AutoCodes – Nissan – P0117 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0117 2010 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 2010 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 5,244

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 2010 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 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2010 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 2010 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 2010 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 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

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Need Help with the 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 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature gauge readings, engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potential rough idling.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- The code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a low voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low issue in my 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- Diagnosis involves checking the ECT sensor's wiring for damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and verifying proper ground connections.

4. Can a faulty thermostat cause the OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- Yes, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause improper engine temperature readings, potentially leading to the triggering of code P0117.

5. What are the potential dangers of ignoring OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- Ignoring the code can lead to engine overheating, increased fuel consumption, reduced performance, and potential damage to engine components.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan with the P0117 code present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the code active, as it can lead to engine-related issues and potential breakdowns.

7. How can I reset the OBDII code P0117 in my 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- The code can be reset using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the car's battery for a few minutes to clear the ECM's memory.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low issue in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- Depending on the individual's skill level, DIY repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, checking and repairing wiring, or addressing faulty grounds.

9. Will fixing the OBDII code P0117 in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan improve fuel efficiency?

- Yes, resolving the issue can lead to better engine performance, accurate temperature readings, and improved fuel efficiency.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low problem in a 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it generally takes between 1 to 2 hours for a skilled mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.