Drove the summer in my 2012 countryman with the top open and not using the climate control. Recently the check engine light came on - P0597 "Thermostat Heater Control Circuit/Open". Did some research and found that the thermostat housing needed to be replaced. So I went out and I bought the thermostat housing and the new connection adapter. Looked forward to another interesting project on my Mini.

The day after my purchases, the weather turns cold and I start using the heater in the car. Within five minutes the check engine light went out. I checked to see if the code was still stored and it was. I cleared it, so far so good.

Trying to make a decision whether I should take back the thermostat housing or not. I feel for the mini owner that spends the $750 and get this thermostat replaced at the dealership when it does not need to be done.

 

I had mine replaced under warranty in September. At that time the dealer had 20 on the waiting list to replace. They are known to fail. I would replace it.