AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat. 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 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 4,008
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases.
OBDII Code P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

  • Low engine coolant level
  • Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
  • Faulty engine coolant thermostat
  • Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan include engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potential issues with the vehicle's cooling system.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 indicate on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, specifically that the temperature reading is lower than expected.

3. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the ECT circuit, or a problem with the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117 on my 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

To diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan, you can use a scan tool to check the ECT sensor readings, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the ECM for proper functioning.

5. Can I drive my 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive your 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan with OBDII code P0117, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It is best to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on my 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

To repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan, you may need to replace the ECT sensor, repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogram the ECM if necessary.

7. Is OBDII code P0117 a serious issue on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

OBDII code P0117 should be addressed promptly on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan to prevent potential engine damage due to incorrect temperature readings. While it may not cause immediate harm, it can lead to other issues if left unresolved.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Depending on your mechanical skills and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan by following repair guides and instructions specific to the issue.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The cost to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, parts needed for replacement, and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take it to a professional mechanic.

10. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 on my 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan make it go away permanently?

Resetting OBDII code P0117 on a 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem to prevent recurrence.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan OBDII Code

Code P0117 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan comments

No comments found for this page.

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