AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder

P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2010 Nissan Pathfinder 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.

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Code Popularity 3,807

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
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2010 Nissan Pathfinder - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

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 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

If the coolant level is low, add coolant and reset the code. If the car is overheating the thermostat may have to be replaced. If the problem continues the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 2010 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2010 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2010 Nissan Pathfinder Code

1. What does OBDII code P0117 on a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder mean?

The code P0117 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) circuit, specifically that the sensor is reading a low voltage.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature gauge readings, poor fuel economy, engine overheating, and the Check Engine Light illuminating on the dashboard.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

Potential causes include a faulty ECT sensor, a damaged sensor connector or wiring, low coolant levels, a stuck-open thermostat, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 on my 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

You can diagnose the code by checking the ECT sensor's resistance, inspecting the sensor and its wiring for damage, verifying coolant levels, testing the thermostat, and scanning the ECM for any related trouble codes.

5. Can I continue to drive my 2010 Nissan Pathfinder with OBDII code P0117?

It is recommended to address the issue promptly to avoid potential engine damage or poor performance. Continued driving with a faulty ECT sensor can lead to overheating and other serious problems.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

Repair options may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, topping up coolant levels, replacing the thermostat if necessary, and clearing the trouble code with a diagnostic scanner.

7. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

While some tasks like checking wiring connections can be DIY-friendly, diagnosing and replacing the ECT sensor may require basic automotive knowledge or professional assistance to ensure proper installation.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

Costs can vary depending on the underlying issue, but replacing the ECT sensor can range from $50 to $200, while addressing wiring or ECM problems may incur additional labor charges.

9. Will resetting the Check Engine Light resolve OBDII code P0117 on a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder?

Resetting the light without addressing the root cause will only temporarily clear the code. It's crucial to diagnose and fix the underlying issue to prevent the code from reappearing.

10. Is OBDII code P0117 a common issue in 2010 Nissan Pathfinders?

While not the most common issue, the P0117 code related to the ECT circuit can occur in 2010 Nissan Pathfinders due to sensor failures, wiring issues, or cooling system problems.