AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0117 2008 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 2008 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 7,489
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0117 2008 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 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P0117 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2008 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 2008 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 2008 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 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The common symptoms of code P0117 include a dashboard temperature gauge reading incorrectly, engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potentially a check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan mean?

Code P0117 indicates a fault with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, where the sensor is reporting a temperature lower than expected by the Engine Control Module (ECM).

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Possible causes of code P0117 include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged sensor wiring or connectors, low engine coolant level, air pockets in the cooling system, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Diagnosing code P0117 involves checking the ECT sensor for proper operation, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, verifying coolant level and system integrity, and testing the ECM if necessary.

5. Can I continue driving my 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan with OBDII code P0117?

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

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Repairing code P0117 typically involves replacing a faulty ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper coolant level and system operation, and clearing the code with a diagnostic tool.

7. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Simply resetting the check engine light without addressing the underlying issue causing code P0117 will not resolve the problem. The root cause of the fault must be identified and repaired.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix code P0117 by following proper diagnostic procedures and replacing components like the ECT sensor or damaged wiring.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The cost of repairing code P0117 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, the price of parts, and labor rates. A DIY repair may cost less, while a professional repair at a dealership or mechanic could range from $100 to $300 or more.

10. Is OBDII code P0117 a common issue in 2008 Nissan Altima Sedans?

Code P0117 related to the Engine Coolant Temperature circuit low can be a common issue in vehicles, including the 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan, due to factors like sensor wear, wiring degradation, or cooling system problems.

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