AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra

P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra 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 2004 Nissan Sentra 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 5,942

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra 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 2004 Nissan Sentra - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra?

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 2004 Nissan Sentra?

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 2004 Nissan Sentra 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 2004 Nissan Sentra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0117 2004 Nissan Sentra 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 2004 Nissan Sentra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

The common symptoms of code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra include a temperature gauge reading lower than normal, poor fuel economy, and potential engine stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 indicate in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

Code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra indicates an issue with the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit registering a low voltage signal.

3. What are the possible causes of code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

Possible causes of code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a damaged sensor connector or wiring, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

To diagnose code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra, you can use a multimeter to test the engine coolant temperature sensor, inspect the sensor connector and wiring for damage, and check for any loose connections.

5. Can I continue driving my 2004 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2004 Nissan Sentra with code P0117, as it can lead to potential engine overheating or other serious issues. It is best to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 in my 2004 Nissan Sentra?

To repair code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra, you may need to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogram the ECM if necessary.

7. Can a faulty thermostat cause OBDII code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

While a faulty thermostat can impact engine temperature, it is not a direct cause of code P0117. Focus on checking the engine coolant temperature sensor and related components first.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 in my 2004 Nissan Sentra make it go away permanently?

Simply resetting the code may temporarily clear the check engine light, but if the underlying issue causing code P0117 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

9. Are there any DIY tips to troubleshoot OBDII code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

You can start troubleshooting code P0117 by visually inspecting the sensor and its connections, testing the sensor with a multimeter, and checking for any visible wiring issues before seeking professional help.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra?

The repair time for code P0117 in a 2004 Nissan Sentra can vary based on the exact cause of the issue. Simple fixes like sensor replacement may take an hour or two, while more complex wiring repairs could take longer.