The check engine light glaring at you from your 2016 Nissan Altima’s dashboard can be unsettling. It signals that your car’s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system has detected an issue and stored a corresponding trouble code. Understanding these OBDII codes for your 2016 Nissan Altima is the first step towards diagnosing and resolving the problem. This guide provides a comprehensive list of common OBDII codes for the 2016 Nissan Altima, along with their potential causes.
Common OBDII Trouble Codes for a 2016 Nissan Altima
The following table lists common OBDII diagnostic trouble codes for the 2016 Nissan Altima, along with their potential underlying issues:
| Code | Potential Problems |
|---|---|
| P0010 | Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Wiring issue |
| P0011 | Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Low engine oil, Incorrect engine timing, Incorrect engine oil viscosity, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Worn timing chain |
| P0012 | Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Low engine oil, Incorrect engine timing, Incorrect engine oil viscosity, 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, Low engine oil, Incorrect engine timing, Incorrect engine oil viscosity, 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) issues, MAF sensor circuit and wiring problems, Defective Barometric Pressure Sensor, Dirty MAF sensor wire or filament, PCM software update needed |
| P0102 | Unplugged or damaged MAF sensor, Loose or corroded MAF sensor circuit terminals, 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 |
| P0128 | Defective Engine Thermostat, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Cooling System issues, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Engine Coolant, Malfunctioning Engine Cooling fan(s) |
| P0135 | Defective Oxygen Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor, Defective Oxygen Sensor heater circuit, Exhaust System Leak, Intake Air System leak, Low Fuel Pressure, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective sensor wiring, PCM software update needed, Defective PCM |
Image: Example of an OBDII Code Reader that can be used to diagnose car problems.
| Code | Potential Problems |
|---|---|
| P0171 | Control module software update needed, Vacuum leaks, Mass air flow sensor issues, Plugged fuel filter, Weak fuel pump, Plugged or dirty fuel injectors |
| P0174 | PCM software needs updating, Vacuum leaks, Faulty MAF Sensor, Plugged Fuel Filter, Weak Fuel Pump, Plugged or dirty Fuel Injectors |
| P0300 | Worn spark plugs, ignition wires, coil(s), distributor cap and rotor, Incorrect ignition timing, Vacuum leak(s), Low fuel pressure, Malfunctioning EGR system, Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor, Defective Crankshaft/Camshaft Sensor, Defective Throttle Position Sensor, Mechanical engine problems |
| P0420 | Inefficient Catalytic Converter(s), Defective Oxygen Sensor(s), Engine misfires |
| P0440 | Missing or defective fuel cap, Damaged fuel tank filler neck, Torn or punctured Evaporative system hose(s), Defective Fuel Tank Sending Unit gasket/seal, Damaged Carbon Canister, Defective Evaporative Vent/Purge Valve, Damaged fuel tank |
Image: The engine bay of a 2016 Nissan Altima, where many components related to OBDII codes are located.
Nissan-Specific OBDII Codes and Further Assistance
This list encompasses some of the most frequently encountered OBDII codes for a 2016 Nissan Altima. However, codes beginning with “P1” are specific to Nissan and require diagnosis by a certified Nissan technician. These specialized codes often pinpoint more intricate issues within the vehicle’s systems.
If you don’t find your specific code listed or encounter a “P1” code, consulting a qualified mechanic is recommended. Professional technicians possess the expertise and advanced diagnostic tools necessary to accurately interpret these codes and provide the appropriate repairs for your 2016 Nissan Altima. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help when dealing with complex automotive issues.
