AutoCodes – Nissan – P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra

P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

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: P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High.
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 13,621

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
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0118 2002 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 P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2002 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 electrical circuit poor connection

How to Fix the DTC P0118 2002 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 P0118 2002 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 P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra 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 P0118 2002 Nissan Sentra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0118 for a 2002 Nissan Sentra mean?

The code P0118 indicates a high voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit in the 2002 Nissan Sentra.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra?

Common symptoms of the P0118 code include the engine running hotter than normal, the temperature gauge reading high, poor fuel economy, and potential overheating issues.

3. What are the possible causes of the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra?

Possible causes of the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra include a faulty ECT sensor, a wiring issue in the ECT sensor circuit, a corroded connector, or a problem with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the P0118 code in my 2002 Nissan Sentra?

To diagnose the P0118 code, you can use a scan tool to read the code and check the ECT sensor's resistance and voltage. Inspect the wiring and connector for any visible damage or corrosion.

5. Can I drive my 2002 Nissan Sentra with the P0118 code?

It is not recommended to drive your 2002 Nissan Sentra with the P0118 code, as it can lead to engine overheating and other potential issues. It's best to address the problem promptly.

6. How do I repair the P0118 code in my 2002 Nissan Sentra?

To repair the P0118 code, you may need to replace the Engine Coolant Temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, or reset the code after fixing the underlying issue.

7. Is the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra a serious issue?

While the P0118 code itself may not be a serious issue, ignoring it can lead to engine performance problems and potential damage due to overheating, so it's important to address it promptly.

8. Can a bad thermostat cause the P0118 code to appear in a 2002 Nissan Sentra?

Yes, a faulty thermostat can cause the P0118 code to appear in a 2002 Nissan Sentra as it can affect the engine coolant temperature readings and trigger the code.

9. How much does it cost to repair the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra?

The cost of repairing the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve replacing the ECT sensor, which can cost around $50-$200.

10. Will resetting the check engine light fix the P0118 code in a 2002 Nissan Sentra?

Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the P0118 code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear.