AutoCodes – Nissan – P0118 2003 Nissan Sentra

P0118 2003 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 2003 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.

Save to My Repairs Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide My Repairs

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

Code Popularity 7,999

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
Add Comment

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

Code P0118 2003 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 2003 Nissan Sentra - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2003 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2003 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 2003 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 2003 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 2003 Nissan Sentra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0118 2003 Nissan Sentra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0118 2003 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 P0118 2003 Nissan Sentra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra include the engine running hot, the temperature gauge reading high, and potential issues with the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 indicate on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit, specifically that the signal is reading as too high.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra include a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, a wiring issue in the sensor circuit, or a problem with the engine's cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0118 on my 2003 Nissan Sentra?

To diagnose OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, check the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, and test the sensor's resistance using a multimeter.

5. Can I still drive my 2003 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0118?

It is not recommended to drive your 2003 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0118, as the high engine temperature indicated by the code can lead to potential engine damage or overheating.

6. How do I repair OBDII code P0118 on my 2003 Nissan Sentra?

To repair OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra, you may need to replace the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, repair any damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, or address any issues with the cooling system.

7. Can a bad thermostat cause OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

Yes, a faulty thermostat can potentially cause OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra, as it can impact the engine's coolant temperature readings and affect the sensor circuit's operation.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

The cost to fix OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may involve replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, which can cost around $50 to $100 for the part.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code P0118 on my 2003 Nissan Sentra make it go away permanently?

Resetting the OBDII code P0118 on your 2003 Nissan Sentra may make the warning light disappear temporarily, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, the code is likely to return.

10. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra?

Ignoring OBDII code P0118 on a 2003 Nissan Sentra is not recommended, as it can lead to potential engine problems and compromise the vehicle's performance and reliability. It is best to diagnose and address the issue promptly.