Engine Oil Temperature Sensor

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine oil temperature sensor is used to detect the engine oil temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the 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.

Fig 1: Identifying Engine Oil Temperature Sensor, Gasket And Terminal

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

VOLTAGE AND RESISTANCE REFERENCE DATA

Engine oil temperature

Voltage⁽¹⁾

Resistance

-10°C (14°F)

4.4

V 7.0 - 11.4 kΩ

20°C (68°F)

3.5 V

2.37 - 2.63 kΩ

50°C (122°F)

2.2 V

0.68 - 1.00 kΩ

90°C (194°F)

0.9 V

0.236 - 0.260 kΩ

110°C (230°F)

0.6 V

0.143 - 0.153 kΩ

⁽¹⁾	These data are reference values on the diagnosis tool.

Fig 2: Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Resistance Graph

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.