OBD-II Code C2217: Electric Power Steering Module Internal Failure

What Does C2217 Mean?

Code C2217 means the electric power steering (EPS) module has detected a non-recoverable internal circuit failure. As a safety precaution, the module completely shuts down power steering assist. This makes the car exceptionally difficult to steer, particularly when parking or driving at low speeds.

Technical definition: The official definition for C2217 is 'Electric Power Steering Module Internal'. This indicates the module failed its internal self-test. While this usually points to a true hardware failure, unstable voltage or poor ground connections can trigger a 'false positive' that the module misinterprets as an internal fault.

Can I Drive With C2217?

No — Do Not Drive. Do not drive the vehicle. This code signifies a critical failure in the electric power steering (EPS) system, resulting in a 100% loss of steering assist. The steering wheel becomes extremely heavy and difficult to turn, creating a severe safety hazard during low-speed or emergency maneuvers. Tow the vehicle for repair.

Common Causes

• Internal Failure of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) Rack (Very Common) — The electronic control module is integrated into the steering rack. This unit frequently fails due to internal component breakdown from heat, vibration, or age. Manufacturer TSBs authorize complete rack replacement for this code after external electrical checks pass.
• Low or Unstable System Voltage (Common) — The EPS module is highly sensitive to voltage drops. A weak battery, failing alternator, or corroded battery terminals provide unstable power, tricking the module into logging a false internal fault and shutting down.
• Poor Electrical Connection or Bad Ground (Common) — The EPS system requires a robust power and ground supply. Corroded chassis grounds or loose connectors increase resistance, starving the module of power and triggering C2217 even if the rack is perfectly fine.
• Water Intrusion at EPS Module Connectors (Common) — Mounted low on the chassis, the rack is vulnerable to water. On vehicles like the Ram ProMaster, cowl leaks drip directly onto the electronics. Water ingress shorts the internal circuit board.
• CAN Bus Communication Error (Less Common) — The EPS module constantly communicates with the PCM and ABS. A short in the CAN wiring disrupts this network, causing the EPS to enter a failsafe shutdown.
• Cracked Solder Joints on the EPS Control Board (Less Common) — A sharp impact, such as hitting a large pothole, cracks microscopic solder joints on the internal circuit board, creating an open circuit and an immediate internal failure code.
• Software Glitches or Outdated Calibration (Rare) — Overly sensitive software logic occasionally triggers false C2217 codes. However, TSBs note that if there is an active loss of steering assist, a software update will not fix the problem.

Symptoms

• Complete Loss of Power Steering — The steering wheel suddenly becomes extremely heavy and requires significant physical effort to turn.
• Service Electric Power Steering Warning Light — A 'Service Power Steering' message or a steering wheel icon with an exclamation mark illuminates on the dashboard.
• Intermittent Steering Assist Failure — Power steering fails, works again after restarting the vehicle, and fails again later. This strongly points to a developing electrical or ground issue.
• Clicking or Whining Noise from Steering Area — Unusual noises occur when turning the wheel, indicating the electric motor is struggling or a mechanical failure exists within the rack.
🎬 Watch: Fixing grinding and whining noises in Ram ProMaster steering

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this code.

Common Fixes & Costs

• Replace Electric Power Steering Rack Assembly — Parts: $1000-$2500, Labor: $400-$800, ~4 hr book time (Professional)
• Replace Weak or Dead Battery — Parts: $150-$350, Labor: $50-$100, ~0.8 hr book time (DIY)
• Repair Damaged Wiring or Clean Connectors — Parts: $10-$50, Labor: $150-$450, ~2 hr book time (Intermediate)
• Replace Alternator — Parts: $300-$800, Labor: $150-$350, ~1.8 hr book time (Intermediate)
• Replace Blown EPS Fuse — Parts: $5-$20, Labor: $0-$50, ~0.1 hr book time (DIY)

DIY vs Professional

• Replace Blown EPS Fuse — Beginner:
  Tools: Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
• Replace Weak or Dead Battery — Beginner:
  Tools: Socket set, terminal cleaner
• Repair Damaged Wiring or Clean Connectors — Beginner:
  Tools: Multimeter, wire strippers, crimpers, soldering iron, heat shrink, contact cleaner
• Replace Alternator — Beginner:
  Tools: Socket set, serpentine belt tool, multimeter
• Replace Electric Power Steering Rack Assembly — Beginner:
  Tools: Full professional socket/wrench set, ball joint separator, torque wrench, subframe support jacks, scan tool for programming

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide

When a used part is worth it: Never use a salvaged electric power steering rack for this repair. Stellantis EPS modules are VIN-locked; installing a used rack triggers a VIN mismatch error and disables the part, wasting all labor costs.

Donor quality checklist:

• Do not buy used. You must purchase a new OEM or high-quality remanufactured rack.

Decision logic:

• If The part is VIN-locked (standard on Stellantis vehicles) → Buy a new OEM or remanufactured part. Do not attempt to use a junkyard rack.
• If You want the repair to work correctly the first time → Purchase a new unit and have it professionally programmed via Proxy Alignment.

Warranty tradeoff: Used parts: 30-90 days (parts only). Aftermarket remanufactured: 1-year to limited lifetime. OEM new: 1-2 years, covering labor if installed by a dealer.

Worst-case if a used part fails: $800-$1500 in wasted labor to remove a failed or VIN-locked used part and install the correct new one.

What Happens If You Wait — Timeline

1. Immediate (First Occurrence): The 'Service Power Steering' warning light illuminates, and steering assist is completely lost. Code C2217 is set as active. (Added cost: $75-$250 for a mandatory tow to a repair facility.)
2. 1-7 Days (Attempting to Drive): Continued driving attempts cause extreme physical strain on the driver. If intermittent, unpredictable loss of assist while driving is possible. (Added cost: Potential damage to mechanical steering column components not designed for unassisted loads.)
3. 1-4 Weeks (Ignoring the Problem): The vehicle automatically fails state safety inspections. If the root cause was a slow electrical drain, the battery is completely dead. (Added cost: If a failing alternator was the root cause, ignoring it destroys the battery, adding $150-$350 to the repair bill.)
4. 4+ Weeks (Long-Term Inaction): If the root cause was water intrusion, corrosion spreads to other nearby components and wiring harnesses, complicating the eventual repair. (Added cost: Corrosion damage adds $200-$500 in diagnostic and wiring repair labor.)

Cost of Not Fixing It

• Immediate: Steering becomes extremely heavy, dramatically increasing the risk of an accident during low-speed or emergency maneuvers. (Added cost: Cost of an at-fault collision, insurance deductibles, and liability for property damage.)
• Short-Term: Driving without assist causes severe driver fatigue and damages mechanical steering column components not designed to handle unassisted loads. (Added cost: Cost of a tow service ($75-$250), which is mandatory since the vehicle is unsafe to drive.)
• Long-Term: The vehicle remains unsafe to operate and automatically fails state safety inspections. (Added cost: Complete loss of vehicle use.)

Diagnosis Steps

1. Confirm the Code and Check for TSBs
   Use a professional scan tool to confirm C2217 is active. Check for manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific VIN, as many exist for this code to guide the repair process.
   Tools: OBD-II Scanner (Chassis code capable) (Beginner)
2. Perform a Full Battery and Charging System Load Test
   Use a digital battery tester to perform a full load test. With the engine running, verify the alternator outputs >13.0V. A simple multimeter voltage check is insufficient; a true load test is required to rule out voltage drops.
   Tools: Multimeter, Digital Battery Load Tester (Beginner)
3. Inspect Fuses and All Ground Connections
   Check the high-amperage EPS fuses. Disassemble, wire-brush, and clean the main battery-to-chassis and engine-to-chassis ground connections. Poor grounds are the leading cause of false C2217 codes.
   Tools: Test Light or Multimeter, Socket Set, Wire Brush (Beginner)
4. Inspect Wiring and Connectors at the EPS Rack
   Visually inspect the wiring harness at the steering rack. Unplug the main connectors and look for green corrosion, bent pins, or water damage. Ensure connectors are fully seated upon reassembly.
   Tools: Flashlight, Mirror (Intermediate)
5. Verify Power, Ground, and Resistance at the Module
   Using a wiring diagram, check for battery voltage (>13.0V engine running) at the main power pin on the EPS connector. Check the ground pin's resistance to a clean chassis ground; it must be less than 1.0 Ohm. Higher resistance indicates a bad ground that must be repaired.
   Tools: High-Impedance Multimeter, Vehicle-Specific Wiring Diagram (Advanced)
6. [PRO TIP] Load Test the Power and Ground Circuits
   A circuit showing 12V on a multimeter can still fail under load. Connect a sealed-beam headlight between the power and ground pins at the EPS connector. If it glows brightly, the circuit can carry the necessary 50+ amps. If it is dim, high resistance exists in the wiring.
   Tools: Sealed-beam Headlight with test leads, Wiring Diagram (Advanced)
7. Advanced CAN Bus Network Analysis
   If U-codes are present, check CAN bus integrity. With the battery disconnected, measure resistance between CAN High and CAN Low at the OBD-II port; it should be ~60 Ohms. Use an oscilloscope to verify clean square waves on the network.
   Tools: Multimeter, Digital Oscilloscope (optional) (Professional)
8. Analyze Scan Tool Live Data
   Monitor live data PIDs from the PSCM. Watch 'PSCM Voltage,' 'Motor Current,' and 'Steering Angle.' Unstable voltage indicates a charging issue. Erratic torque sensor values point to an internal rack failure.
   Tools: Advanced Bi-Directional Scan Tool (Professional)
9. Confirm Rack Failure and Prepare for Replacement
   If the battery, alternator, grounds, wiring, and CAN network pass all tests, and the code returns immediately, the EPS Rack has failed internally. Replacement of the entire rack assembly is the only repair.
   Tools: All tools from previous steps (Advanced)

When This Code Triggers (Freeze-Frame Conditions)

• System Voltage: <11.5V or >15.5V (Occurs during engine start-up or due to a failing alternator. The EPS module is highly sensitive to voltage fluctuations and shuts down if power is unstable.)
• Vehicle Speed: 0-10 mph (The fault often triggers when the system is under maximum load during parking or low-speed maneuvers.)
• Module Status: Internal Self-Test Failed (Sets immediately at key-on if the module detects a permanent internal hardware or memory fault.)
• Event Trigger: Physical Shock (Triggers immediately after a significant physical impact, such as hitting a deep pothole, which cracks internal solder joints.)

Related Codes

• C2129 — Code C2129 ('Battery Voltage Below/Above Threshold') is a critical clue. If present with C2217, the voltage issue MUST be fixed first. A weak battery or bad alternator is the root cause, and the C2217 is merely a symptom.
• C15C1 — Code C15C1 ('EPS Mechanical Performance') indicates mechanical binding or excessive friction. If it appears with C2217, it confirms the rack assembly has a hard internal problem requiring replacement.
• C15DB — This 'Latch Active' code sets when the EPS module detects major DTCs multiple times, or if the ignition is cycled with the torque sensor unplugged. This code CANNOT be cleared, forcing a rack replacement.
• U0418 / U1447 — These CAN bus communication codes suggest the problem is in the vehicle's data network. A wiring issue or a fault in another module disrupts communication, causing the EPS to shut down as a precaution.

Climate & Environmental Factors

• Water and Humidity: Water intrusion is a primary cause of C2217. On Ram ProMasters, cowl designs allow rainwater to drip directly onto the steering rack's electrical connectors, causing shorts. Torn steering rack boots also allow moisture into the assembly.
• Cold Climates and Road Salt: Road salt creates a highly corrosive environment, accelerating the degradation of the EPS rack housing and electrical connectors, leading to connection failure or water ingress.

How to Talk to a Mechanic About This Code

Say this: "I have a 'Service Power Steering' light and a C2217 code. Before condemning the steering rack, I need you to perform a full load test of the battery and alternator, inspect the main EPS grounds for corrosion, and load test the power and ground circuits at the EPS module connector."

This signals you are aware of TSB S2319000005, which warns against unnecessary rack replacements. It forces the shop to rule out common electrical faults before proposing a multi-thousand-dollar repair.

Avoid saying:

• 'My power steering is out, can you fix it?'
• 'The code says the module is bad, so just replace the rack.'
• 'Do whatever you think is right.'

Questions to ask before authorizing the repair:

• What were the results of the battery load test and alternator output voltage while running?
• What was the resistance reading on the EPS module's ground circuit? Was it under 1.0 Ohm?
• Did the power and ground wires pass a load test, not just a multimeter voltage check?
• If you are recommending a rack replacement, what is the warranty on the part and your labor?
• Does the estimate include the mandatory wheel alignment and the 'Proxy Alignment' programming procedure?

Where to Take It: Dealer vs Independent vs Chain

• Dealer: A safe, but expensive, option. The dealer has the specific programming tools and latest TSBs required for this repair. If you want a guaranteed fix, go here.
  Best for: Vehicles still under factory or extended warranty., Complex cases where TSBs are critical and previous shops have failed., Ensuring the correct 'Proxy Alignment' procedure is done with the manufacturer's wiTECH tool.
  Downsides: Highest labor rate, typically $150-$250+ per hour., May be quick to replace the rack as per TSBs without exhausting all diagnostic avenues first. (Typical cost: +50% vs. baseline)
• Independent Shop: Recommended, with caution. Before committing, you must ask: 'Do you have a scan tool that can perform a Stellantis Proxy Alignment?' If they hesitate, go elsewhere.
  Best for: Out-of-warranty vehicles where cost is a major factor., Shops that specialize in diagnostics or specific vehicle makes.
  Downsides: Quality and diagnostic capability vary dramatically., May not have the expensive, brand-specific scan tools required for the mandatory 'Proxy Alignment'. (Typical cost: +0% vs. baseline)
• Chain Shop: AVOID for the full diagnosis and repair. This requires advanced electrical diagnosis and programming capabilities beyond the scope of most chain repair shops.
  Best for: Performing a battery and alternator test as a first diagnostic step.
  Downsides: Technician skill is highly variable., Will not have the advanced scan tools for programming a new steering rack., High pressure to sell parts leads to misdiagnosis. (Typical cost: -10% vs. baseline)

When to Walk Away From the Repair

If the total estimated repair cost for the C2217 code (typically $2,000-$3,300) exceeds 50% of your vehicle's current private-party market value, sell the vehicle as-is.

• Car worth $8000, fix is $3000: Borderline. The repair is nearly 40% of the car's value. If the rest of the vehicle is in excellent condition, it may be worth fixing. Get a second opinion.
• Car worth $18000, fix is $3000: Fix it. The repair cost is significant but well under the 50% threshold. The vehicle retains substantial value once repaired.
• Car worth $5000, fix is $2800: Walk away. The repair cost is over 55% of the vehicle's value. It is not economically sensible to proceed.

What Scan Tool You Need for This Code

Minimum: A scanner that reads Chassis (C) codes and views live data from the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM). A basic $20 engine-only code reader is useless.

A basic scanner cannot see the C2217 code. Proper diagnosis requires viewing live voltage, motor current, and steering angle data from the PSCM to determine if the fault is the rack or an external electrical issue.

Budget: Innova 1000 / BlueDriver Pro (~$100) — Reads and clears Chassis codes and views live data from the PSCM. Sufficient for initial diagnosis, but CANNOT perform the final programming needed after a rack replacement.

Mid-range: Foxwell NT510 Elite for Chrysler (~$180) — Offers full-system diagnostics, reads C-codes, and provides robust live data. It has bidirectional capabilities that include the 'Proxy Alignment' function for many Stellantis models.

Professional: Autel MaxiCOM MK808 / AlfaOBD with OBDLink MX+ (~$500-1200) — Provides full, professional-level bidirectional control. These tools reliably perform the mandatory 'Proxy Alignment' procedure after a new steering rack is installed.

Rent vs buy: You cannot rent a scanner capable of performing the proxy alignment. If you are a serious DIYer completing the entire repair, you must buy a mid-range or pro-level tool.

How to Clear the Code After You Fix It

1. Reconnect the battery if disconnected during repair.
2. Use a professional bi-directional scan tool to clear the C2217 code from the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM).
3. If the steering rack was replaced, perform the mandatory 'Proxy Configuration Alignment' procedure to program the new module.
4. Perform a final full-system code scan to ensure no new CAN bus communication codes are present.

Drive cycle (~10 minutes): Start the vehicle after clearing the code and performing the proxy alignment. The power steering warning light must extinguish immediately. Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to confirm assist is restored. Drive for 10 minutes, executing several tight turns, to verify the repair.

Readiness monitors affected: None. Emissions readiness monitors are not affected by chassis codes.

Watch out for:

• Clearing the code without fixing the root cause guarantees the code returns within seconds.
• Installing a new steering rack without performing the 'Proxy Alignment' leaves the new part completely non-functional.
• Installing a used steering rack from a junkyard triggers a permanent VIN mismatch error.

Will This Fail Emissions / State Inspection?

No — by itself this code doesn't fail OBD inspection (but it can keep readiness monitors from setting, which causes a separate fail).

• New York: Automatic Failure. The NYS safety inspection explicitly checks for power steering function. A warning light or heavy steering guarantees failure.
• Texas: Automatic Failure. The annual safety inspection includes checking steering components and operation.
• California: Automatic Failure. Technicians perform a visual and functional inspection; a lit power steering warning light fails the test.

Most Commonly Affected Vehicles

• Dodge Charger (2016-2023) — A very common failure. TSB #9003584 authorizes rack replacement for C2217. TSB 08-034-20 mentions a software update, but it will not fix a vehicle that already has no power assist.
• Ram 1500 (2013-2025) — Extremely common issue. TSB S2319000005 warns that many returned racks tested good, highlighting the need to check external electricals first.
• Chrysler 300 (2016-2023) — Shares the same platform and widespread EPS failure issue as the Dodge Charger. TSB #9003584 applies.
• Chrysler Pacifica (2017-2024) — Widespread issue leading to an NHTSA investigation. TSBs 19-007-25 and 9003584 confirm C2217 justifies rack replacement. Recall V53 for a bad battery ground on 2017-2019 models causes identical symptoms.
• Ram ProMaster (2022-2025) — Subject of NHTSA investigation PE23-015 for power steering failure, citing water intrusion into the EPS module's electrical connectors. TSBs S2519000012 and S2519000007 apply.
• Dodge Durango (2016-2023) — Shares EPS system issues with other Stellantis platforms. TSB #9003584 applies, and water intrusion from torn boots is a known cause.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee (2016-2021) — Often appears with communication code U1447 ('Implausible Data From EPS'). This combination strongly points towards an internal rack failure or a critical CAN bus problem.
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2014-2018) — While less prevalent than on Stellantis vehicles, C2217 occurs on GM trucks, frequently related to low voltage conditions from weak batteries or faulty grounds.

Manufacturer-Specific Notes

• Stellantis (Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, Jeep): TSBs (like #9003584 and 19-007-25) explicitly state that if code C2217 is present, replacement of the entire steering rack is the authorized repair after ruling out external electrical issues.
• Stellantis (Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, Jeep): TSB S2319000005 warns technicians that many EPS racks returned under warranty for C2217 had no problem, highlighting the high rate of misdiagnosis and the need to test the battery and wiring first.
• Stellantis (Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, Jeep): TSB 19-001-17 warns that cycling the ignition while the torque sensor harness is disconnected falsely sets code C2217 and a non-clearable C15DB code, forcing an unnecessary rack replacement.
• Stellantis (Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, Jeep): Software update TSBs (like 08-034-20) exist for EPS issues, but explicitly state the flash will not fix a vehicle where C2217 is active and there is a complete loss of steering assist.
• Ram: The NHTSA is actively investigating 2022-2023 Ram ProMaster vans for power steering failures under Preliminary Evaluation PE23-015, specifically citing water intrusion into the EPS module connectors.

Real Owner Stories

2017 Ram 1500 at 75,000 miles - The Easy Fix

The 'Service Power Steering' light illuminated immediately upon startup, and steering was extremely heavy. Code C2217 was active.

What they tried:

1. The owner assumed the expensive steering rack had failed.
2. Before ordering parts, they checked the 5-year-old original battery.
3. A load test at an auto parts store showed the battery failed with low cold cranking amps.

Outcome: Replaced the battery with a new H7 AGM battery for $250. The C2217 code cleared and did not return. Power steering function was fully restored.

Lesson: Always perform a professional load test on the battery before condemning the steering rack. The EPS module is extremely sensitive to low voltage during startup and sets a 'false positive' internal failure code.

2018 Dodge Charger at 60,000 miles - The Misdiagnosis

Power steering failed intermittently over several weeks, eventually failing completely with code C2217.

What they tried:

1. A local shop diagnosed a failed steering rack and replaced it with a remanufactured unit for $1,900.
2. The problem returned two days later.
3. The car was taken to a dealership, where a technician performed a wiring load test.

Outcome: The dealership found high resistance in the main ground wire from the EPS module to the chassis due to corrosion. After cleaning and securing the ground connection for $150, the problem was permanently solved. The original rack replacement was unnecessary.

Lesson: An intermittent failure that temporarily resolves after a restart points to an electrical connection issue, not a hard internal failure. Insist your mechanic load tests the power and ground circuits before replacing the rack.

2022 Ram ProMaster at 40,000 miles - The Unusual Cause

After a heavy rainstorm, steering assist was lost. Codes C2217 and U0131 ('Lost Communication with PSCM') were stored.

What they tried:

1. The owner inspected the main electrical connector on the steering rack.
2. The connector was visibly wet and showed early signs of green corrosion on the pins.

Outcome: Cleaning the connector restored function temporarily, but the code returned a week later because water had permanently damaged the internal board. The rack was replaced for $2,800. The owner installed an aftermarket cowl leak drip tray to prevent future water intrusion.

Lesson: On Ram ProMasters, water intrusion from a leaking windshield cowl is a known design flaw and a primary cause of C2217. Proactively sealing the cowl prevents this expensive failure.

How to Prevent This Code From Triggering

• Perform Regular Battery Terminal Cleaning (Every 12 months or with every oil change) — Corrosion on battery terminals increases resistance and causes voltage drops that trigger a false C2217 code.
• Inspect and Protect Undercarriage Electrical Connectors (Every 24 months, especially in wet or winter climates) — Periodically unplugging EPS connectors, inspecting for corrosion, and applying dielectric grease to the seals prevents moisture intrusion.
• Inspect Steering Rack Boots (Bellows) (During tire rotations or any undercar service) — Torn rubber boots allow water and debris to enter the steering rack, corroding internal components and electrical connections.
• Proactively Address Known Water Leaks (Ram ProMaster) (Once, as a preventative measure) — Installing an aftermarket drip shield or sealing the cowl seams prevents water from dripping directly onto the EPS rack, avoiding a near-certain failure.
• Ensure Battery Health (Test annually after 3 years of age) — A weak battery cannot supply the necessary voltage during low-speed maneuvers, causing the module to shut down. Regular load testing catches a failing battery early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive my car with code C2217?

No. This code means the power steering has failed completely. The steering becomes extremely heavy and hard to control, posing a severe safety risk. Tow the vehicle to a repair shop.

Why is the repair for C2217 so expensive?

The electronic control module is integrated into the mechanical steering rack, requiring the entire assembly to be replaced as one unit. The OEM part alone costs over $1,500. With labor, mandatory wheel alignment, and programming, total repair bills range from $2,000 to $3,300.

What is the most common misdiagnosis for C2217?

The most common misdiagnosis is condemning the expensive steering rack without testing the vehicle's electrical system. A weak battery, failing alternator, or poor ground connection causes a voltage drop that tricks the EPS module into setting a false C2217 code. Always perform a full battery load test first.

Can I just clear the C2217 code?

You can clear the code with a scan tool, but if the internal fault is active, it returns immediately upon the next self-test. If triggered by a temporary voltage drop, it might stay off, but you must still fix the underlying electrical issue.

Does a new steering rack need to be programmed?

Yes, a replacement EPS rack requires a 'proxy alignment' procedure using an advanced scan tool. This programs the new module to communicate correctly with the vehicle's other computers. Skipping this step leaves the new rack non-functional.

Can I use a used steering rack from a junkyard?

Never use a junkyard steering rack for this repair. Modern steering rack modules are VIN-locked to the original car. Installing a used part results in a 'VIN mismatch' error, rendering the part useless and wasting your money.

What does the suffix like -00 or -49 mean after C2217?

The two-digit suffix provides specific engineering data about the internal failure. For example, C2217-00 means 'Electric Power Steering Module Internal'. Regardless of the suffix, the module has condemned itself and requires replacement.

Could a bad wheel alignment cause code C2217?

No, a bad wheel alignment does not cause the C2217 fault code. However, a wheel alignment is a mandatory procedure after replacing the steering rack to ensure the vehicle drives straight.

Key Takeaways

• Code C2217 flags a critical internal failure in the electric power steering module, causing a 100% loss of steering assist and making the vehicle unsafe to drive.
• Replacing the entire electric steering rack assembly is the manufacturer-authorized repair for this code, costing between $1,500 and $3,300 at a repair shop.
• Always perform a load test on the battery and verify the EPS ground resistance is under 1.0 Ohm before replacing the rack to prevent a $2,000 misdiagnosis.
• Stellantis vehicles from 2013 to 2025 are highly susceptible to this failure, with multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) citing water intrusion and cracked solder joints as root causes.