AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 4,023

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
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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 P0117 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan mean?

The code P0117 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit registering a low voltage.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, overheating, and potential issues with the vehicle's heater performance.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Potential causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the ECT circuit, low coolant levels, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0117 on my 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Diagnose the problem by checking the ECT sensor's resistance, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, verifying coolant levels, and using a scan tool to monitor ECT sensor data.

5. Can I drive my 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P0117 code present, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential overheating problems.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on my 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Repair options include replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, topping up coolant levels, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 on my 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan make the issue go away?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the P0117 code to reappear.

8. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P0117 from appearing on my 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Regular maintenance, including checking coolant levels, inspecting the ECT sensor, and addressing any wiring issues promptly, can help prevent the recurrence of the P0117 code.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Depending on the skill level and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair the P0117 code, especially if it involves sensor replacement or basic wiring repairs.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The repair time for P0117 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue. Simple fixes like sensor replacement may take less than an hour, while more complex wiring repairs or ECM reprogramming could take longer.