Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Temperature sensors

2017 Nissan Serena Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors are absolutely used on the 2017 Nissan Serena (C27). Technical references including the Nissan C27 Serena Service Manual—Engine Control (EC), Air Conditioning/Auto Amp (HAC), and CVT Transmission (TM) sections—detail the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor (often integrated with the MAF), the outside/ambient temperature sensor for HVAC, and a CVT fluid temperature sensor within the transmission’s control body. Nissan parts catalogues and standard OBD-II diagnostics (e.g., P0115–P0119 for ECT) also support their fitment on this model.

The Serena relies on a handful of temperature sensors to keep things sweet under the bonnet and in the cabin. The ECT sensor lets the engine computer know how hot the coolant is, so it can sort cold starts, fuel trim, ignition timing, fan operation and the dash gauge. The IAT helps with fuelling and knock control by telling the ECU how warm the intake charge is. The ambient sensor up front feeds the climate control and the display so the air-con behaves properly. Inside the Xtronic CVT, a fluid temperature sensor helps manage shift strategy and protects the transmission if things get too hot.

They’re not typically scheduled service items, but they do benefit from a bit of attention during regular servicing. Keeping the cooling system in good nick (correct Nissan-approved long-life coolant, no leaks, clean connectors) helps the ECT live a long life. If coolant’s been changed, bleeding air from the system avoids false temperature readings. The IAT/MAF appreciates a clean air filter and careful handling—no oily cleaners on the sensing element. The ambient sensor sits behind the grille or bumper, check it isn’t damaged or dangling after a minor bump. The CVT temperature sensor is internal, its health really comes down to correct fluid specification and service intervals rather than hands-on replacement.

Common clues a temperature sensor is on the way out include hard cold starts, rough idle after warm-up, heavy fuel use, a fan that runs constantly, dash temp readings that don’t make sense, A/C behaving oddly, or a CVT that goes into protection mode on a hot day. Any of those paired with a check engine light is reason to scan for codes.

Replacement is straightforward for the ECT and ambient sensors: work on a dead-cold engine, capture and refill coolant to spec if removing the ECT, fit a new seal/O-ring, and follow the service manual torque values. After replacement, clear DTCs and verify live data matches reality. For CVT temperature faults, professional diagnosis is the go, as internal transmission work may be required.

• Use only the specified coolant and CVT fluid for the C27 Serena.
• Inspect connectors and wiring for corrosion or damage during routine services.
• If in doubt, verify with scan-tool live data before replacing parts.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Serena temperature sensors

Where are the temperature sensors located on a 2017 Serena?
The ECT screws into the engine’s coolant passage (near the thermostat or cylinder head), the IAT is usually part of the MAF in the air intake, the ambient sensor sits behind the front bumper/grille area, and the CVT fluid temperature sensor is internal to the transmission’s control body.

What symptoms point to a bad ECT on a Serena?
Expect hard cold starts, rich running, poor fuel economy, a temp gauge that never warms up or suddenly spikes, radiator fans running constantly, and codes like P0116 or P0117. Live data that shows impossible coolant temps (e.g., -40°C or 130°C) is a giveaway.

Can the CVT temperature sensor be replaced separately?
On the Serena’s Xtronic CVT, the temperature sensor is part of the valve body/control unit. Replacement typically isn’t a quick external swap and is best assessed by a transmission specialist. Often the real fix is fluid service, cooling checks, or valve body work rather than just the sensor.