Engine-Codes.com
Engine-Codes – Nissan – P0117 Nissan

P0117 Nissan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The P0117 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Nissan vehicles refers to the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect temperature readings to the ECM, Wiring Issues: There may be a problem with the wiring connecting the engine coolant temperature sensor to the ECM, leading to a low voltage signal, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the sensor's accuracy. 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
P0117 Nissan indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect temperature readings to the ECM, Wiring Issues: There may be a problem with the wiring connecting the engine coolant temperature sensor to the ECM, leading to a low voltage signal, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the sensor's accuracy.
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.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code P0117 Nissan Description

The P0117 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Nissan vehicles refers to the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low. This code indicates that the engine coolant temperature sensor is registering a temperature that is lower than expected, potentially due to a malfunction or a wiring issue. The engine coolant temperature sensor is a crucial component in the vehicle's engine management system, as it provides vital data to the engine control module (ECM) to help regulate fuel injection, ignition timing, and other engine functions. When the sensor detects a temperature that is too low, it can lead to a variety of performance issues and potential long-term damage if not addressed promptly.

OBDII Code P0117 Nissan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low
P0117 Nissan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

Common Causes of P0117 Nissan

  1. Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect temperature readings to the ECM.
  2. Wiring Issues: There may be a problem with the wiring connecting the engine coolant temperature sensor to the ECM, leading to a low voltage signal.
  3. Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the sensor's accuracy.
  4. Cooling System Malfunction: Issues with the thermostat, radiator, or water pump can impact the engine coolant temperature sensor's readings.
  5. ECM Malfunction: A rare possibility is that the ECM itself is faulty, causing incorrect temperature readings.

Symptoms of P0117 Nissan

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with this code is the illumination of the Check Engine Light on the vehicle's dashboard.
  2. Poor Fuel Economy: A malfunctioning engine coolant temperature sensor can lead to incorrect fuel mixture ratios, resulting in poor fuel efficiency.
  3. Engine Performance Issues: The engine may experience rough idling, stalling, or hesitation during acceleration due to inaccurate temperature readings.
  4. Overheating: In some cases, the engine coolant temperature sensor may fail to detect actual overheating, leading to potential engine overheating issues.
  5. Cooling Fan Operation: The cooling fan may not operate efficiently, leading to inadequate cooling of the engine.

How to Fix P0117 Nissan

  1. Diagnostic Testing: The first step in resolving this issue is to perform diagnostic testing to confirm the P0117 code and identify the root cause of the problem.
  2. Inspect Sensor and Wiring: Check the engine coolant temperature sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion. Replace the sensor if necessary.
  3. Check Coolant Levels: Ensure that the coolant levels are adequate and there are no air pockets in the cooling system.
  4. Repair Cooling System: If there are any issues with the cooling system components, such as the thermostat or water pump, repair or replace them as needed.
  5. Clear DTC and Test Drive: Once the repairs are completed, clear the DTC from the ECM's memory and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0117 Nissan

The typical repair costs for addressing the P0117 Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of repairs needed. On average, the cost of replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor and addressing wiring issues can range from $100 to $250, including parts and labor. However, additional costs may be incurred if there are underlying cooling system problems that need to be addressed. It's important to note that diagnostic time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, so it's advisable to obtain quotes from multiple sources for a more accurate estimate.

Need more information about the P0117 Nissan code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 Nissan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0117 Nissan code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Nissan Models

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 P0117 Nissan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- Common symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, poor fuel economy, engine overheating, and the temperature gauge reading inaccurately.

2. What can cause the engine coolant temperature circuit to read low in a Nissan?

- Possible causes include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a malfunctioning thermostat, a wiring issue, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117 in my Nissan?

- You can use a multimeter to test the engine coolant temperature sensor, check the thermostat for proper operation, inspect the wiring for any damage, and scan the ECM for any related fault codes.

4. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- Start by checking and replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor if necessary, ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly, repair any damaged wiring, and reset the ECM after making repairs.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with a faulty engine coolant temperature circuit can potentially lead to engine overheating, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption, so it's best to address the issue promptly.

6. Will resetting the ECM clear OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- Resetting the ECM may temporarily clear the fault code, but if the underlying issue causing code P0117 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle.

7. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- Ignoring OBDII code P0117 can lead to engine performance issues, potential overheating, and decreased fuel efficiency, so it's recommended to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- Many DIYers can address OBDII code P0117 by following diagnostic steps, replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, checking the thermostat, and repairing any wiring issues with the proper tools and knowledge.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan at a mechanic?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code P0117 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor at a mechanic's shop.

10. How long does it take to fix OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan?

- The repair time for OBDII code P0117 can vary based on the cause of the issue and the skill level of the person performing the repairs, but it typically takes around 1-2 hours to diagnose and fix the problem.

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle include high engine temperature readings on the dashboard, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential stalling.

2. What is the primary cause of OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car?

The primary cause of OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car is usually a malfunctioning engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in my Nissan vehicle?

To diagnose OBDII code P0117 in your Nissan vehicle, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, visually inspect the ECT sensor and its wiring for any damage, and test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter.

4. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car?

Some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car include replacing the faulty ECT sensor, checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring the cooling system is functioning properly.

5. Can a faulty thermostat cause OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle?

Yes, a faulty thermostat can potentially cause OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle by affecting the engine coolant temperature readings and triggering the code.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0117 present in a Nissan car?

It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P0117 present in a Nissan car as it can lead to overheating issues and potential engine damage if left unresolved.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle make it go away permanently?

Resetting the OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue with the ECT sensor or cooling system is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle?

Yes, a DIY enthusiast with the necessary tools and knowledge can often fix OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle by replacing the ECT sensor or addressing any wiring issues.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car?

The cost to repair OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan car can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle?

To prevent OBDII code P0117 in a Nissan vehicle, it is recommended to perform regular maintenance on the cooling system, including checking coolant levels, replacing the thermostat as needed, and ensuring the ECT sensor is in good working condition.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0117 Nissan OBDII Code

Submit a New Comment

Code P0117 Nissan comments

No comments found for this page.