AutoCodes – Nissan – P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder

P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 5,452

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
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

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

Code P0118 2011 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 P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2011 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 electrical circuit poor connection

How to Fix the DTC P0118 2011 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 P0118 2011 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 P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0118 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2011 Nissan Pathfinder Code

1. What does OBDII code P0118 on a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder mean?

The code P0118 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit registering a high voltage.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0118 OBDII code in a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

Common symptoms include the engine overheating, inaccurate temperature gauge readings, poor fuel economy, and potential issues with the vehicle's heater.

3. What are the possible causes of a P0118 OBDII code in a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

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

4. How can I diagnose the P0118 OBDII code on my 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

Diagnosing the code involves checking the ECT sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage, testing the sensor's resistance, verifying coolant levels, and inspecting the thermostat's operation.

5. Can I continue driving my 2011 Nissan Pathfinder with a P0118 OBDII code?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with a P0118 code, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair a P0118 OBDII code on my 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, addressing coolant leaks, replacing the thermostat if necessary, and resetting the fault code.

7. Is it possible to reset the P0118 OBDII code on a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder without fixing the issue?

While you can clear the fault code using an OBDII scanner, it is not advisable to do so without addressing the underlying problem, as it may lead to recurring issues.

8. Will a P0118 OBDII code on a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder affect the vehicle's performance?

Yes, a P0118 code can impact the vehicle's performance by causing issues such as rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and potential engine overheating if left unresolved.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair a P0118 OBDII code on a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

The cost of repairing a P0118 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from around $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix a P0118 OBDII code on a 2011 Nissan Pathfinder?

While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing a P0118 code can be done by DIY enthusiasts, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for accurate diagnosis and proper repairs to ensure the issue is resolved effectively.