The P0117 code in the 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates a low voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.
This condition can lead to poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption due to inaccurate adjustments in the fuel mixture and ignition timing.
Common symptoms include a check engine light, stalling, poor acceleration, and higher fuel consumption.
Causes may involve a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring, low coolant levels, or corrosion.
Diagnosing this issue requires tools like an OBD-II scanner and a digital multimeter.
What does P0117 Nissan Code Mean?
The P0117 code indicates a low signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, affecting the ECM’s fuel mixture and ignition timing.
This can be caused by a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or low coolant levels, leading to poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption if not addressed.
P0117 Symptoms
When the P0117 error code appears, drivers may notice several signs that point to problems with the engine coolant temperature sensor. This code means the sensor is giving low temperature readings, which can affect how the engine runs.
- Check Engine Light: The Check Engine Light will likely turn on, indicating there may be issues with the engine.
- Engine Stalling or Rough Idling: Drivers might experience stalling or rough idling. This can make driving feel unstable and could be a safety risk.
- Poor Acceleration and Reduced Performance: If the engine control unit (ECU) and the coolant temperature sensor are not communicating well, the vehicle may not accelerate properly. The engine may have difficulty adjusting the fuel mixture and ignition timing.
- Increased Fuel Consumption: A poorly running engine can use more fuel. Incorrect temperature readings can cause too much fuel to be injected, which lowers fuel efficiency.
Addressing these symptoms promptly can help prevent overheating and serious engine damage.
Nissan P0117 Fault Code Cause
Understanding the causes of the P0117 fault code helps in fixing the problem. This code means there is an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit.
Here are some common reasons why this code might appear:
- Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: The ECT sensor may not work properly, giving wrong temperature readings to the Engine Control Module (ECM). This leads to incorrect data.
- Damaged Wiring or Connectors: If the wiring is frayed or the connectors are corroded, it can interfere with the signal. This disruption can cause the P0117 code to activate because of incorrect readings.
- Low Coolant Levels or Leaks: Low coolant levels or leaks can make the sensor show unusually low temperatures, which contributes to the fault.
- Corrosion or Buildup on the Sensor: Dirt or corrosion on the ECT sensor can affect its performance. This can lead to inaccurate readings and trigger the P0117 code.
In some cases, problems with the ECM can also lead to misreading sensor data.
Identifying these issues is key to diagnosing and fixing the problem effectively.
What Tools Needed to Diagnose?
To diagnose the P0117 fault code in a Nissan Altima, you will need some specific tools. These tools will help you identify and fix the problem more easily.
- Digital Multimeter: This tool measures voltage and resistance in the engine coolant temperature sensor and its wires. Getting accurate readings is key to checking if the sensor is working properly.
- OBD-II Scanner: An OBD-II scanner will read and clear the P0117 trouble code from the Engine Control Module (ECM). It can also show other potential problems that might not be obvious right away.
- Wiring Diagrams: For a 2002 Nissan Altima, wiring diagrams help you understand the coolant temperature circuit. They can help you find any wiring issues that may cause wrong sensor readings.
- Basic Hand Tools: You’ll need a set of socket wrenches and other hand tools to remove and replace the coolant temperature sensor if it turns out to be faulty.
Using these tools during the diagnostic process can help you work more efficiently and accurately.
How to Fix P0117 Nissan Error Code – Step by Step
Step 1:
Confirm the presence of the P0117 error code using an OBD-II scanner. This is the first step in addressing the issue in your Nissan Altima.
Step 2:
Inspect the engine coolant temperature sensor for any signs of damage, corrosion, or buildup. If you find any abnormalities, replace the sensor with a compatible part to ensure accurate readings.
Step 3:
Examine the wiring and connectors associated with the coolant temperature sensor. Look for frays, breaks, or loose connections that could affect signal transmission and contribute to the P0117 code.
Repair or replace any compromised wiring to restore proper function.
Step 4:
Verify that the coolant level is adequate. Inspect the cooling system for any leaks that could lead to insufficient coolant levels. Low coolant can cause misleading temperature readings and trigger the error code.
Step 5:
After completing these repairs, clear the trouble code from the Engine Control Module (ECM) using the OBD-II scanner.
Conduct a test drive to monitor engine performance and ensure the P0117 code does not reappear, confirming that the issue has been successfully resolved.
Common Diagnosis Mistakes to Avoid
Many technicians make mistakes when diagnosing the P0117 error code in the Nissan Altima. These mistakes can lead to wrong conclusions and unnecessary repairs. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
- Jumping to Sensor Conclusions: Technicians sometimes assume the engine coolant temperature sensor is faulty without checking the wiring and connectors first. Damage or corrosion in these parts can cause problems that are blamed on the sensor.
- Forgetting to Check Coolant Levels: If technicians don’t check the coolant level, they might think the sensor is broken. In reality, a coolant leak could be the real problem.
- Not Using Live Data: Technicians may overlook the importance of using a diagnostic scanner to see real-time data from the engine coolant temperature sensor. This data is essential for understanding how the sensor is performing.
- Neglecting to Clear Trouble Codes: Some mechanics forget to clear the trouble code from the engine control module (ECM) after making repairs. If the code comes back, it can lead to confusion about whether the issue was really fixed.
P0117 Nissan Repair Cost
If your Nissan Altima has a P0117 code, repair costs usually range from $100 to $300. This amount can change based on the specific problem found. Labor costs are a big part of this total, typically between $80 and $150 per hour.
For example, if the engine coolant temperature sensor needs replacement, the part can cost between $20 and $100, depending on where you buy it and the brand. If there’s damage to the wiring or connectors, that could increase the overall repair cost.
It’s a good idea to talk to a mechanic for an accurate estimate based on your car’s condition. The make and model of your vehicle, along with how extensive the repairs are, will affect the final cost.
Simple repairs, like changing a faulty sensor, tend to be on the lower end of the price range. More complicated issues, such as fixing wiring harness problems, will likely push costs higher.
Getting multiple quotes and understanding what repairs are needed can help you gauge the expected expenses for the P0117 code in your Nissan Altima.
Related Error Codes on Nissan
When checking the P0117 code in a Nissan Altima, it’s important to look at other error codes that might show problems with the engine’s coolant temperature sensor. Having multiple codes can make finding the issue harder and may point to problems in the engine management or cooling systems.
Here are some error codes related to the P0117 code:
| Error Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0116 | Problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor |
| P0118 | High Input in the Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit |
| P0125 | Coolant Temperature Too Low for Proper Fuel Control |
Each error code shows a different problem. For example, P0116 deals with the performance of the coolant temperature sensor. P0118 means the circuit is getting too much input, which can cause wrong readings and affect how the engine runs.
Fixing the P0117 code can help stop these other codes from appearing, which helps keep the vehicle running well. Using a diagnostic scanner is important for finding all related error codes, which helps in troubleshooting effectively.
Can I drive safely with P0117 Nissan?
Driving a Nissan with a P0117 code is not safe.
This code means the engine coolant temperature sensor isn’t working right. It can cause poor engine performance and even overheating.
It’s best to get it checked and fixed to keep your car running well.
People Also Ask
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Ignoring P0117 Code?
If you ignore the P0117 code, your engine might not work well anymore. It could use more gas, overheat, and even get damaged. If you wait too long to fix it, you might have to pay a lot of money for repairs later.
Can P0117 Affect Fuel Efficiency?
Yes, the P0117 code can hurt fuel efficiency. If the coolant temperature sensor is broken, it can make the engine use more fuel. This means you will spend more money on gas and the car won’t run as well. It’s important to fix this problem.
Is P0117 Specific to Nissan Vehicles Only?
No, the P0117 code is not just for Nissan cars. It’s a common code that can show up in many different car brands. It means there is a problem with the engine coolant temperature sensor, which many cars have.
How Often Should I Check the Coolant Temperature Sensor?
You should check the coolant temperature sensor every 30,000 miles or when you follow the car’s manual. This helps make sure your car’s cooling system works well and keeps your engine from getting too hot. Regular checks keep your vehicle running smoothly!
What Other Maintenance Should I Perform Alongside Fixing P0117?
While fixing the coolant temperature sensor, also check the engine coolant and change it if needed. Look at the thermostat to see if it works. Clean the air intake, and check the spark plugs, hoses, and belts to make sure everything is in good shape.