AutoCodes – Nissan – P0118 2005 Nissan Pathfinder

P0118 2005 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 2005 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.

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Code Popularity 12,053

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
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Code P0118 2005 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 2005 Nissan Pathfinder - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2005 Nissan Pathfinder Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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 P0118 2005 Nissan Pathfinder Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder include issues with the temperature gauge reading inaccurately, the engine running hot or cold, poor fuel economy, and potential engine stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder indicate?

The OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit reading a high voltage, which may lead to inaccurate temperature readings and engine performance issues.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the ECT circuit, low coolant levels, or issues with the engine's cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

To diagnose OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspect the ECT sensor and its wiring, check coolant levels, and perform a resistance test on the ECT sensor.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

Repairing OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder may involve replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper coolant levels, and checking the engine cooling system for any issues.

6. Can driving with OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder cause further damage?

Continuing to drive with OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder can potentially cause engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and further damage to engine components due to inaccurate temperature readings and potential engine stalling.

7. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

It is not recommended to ignore OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder as it can lead to engine performance issues, inaccurate temperature readings, and potential engine damage if left unresolved.

8. Can a faulty thermostat cause OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

A faulty thermostat can indirectly contribute to triggering OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder by causing the engine to run too hot or too cold, affecting the ECT sensor readings.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder?

The cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but generally, replacing the ECT sensor and addressing related wiring or coolant system problems can cost between $100 to $300 at a repair shop.

10. Can I reset OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder by disconnecting the battery?

While disconnecting the battery may clear the code temporarily, it is not a recommended method to reset OBDII code P0118 in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder. It is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the fault code for a proper repair.