AutoCodes – Nissan – P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Thermostat Function

Quick Answer

The thermostat is a component that blocks the flow of coolant to the radiator until the engine has warmed up. Common causes include Leaking or stuck open thermostat, Low engine coolant level, Insufficient warm up time. 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: P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates Thermostat Function.
Common causes: Common causes include Leaking or stuck open thermostat, Low engine coolant level, Insufficient warm up time.
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 7,402

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 Apr 21, 2019

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

The thermostat is a component that blocks the flow of coolant to the radiator until the engine has warmed up. When the engine is cold, no coolant flows through the engine. Once the engine reaches its operating temperature, the thermostat opens. The OBDII sets when the engine coolant temperature has not risen enough to open the thermostat even though the engine has run long enough. This is due to a leak in the seal or the thermostat open stuck.

OBDII Code P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan - Thermostat Function - AutoCodes.com — P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Thermostat Function

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Leaking or stuck open thermostat
Low engine coolant level
Insufficient warm up time
Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
Engine coolant temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine coolant temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0128 2011 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

If cooling system is not leaking and the fluid level is OK, replacing the thermostat usually takes care of the problem.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0128 2011 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.

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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 P0128 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does OBDII code P0128 on a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan indicate?

The P0128 code on a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan typically indicates an issue with the thermostat function.

2. What are common symptoms of a faulty thermostat triggering code P0128 in a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Common symptoms may include the engine running colder than normal, poor fuel economy, a slow-to-warm-up engine, or the temperature gauge not reaching the normal operating level.

3. What are possible causes of the P0128 code in a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The P0128 code in a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan is commonly triggered by a malfunctioning thermostat, low coolant levels, a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, or a problem with the cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the P0128 code on my 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Diagnosing the P0128 code may involve checking the coolant level, testing the thermostat, inspecting the ECT sensor, and examining the cooling system for leaks or blockages.

5. Can I continue driving my 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan with a P0128 code?

It is not recommended to drive your 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan with a P0128 code for an extended period as it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential overheating problems.

6. How can I repair the P0128 code on my 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Repairing the P0128 code may involve replacing the thermostat, topping up coolant levels, fixing any cooling system leaks, or replacing the ECT sensor as needed.

7. Is it possible to reset the P0128 code on my 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is not recommended as the issue causing the P0128 code may persist and lead to further problems down the line.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the thermostat-related issue triggering code P0128 on a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The cost of repairing the thermostat-related issue triggering the P0128 code can vary depending on the specific problem, but it may range from $150 to $400 including parts and labor.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive skills fix the P0128 code on a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Depending on the specific issue, a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive skills may be able to replace the thermostat or ECT sensor to address the P0128 code. However, diagnosing and fixing more complex problems may require professional help.

10. How often should the thermostat be replaced in a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan to prevent the P0128 code from recurring?

The thermostat in a 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan should be inspected regularly as part of routine maintenance and replaced if signs of wear or malfunction are detected to prevent the recurrence of the P0128 code.