2020 Nissan NV200 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Nissan NV200: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Nissan NV200 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Nissan NV200 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2020 Nissan NV200?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Nissan NV200, it's essential to approach the situation methodically to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the problem. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any obvious signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could indicate a more significant issue. If these initial checks do not resolve the concern, using an OBD-II scanner can be incredibly helpful. This tool will allow you to retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the problem more accurately. Be sure to consult your owner's manual to interpret these codes and explore potential solutions. If, after these steps, the cause remains elusive or the issue appears complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable to ensure your vehicle is properly diagnosed and repaired. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take the necessary steps to address any issues with your NV200.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2020 Nissan NV200?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2020 Nissan NV200, it often signals a range of common issues that can be addressed with some basic DIY knowledge. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapors escaping and is easily rectified by ensuring the cap is securely tightened. Another common problem is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this sensor can often restore optimal performance. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, may trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Spark plug or ignition coil failures can also cause engine misfires, leading to the check engine light activation, and these components are relatively straightforward to replace for those with basic mechanical skills. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while problems with the EGR valve can affect emissions and engine performance. Other potential issues include fuel system problems, such as a clogged fuel filter, and various sensor malfunctions that can be diagnosed with an OBD-II scanner. Lastly, electrical system problems, including wiring issues or a failing battery, can also cause the check engine light to activate. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's performance but also prevents further damage, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to be aware of these common triggers.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Nissan NV200?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Nissan NV200, it signals a need for immediate attention, as neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences. The light may indicate anything from a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, to more severe problems that could compromise engine performance or safety. Ignoring the light can result in decreased fuel efficiency and potential engine damage, which can be costly to repair. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it’s essential to first utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue at hand. However, while some minor fixes may be manageable at home, it’s crucial to recognize when a problem exceeds your expertise. If the codes suggest a more complex issue, seeking professional assistance is advisable to prevent further complications and ensure the longevity of your vehicle. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only safeguards your Nissan NV200’s performance but also enhances your safety on the road.

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