P0117 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
1 Nissan model · 1 documented issue · $200-$600 repair
P0117 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Nissan NV cargo van uses a radiator with plastic end tanks that develop cracks from heat cycling and vibration inherent to commercial van use. The cracks typically form at the crimp joint between the plastic tank and aluminum core. The V8 NV 2500/3500 models are more susceptible due to higher operating temperatures, especially when loaded to capacity. A cracked radiator causes gradual coolant loss that can lead to overheating if not caught early.
Common Symptoms
- Coolant dripping from front of engine area
- Low coolant warning light
- Visible crack at radiator end tank seam
- Engine running hotter than normal, especially when loaded
- Coolant residue visible on radiator face
How to Fix
Replace the radiator with a quality aftermarket unit that has reinforced plastic tanks or an all-aluminum radiator. Mishimoto and Spectra Premium make direct-fit replacements. Replace the radiator hoses and thermostat during the repair. Flush the cooling system with fresh Nissan Long Life Coolant (blue). Install a supplemental coolant overflow catch bottle if the van is regularly loaded to capacity.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan NV radiator 21460-1PA1A
Confirm VIN, engine, cooler ports and build date.
- Genuine Nissan 2017-2021 NV 5.6L VK56VD radiator 21410-9JJ0A
Do not cross-apply to VQ40DE or 2012-2016 VK56DE; confirm VIN and cooler connections.
- Genuine Nissan blue long-life 50/50 coolant 999MP-L25500P
Verify owner/service manual, system capacity and existing coolant compatibility. This is 50/50 premix; do not dilute or use it as proof of a radiator failure.
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipReplace radiator hoses and thermostat during the radiator swap — this is free labor overlap and old hoses will fail soon after the radiator
- WarningCheck coolant level weekly if the NV is loaded to capacity daily — a small crack can escalate to a blown radiator under heavy load conditions
P0117 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0117 mean on a Nissan?
P0117 stands for "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low." This code means the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is reading too low a voltage, which the computer interprets as an impossibly high coolant temperature. In most cases this is an electrical fault — such as a short to ground in the wiring — rather than the engine actually overheating. The coolant temperature signal affects fuel mixture, cooling fans, and other functions, so a bad reading can cause poor running, hard starting, or fans running constantly. The fault is usually in the sensor or its wiring. On Nissan it is documented across 1 model: NV.
What are the most common causes of P0117?
The most common causes of P0117 are: Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, Short to ground in the sensor signal wire, Damaged or corroded wiring/connector at the sensor, Coolant contamination affecting the sensor, Poor electrical ground, Faulty PCM/ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0117 on a Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $200 to $600 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0117 on a different make?
View P0117 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.