AutoCodes – Nissan – P0197 Nissan

P0197 Nissan Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor is used to detect the engine oil temperature. Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor, Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P0197 Nissan indicates Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor, Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
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 24,926

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 22, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0197 Nissan Description

The Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor is used to detect the engine oil temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the engine oil 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. The P0197 indicates the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor signal voltage is low (high temperature).

OBDII Code P0197 Nissan - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0197 Nissan Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0197 Nissan?

Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor
Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Oil Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0197 Nissan?

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 P0197 Nissan 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 P0197 Nissan code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0197 Nissan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0197 Nissan 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 P0197 Nissan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan may include a decrease in fuel efficiency, rough idling, engine overheating, and potential stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan indicate?

OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan indicates that the engine oil temperature sensor circuit is detecting a low input signal, potentially leading to inaccurate temperature readings.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan include a faulty engine oil temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, low engine oil level, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0197 in my Nissan?

Diagnosing OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the engine oil level, inspecting the wiring and connectors of the temperature sensor circuit, and testing the sensor for proper functionality.

5. Can I still drive my Nissan with OBDII code P0197 active?

It is not recommended to drive your Nissan with OBDII code P0197 active, as inaccurate engine oil temperature readings can lead to potential engine damage or performance issues.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0197 in my Nissan?

To repair OBDII code P0197 in your Nissan, you may need to replace the faulty engine oil temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, refill the engine oil to the correct level, and clear the trouble code with a scan tool.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan without fixing the issue?

Resetting OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan without fixing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the code is likely to reappear once the ECM detects the problem again.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan?

A DIY enthusiast with proper automotive knowledge and tools may be able to fix OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan by following the repair steps outlined in the service manual or consulting with a professional mechanic for guidance.

9. How critical is it to address OBDII code P0197 quickly in a Nissan?

It is important to address OBDII code P0197 promptly in a Nissan to prevent potential engine damage or performance issues due to inaccurate engine oil temperature readings.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0197 in a Nissan?

Regularly checking and maintaining the engine oil level, inspecting the wiring and connectors of the temperature sensor circuit, and scheduling routine vehicle inspections can help prevent OBDII code P0197 from occurring in a Nissan.