AutoCodes – Nissan – P0118 2012 Nissan Pathfinder

P0118 2012 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 2012 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.

Save to My Repairs Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 6,651

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
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0118 2012 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2012 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 2012 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 2012 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0118 2012 Nissan Pathfinder code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0118 2012 Nissan Pathfinder code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Code

1. What does OBDII code P0118 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder mean?

The code P0118 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, specifically that the sensor is reading a high voltage signal.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0118 code on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

Common symptoms include the engine running hotter than normal, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potentially the Check Engine light being illuminated on the dashboard.

3. What are the possible causes of a P0118 code on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

Potential causes include a faulty ECT sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, a coolant leak affecting the sensor, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the cause of a P0118 code on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

Diagnosing the issue involves checking the ECT sensor's resistance, inspecting the wiring for damage, verifying coolant levels and condition, and using a scan tool to monitor sensor readings.

5. Can I still drive my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder with a P0118 code?

It's not recommended to continue driving with a P0118 code, as it can lead to potential overheating issues and engine damage. It's best to address the problem promptly.

6. How do I repair a P0118 code on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

Repairing the P0118 code typically involves replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, ensuring proper coolant levels, and clearing the code with a scan tool.

7. Can a P0118 code on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder cause other problems?

Yes, a P0118 code can potentially cause issues like poor engine performance, increased emissions, and in extreme cases, engine overheating leading to more severe damage.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P0118 code on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

The cost of fixing a P0118 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Is it possible to prevent a P0118 code from occurring on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

Regular maintenance, such as checking coolant levels, inspecting the ECT sensor and wiring harness for damage, and addressing any cooling system issues promptly, can help prevent a P0118 code.

10. How long does it take to fix a P0118 code on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?

The repair time for a P0118 code can vary based on the specific cause of the issue and the expertise of the technician, but it usually takes anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to complete the repair.