AutoCodes – Nissan – P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra

P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

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: P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.
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 5,682

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 P0116 2012 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 P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2012 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 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0116 2012 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Check for coolant leaks first, if there are no leaks check to see if thermostat is opening and closing properly if its not replace thermostat if problem is still there coolant temperature sensor may need to be replaced.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0116 2012 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 P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0116 2012 Nissan Sentra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

The common symptoms of code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra may include issues with the engine temperature gauge, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential overheating.

2. What does the OBDII code P0116 indicate on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Possible causes of code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the engine's cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0116 on my 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Diagnosing code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra involves checking the engine coolant temperature sensor for proper operation, inspecting the sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the engine's cooling system for any faults.

5. Can I still drive my 2012 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0116?

It is not recommended to drive your 2012 Nissan Sentra with code P0116 for an extended period as it may lead to potential engine overheating and damage. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How do I repair OBDII code P0116 on my 2012 Nissan Sentra?

To repair code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra, you may need to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, or address any underlying issues with the cooling system.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to address code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra by following the repair procedures outlined in the vehicle's service manual.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

The cost to fix code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra can vary depending on the underlying issue. Replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor or repairing wiring may cost anywhere from $50 to $200, including parts and labor.

9. Is it necessary to reset the OBDII system after repairing code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

It is recommended to reset the OBDII system after repairing code P0116 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra to clear the fault code and ensure that the issue has been resolved. This can be done using an OBDII scanner tool.

10. How often does OBDII code P0116 occur in a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Code P0116 can occur in a 2012 Nissan Sentra due to various reasons related to the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit. While not extremely common, it is still a potential issue that may need to be addressed.