Decoding Nissan Altima OBD2 Codes: A Comprehensive Guide

Is your Nissan Altima’s check engine light illuminated? It can be unsettling to see that warning light appear on your dashboard. Fortunately, modern vehicles like your Nissan Altima are equipped with an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD2) system that helps pinpoint potential issues. This system generates trouble codes, often referred to as Nissan Altima Obd2 Codes, which can be accessed using an OBD2 scanner. Understanding these codes is the first step in diagnosing and resolving problems with your vehicle.

This guide, brought to you by the experts at obd-de.com, will help you navigate the world of Nissan Altima OBD2 codes. We’ll explain what these codes mean, how to retrieve them, and what common issues they might indicate in your Nissan Altima.

Understanding Your Nissan Altima’s OBD2 System

The OBD2 system is essentially your car’s self-diagnostic tool. It monitors various systems within your Nissan Altima, from the engine and transmission to emissions and more. When the system detects a problem that falls outside of normal operating parameters, it triggers the check engine light and stores a corresponding Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). These DTCs are standardized across the automotive industry, allowing mechanics and even car owners to understand what might be going wrong.

For Nissan Altima owners, accessing these OBD2 codes is relatively straightforward. You’ll need an OBD2 scanner, which is a readily available and affordable tool. These scanners plug into your car’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.

How to Use an OBD2 Scanner to Read Nissan Altima Codes

Using an OBD2 scanner is a simple process:

  1. Locate the OBD2 Port: In your Nissan Altima, the OBD2 port is usually found beneath the steering column. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location if needed.
  2. Plug in the Scanner: Turn off your Nissan Altima’s ignition and plug the OBD2 scanner firmly into the port.
  3. Turn Ignition to “ON” (Engine OFF): Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine. This provides power to the car’s systems and the OBD2 scanner.
  4. Follow Scanner Instructions: Turn on the OBD2 scanner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most scanners have a “Read Codes” or “Diagnostic Codes” option. Select this option to retrieve any stored DTCs.
  5. Record the Codes: The scanner will display any stored OBD2 codes. Write these codes down. You may see codes like P0171, P0300, or others.

Once you have the Nissan Altima OBD2 codes, you can begin to understand what they mean. Below is a table of common OBD2 codes that might appear in your Nissan Altima, along with potential causes:

Code Common Problems That Trigger This Code
P0010 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Wiring issue
P0011 Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Engine oil level is too low, The engine is not timed correctly, The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer’s requirements, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Worn timing chain
P0012 Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Engine oil level is too low, The engine is not timed correctly, The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer’s requirements, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Worn timing chain
P0013 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Wiring issue
P0014 Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Engine oil level is too low, The engine is not timed correctly, The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer’s requirements, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Worn timing chain
P0101 Large vacuum leaks, Split Intake Air Boot or PCV Hose, Defective intake manifold gaskets, Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), Mass Air Flow Sensor circuit and or wiring problems, Defective Barometric Pressure Sensor, Dirty or contaminated Mass Air Flow Sensing wire or filament, PCM software needs to be updated
P0102 The Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Sensor is unplugged or the wiring is damaged, Loose or corroded electrical terminals in the MAF Sensor circuit, Faulty MAF Sensor
P0113 Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Dirty air filter, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Faulty or corroded Intake Air Temperature Sensor wiring or connections
P0128 Defective Engine Thermostat, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Defective Cooling System, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Engine Coolant causing incorrect Coolant Temperature Sensor readings, Defective/always running Engine Cooling fan(s)
P0135 Defective Oxygen Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor, defective Oxygen Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor Heater Circuit, Exhaust System Leak, Intake Air System leak, Low Fuel Pressure, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective sensor wiring and/or circuit problem, PCM software needs to be updated, Defective PCM
P0171 Control module software needs to be updated, Vacuum leaks (intake manifold gaskets, vacuum hoses, PCV hoses, etc.), Mass air flow sensor, Plugged fuel filter or weak fuel pump, Plugged or dirty fuel injectors
P0174 PCM software needs to be updated, Vacuum leaks (Intake Manifold Gaskets, vacuum hoses, PCV hoses, etc.), Faulty Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor, Plugged Fuel Filter or weak Fuel Pump, Plugged or dirty Fuel Injectors
P0200 Defective Fuel Injector, Faulty or corroded Fuel Injector, wiring, and/or connections, Plugged Fuel Injector, Dirt in the Fuel Injector
P0201 Defective Fuel Injector, Faulty or corroded Fuel Injector, wiring, and/or connections, Plugged Fuel Injector, Dirt in the Fuel Injector
P0202 Malfunction of the Fuel Injector, Malfunction of the PCM Fuel Injector driver circuit, Defective wiring/connections in the Fuel Injector wiring harness, Defective Fuel Injector power circuit(s)
P0203 Fuel injector failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0205 Fuel injector failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0300 Worn out spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor (when applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak fuel pressure, Improperly functioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft and/or Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems (i.e.—low compression, leaking head gasket(s), or valve problems)
P0301 Worn out spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor (when applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak fuel pressure, Improperly functioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft and/or Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems (i.e.—low compression, leaking head gasket(s), or valve problems)
P0302 Worn out spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor (when applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak fuel pressure, Improperly functioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft and/or Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems (i.e.—low compression, leaking head gasket(s), or valve problems)
P0303 Worn out spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor (when applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak fuel pressure, Improperly functioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft and/or Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems (i.e.—low compression, leaking head gasket(s), or valve problems)
P0304 Worn out spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor (when applicable), Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low or weak fuel pressure, Improperly functioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft and/or Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems (i.e.—low compression, leaking head gasket(s), or valve problems)
P0401 Restriction in the EGR passages, usually caused by carbon buildup, The EGR Valve is defective, Lack of proper vacuum or electrical signal to the EGR valve, Malfunctioning EGR Vacuum supply solenoid, Lack of proper EGR system feedback to the computer from the: Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP), Differential EGR Pressure Feedback Sensor (DPFE), EGR Valve Position Sensor (EVP), EGR Temperature Sensor
P0420 Inefficient Catalytic Converter(s), Defective Front or Rear Oxygen Sensor(s), Misfiring engines
P0430 Defective Catalytic Converter, Internal engine damage resulting in high oil consumption and/or a leaking Head Gasket has damaged the Catalytic Converter
P0440 Missing fuel cap, Defective or damaged fuel cap, Distorted or damaged Fuel Tank Filler Neck, Torn or punctured Evaporative system hose(s), Defective Fuel Tank Sending Unit gasket or seal, Split or damaged Carbon Canister, Defective Evaporative Vent Valve and/or Evaporative Purge Valve, Defective or damaged fuel tank
P0441 Missing fuel cap, Stuck open or closed purge valve, Defective or damaged fuel cap, Distorted, damaged or cracked Fuel Tank Filler Neck, Torn or punctured Evaporative system hose(s), Defective Fuel Tank Sending Unit gasket or seal, Split or damaged Carbon Canister, Defective Evaporative Vent Valve, Defective or damaged fuel tank
P0442 Defective or damaged fuel cap, Distorted or damaged Fuel Tank Filler Neck, Small tear or puncture in the Evaporative system hose(s) and/or Carbon Canister, Defective Fuel Tank Sending Unit gasket or seal, Small split in a seam of the Carbon Canister, Defective Evaporative Vent Valve and/or Evaporative Purge Valve, Defective or damaged Fuel Tank, Defective Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor, Defective Leak Detection Pump, Slightly loose and/or worn clamps or hardened O-rings anywhere in the EVAP system
P0455 Missing fuel cap, Defective or damaged fuel cap, Distorted or damaged Fuel Tank Filler Neck, Torn or punctured Evaporative system hose(s), Defective Fuel Tank Sending Unit gasket or seal, Split or damaged Carbon Canister, Defective Evaporative Vent Valve and/or Evaporative Purge Valve, Defective or damaged fuel tank, Defective Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor
P0500 Defective Vehicle Speed Sensor, Defective Speedometer, Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication (CAN) bus problems, Defective transmission or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0501 Defective Vehicle Speed Sensor, Defective Speedometer, Vehicle Speed Sensor wiring or connector, Communication (CAN) bus problems, Defective transmission or differential Vehicle Speed Sensor drive gear
P0505 Defective Idle Air Control Motor, Intake Manifold Vacuum leaks, Carbon buildup in the Throttle Body air passages
P0506 Defective/sticking Idle Air Control Motor, Intake Manifold Vacuum leaks, Carbon buildup in the Throttle Body air passages, Defective Power Steering Pressure Switch
P0507 Defective/sticking Idle Air Control Motor, Intake Manifold Vacuum leaks, Carbon buildup in the Throttle Body air passages, Defective Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Charging System/Alternator, Defective Power Steering Pressure Switch
P0600 Defective PCM (Power Train Control Module), Defective PCM data bus wiring/connections, Defective PCM data bus ground circuit(s), Defective PCM or other control module controlled output devices, Defective CAN bus communication
P0601 Lack of proper voltage to the PCM, Defective PCM memory module, Defective PCM ground circuit(s), Defective PCM controlled output devices
P0602 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0603 Lack of proper voltage to the Keep Alive Memory connection on the PCM, Defective PCM Keep Alive Memory Module (KAM), Defective PCM ground circuit(s), Defective PCM controlled output devices
P0605 Lack of proper voltage and/or ground to the PCM, Defective PCM ROM memory module, Defective PCM ground circuit(s), Defective PCM controlled output devices
P0700 Defective Shift Solenoids, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Valve Body, Dirty transmission fluid that restricts the hydraulic passages
P0705 Defective Transmission Range Sensor (PRNDL input), Defective Transmission Range Sensor (PRNDL input) wiring or connector, Defective Valve Body, Defective manual shift valve linkage, Dirty transmission fluid that restricts the hydraulic passages
P0706 Defective Transmission Range Sensor (PRNDL input), Defective Transmission Range Sensor (PRNDL input) wiring or connector, Defective Valve Body, Defective manual shift valve linkage, Dirty transmission fluid that restricts the hydraulic passages
P0720 Defective Output Speed Sensor, Defective Shift Solenoids, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Valve Body, Dirty transmission fluid that restricts the hydraulic passages, Defective Output Speed Sensor wiring or connector
P0730 Defective Shift Solenoids, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Valve Body, Dirty transmission fluid that restricts the hydraulic passages
P0841 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission fluid pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P0842 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission fluid pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P0845 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission fluid pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P0846 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission fluid pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P0847 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission fluid pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P0901 Clutch master cylinder failure, Clutch solenoid failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure
P0935 Hydraulic power unit assembly failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0942 Hydraulic power unit assembly failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0944 Clogged transmission filter, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission oil pump failure, Wiring issue
P0961 Transmission shift solenoid failure
P0A08 Inverter/converter assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P0A0D High voltage safety device failure, Inverter/converter assembly failure, Power management control module failure, Service disconnect plug is not properly connected, Wiring issue
P0A0F Hybrid transaxle assembly failure, Internal engine failure, Power management control module failure
P0A7F Poor connections at the HV battery, A problem with the HV battery, ECU issues
P0A80 High voltage battery assembly failure
P0B22 Battery contactor assembly failure, Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure
P0B24 Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure, High voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0B26 Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure, High voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0B28 Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure, High voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0B30 Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure, High voltage battery assembly failure, Wiring issue
P0C00 Drive motor generator power inverter control module failure
P0C09 Drive motor generator assembly failure, Drive motor generator power inverter control module failure
P0C11 Coolant system leak, Drive motor generator power inverter control module failure, Engine cooling fan failure, Water pump failure
P0C14 Coolant system leak, Drive motor generator power inverter control module failure, Engine cooling fan failure, Water pump failure
P0C15 Coolant system leak, Drive motor generator power inverter control module failure, Engine cooling fan failure, Water pump failure
P2000 Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) failure, Intake air leak, Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor is dirty/loss of calibration
PP2002 Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) failure, Intake air leak, Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor is dirty/loss of calibration
P2004 A failed IMRC actuator, A problem with the intake manifold or linkage, Wiring issues
P2006 Intake manifold runner control actuator failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Restricted vacuum lines
P2101 Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Throttle control motor failure, Wiring issue
P2122 Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Throttle control motor failure, Wiring issue
P2135 Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) failure, Wiring issue
P2138 Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) failure, Wiring issue
P2181 Engine coolant heater failure, Engine coolant level is too low, Thermostat failure
P2210 NOx sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2213 NOx sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2237 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2238 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2251 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2302 Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2303 Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2305 Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2308 Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2310 Ignition coil failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2401 Evap leak detection pump failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2402 Evap leak detection pump failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2422 EVAP vent valve failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2431 Air control solenoid failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Secondary Air System pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P2432 Air control solenoid failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Secondary Air System pressure sensor failure, Wiring issue
P2500 Alternator failure, Battery failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2501 Alternator failure, Battery failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2503 Alternator failure, Battery failure, Wiring issue
P2509 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) power relay failure, Wiring issue
P250C Oil level sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2601 Coolant Heat Storage (CHS) water pump failure, Coolant Heat Storage (CHS) water pump relay, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2607 Intake air heater, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2609 Intake air heater, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2610 An internal PCM problem, A problem with the PCM power or ground circuit
P2614 Broken tone ring, Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2706 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission shift solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2711 Internal transmission failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2714 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission shift solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2716 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission shift solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2723 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission shift solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2803 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission range sensor failure, Wiring issue
P2806 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission range sensor failure, Transmission range sensor is out of adjustment, Wiring issue
P2809 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission pressure control solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2810 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission pressure control solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2815 Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure, Transmission fluid level is low, Transmission pressure control solenoid failure, Wiring issue
P2A00 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2A01 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2A03 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2A04 Exhaust leak, Oxygen sensor failure, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Wiring issue
P2BA8 Faulty NOx Sensors, NOx Sensors harness is open or shorted, NOx Sensors circuit poor electrical connection, Fualty Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
P3000 Fuel level is too low, High voltage battery assembly failure, High voltage battery is not sufficiently charged
P3100 High voltage powertrain control module failure
P3400 Faulty Cylinder Deactivation System/td>
P3401 Engine oil level is too low, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Variable valve timing solenoid failure, Wiring issue
B0081 Wiring issues, Control module problems, A problem with the airbag
C0040 A faulty wheel speed sensor, A problem with the wheel speed sensor circuit, Reluctor issues, A problem with the ABS module
U0001 A faulty wheel speed sensor, A problem with the wheel speed sensor circuit, Reluctor issues, A problem with the ABS module
U0073 A faulty control module, A problem with the CAN bus
U0100 A faulty PCM, A problem with the control module circuit, A problem with the CAN bus
U0107 A dead battery, A faulty TAC module, A problem with TAC module circuit, A problem with the CAN bus
U0121 A dead battery, A faulty ABS module, A problem with ABS module circuit, A problem with the CAN bus

Disclaimer: This table provides general information. The specific causes and diagnostic procedures for Nissan Altima OBD2 codes can vary depending on the model year and engine type. Always consult your Nissan Altima service manual and a qualified technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.

What to Do After Reading Nissan Altima OBD2 Codes

Retrieving the OBD2 code is just the beginning. Here’s a step-by-step approach to take once you have your Nissan Altima OBD2 code:

  1. Research the Code: Use the table above or reputable online resources to understand the potential meaning of your specific Nissan Altima OBD2 code. Websites like obd-de.com offer extensive databases of OBD2 codes and their possible causes.
  2. Initial Inspection: Based on the code’s description, perform some basic visual checks. For example, if you have an EVAP system code (like P0440), check your gas cap to ensure it’s properly tightened. Look for any obvious leaks, damaged hoses, or loose connections in the engine bay.
  3. Avoid Guesswork Repairs: While it can be tempting to immediately replace a part listed as a “possible cause,” resist the urge to guess. OBD2 codes indicate potential problem areas, but further diagnosis is often needed to pinpoint the exact issue.
  4. Seek Professional Diagnosis: For accurate diagnosis and repair, especially for complex codes or if you’re not comfortable working on your car, it’s always best to consult a certified mechanic. Nissan-specific codes (often starting with “P1XXX”) particularly require specialized knowledge and equipment.

Need Expert Help with Your Nissan Altima OBD2 Codes?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your Nissan Altima OBD2 codes, or if the check engine light persists after initial troubleshooting, the expert service technicians at our dealership are here to help. Our team has extensive experience with Nissan vehicles and utilizes the latest diagnostic equipment to accurately identify and resolve any issues.

Codes starting with “P1” are Nissan-specific, and require specialized diagnostic tools and expertise. Our Nissan specialists are fully equipped to handle these complex codes and ensure your Nissan Altima is repaired to the highest standards.

Don’t let a check engine light worry you. Contact us today at 888-890-0944 to speak with our knowledgeable service team, or easily schedule a service appointment online using our convenient form below. We are committed to providing top-notch service and getting your Nissan Altima back on the road safely and efficiently.

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