory check, a motor driver problem or an implausible internal signal. Depending on the fault, the system may keep partial assist, drop to a reduced mode or shut assist off completely. A software update fixes some cases where assist is still present, but on vehicles with no assist at all the rack or module is usually replaced.

How to read C2217

How to read C2217C12223174
  1. C Chassis
  2. 2 Generic (SAE)
  3. 2 Brakes, ABS & Chassis
  4. 17 Specific fault

Symptoms

  • Service Power Steering message or steering warning light
  • Steering suddenly heavy, especially at low speed and when parking
  • Assist varying or returning after an engine restart
  • Slight pull under hard acceleration on some front-wheel-drive-based models
  • Other modules logging lost communication with the steering module

Possible causes

Ranked by how often each cause is behind this code (editorial estimate).

  1. Internal failure in the EPS control module or motor driver 50%
  2. EPS software fault that a reflash can correct 18%
  3. Low system voltage from a weak battery, poor ground or charging fault 14%
  4. Torque sensor connector left unplugged or damaged during steering work 10%
  5. Water intrusion or corrosion at the EPS connectors 8%

Diagnosis step by step

Diagnostic flow: C22171Check whether assist works2Measure battery and charging voltage3Inspect the EPS connectors andgrounds4Check for a software update5Replace the steering gear andcalibrate

  1. Check whether assist works

    With the engine running, turn the wheel lock to lock while parked. If assist is completely missing with the code active, that's a hardware fault; if assist is present and the code is stored, a software update may be the fix.

    Tools: OBD-II scanner

  2. Measure battery and charging voltage

    EPS motors draw heavy current, and the module protects itself when voltage drops. Confirm about 12.6 volts at rest and roughly 13.5–14.7 volts running, and load-test an older battery.

    Tools: Multimeter

  3. Inspect the EPS connectors and grounds

    Check the high-current supply and ground connections at the steering gear and the smaller signal connectors, including the torque sensor plug. After steering or alignment work, a torque sensor connector left unplugged for one or two ignition cycles is enough to set C2217.

    Tools: Flashlight, Multimeter

  4. Check for a software update

    A dealer or well-equipped shop can see whether newer EPS software is available for your VIN. Updates have been released for this code on some Jeep models; the flash needs a stable power supply so the battery doesn't dip during programming.

    Tools: OBD-II scanner

  5. Replace the steering gear and calibrate

    If the code stays active with no assist, the module is typically serviced as part of the rack. After replacement, the steering angle sensor and module configuration must be set up with a scan tool, followed by a wheel alignment.

    Tools: Torque wrench, OBD-II scanner

Where the parts are

Charging system and control modules – C22171234567
Charging system and control modules
  1. 1Battery
  2. 2Alternator
  3. 3Engine computer (ECM)
  4. 4CAN bus
  5. 5Transmission
  6. 6Wheel speed sensor
  7. 7High-voltage battery

Repair options & costs

RepairDIY?Estimated cost
Reconnect or repair EPS connector, replace weak battery No $50–$300
EPS module software update No $100–$250
Remanufactured electric steering gear with calibration and alignment No $1,500–$2,800
New electric steering gear from the dealer No $2,800–$4,500

Rough US estimates for parts and labor; shop rates vary by region. Not a quote.

Emissions / smog test impact

Depends

C2217 has no effect on the emissions portion of a smog check. In states with a safety inspection, missing power steering assist or a steering warning light can fail the vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to drive with C2217?

Only if steering assist is still working normally. If the wheel is heavy, you're one surprise away from not being able to turn quickly enough, so arrange a tow or drive very slowly to a shop nearby.

Why did the code appear after an alignment?

If the torque sensor connector is unplugged during steering work and the key is cycled, the module can store C2217. Reconnecting it and clearing the code may be all that's needed.

Can I replace only the module?

On most Jeeps the module is part of the steering gear assembly and isn't sold separately, so the rack is replaced as a unit. Remanufactured racks are a cheaper alternative to new.

Will a new battery fix it?

Not if the module is truly faulty. A weak battery can cause reduced assist and voltage codes, though, so test it first; it's the cheapest thing to rule out.

Sources