AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0117 2005 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 2005 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

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

Code Popularity 3,858

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 2005 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0117 2005 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The common symptoms include engine overheating, poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, and the check engine light turning on.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The code P0117 typically indicates a problem with the engine coolant temperature sensor or its circuit, such as a faulty sensor, wiring issues, or a bad connection.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Diagnosing P0117 involves checking the engine coolant temperature sensor for proper operation, inspecting the sensor wiring for damage, and verifying the sensor's readings using a scan tool.

4. Can a faulty thermostat cause the OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

While a faulty thermostat can lead to engine overheating, it is not directly related to the P0117 code. The code is more commonly associated with issues related to the engine coolant temperature sensor.

5. How can I repair the OBDII code P0117 in my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Repairing P0117 may involve replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing any connectivity issues in the sensor circuit.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan with the OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P0117 code present, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It is best to address the issue promptly.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to address the P0117 code yourself by replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor or repairing wiring issues.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The cost of repairing P0117 can vary depending on the underlying issue, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Will resetting the check engine light resolve the OBDII code P0117 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Simply resetting the check engine light will not resolve the underlying issue causing the P0117 code. It is important to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem.

10. How often does the OBDII code P0117 occur in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The P0117 code can occur sporadically or more frequently, depending on the severity of the issue with the engine coolant temperature sensor or its circuit.