AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2008 Nissan Pathfinder

P0117 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,168

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 P0117 2008 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 P0117 2008 Nissan Pathfinder - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2008 Nissan Pathfinder Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2008 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 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0117 2008 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 P0117 2008 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 P0117 2008 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2008 Nissan Pathfinder Code

1. What does OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder mean?

The code P0117 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit reading lower than normal.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

Common symptoms include a decrease in fuel economy, engine overheating, rough idling, and a possible decrease in engine performance.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

Possible 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 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

Diagnose the issue by checking the ECT sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, inspecting coolant levels, and scanning the ECM for any related trouble codes.

5. How do I repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

Repair options include replacing the ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper coolant levels, and resetting the ECM after the issue has been addressed.

6. Can OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder cause engine damage?

While the code itself may not cause immediate engine damage, ignoring the underlying issue could lead to potential problems like overheating, which can ultimately damage the engine if not addressed promptly.

7. Is it safe to drive my 2008 Nissan Pathfinder with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0117, as it can lead to issues like engine overheating or poor performance. It's best to address the problem as soon as possible.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

Depending on the root cause, a DIY enthusiast with knowledge of automotive repairs may be able to address code P0117 by replacing the ECT sensor or checking for damaged wiring. However, complex issues may require professional help.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder?

The cost of repairing code P0117 can vary based on the specific issue causing the code. Replacing the ECT sensor or repairing wiring may range from $50 to $200, while addressing ECM issues could increase the cost.

10. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder make the issue go away?

Resetting the code without fixing the underlying problem will not resolve the issue permanently. It's crucial to diagnose and repair the root cause of code P0117 to prevent it from reoccurring.