The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most important elements of the engine management system. Nissan Almera Classic (N16). Without its correct operation, the ECU will not be able to determine the moment of fuel and spark supply, which will lead to startup failure or unstable operation of the engine. Owners of this model often encounter problems related to the sensor, but not everyone knows where exactly is it located and how to quickly check it.

In this article you will find not only the exact location of the DPKV with photographs and diagrams, but also practical diagnostic instructions, including error codes that indicate its malfunction. We will also look at what tools are needed for replacement and what to look for when purchasing a new sensor to avoid counterfeits.

Exact location of the crankshaft sensor on Almera Classic (N16)

On Nissan Almera Classic with engines QG15DE (1.5 l) and QG18DE (1.8 L) crankshaft sensor is installed in the same place - on oil pump, next to the crankshaft pulley. To see it you need to:

  1. Open the hood and remove the engine upper protective cover (if installed).
  2. Inspect the right side of the cylinder block (in the direction of travel of the vehicle) near the drive belt.
  3. The sensor is secured with one bolt to 10 mm and has a two-pin connector with a wire going to the ECU.

Visually, the DPKV is a small cylindrical body of black or gray color with a metal core. The photographs below show its exact location relative to other elements of the engine compartment.

Photo of the sensor location (clickable)

On most Almera Classics, the sensor is located to the right of the oil filter, just below the cooling system pipe. It is directed with the core towards the ring gear of the crankshaft pulley, which rotates when the engine is running.

Engine DPKV location Fastening Wire length to connector (cm)
QG15DE (1.5 l) Oil pump, right side of block Bolt M6 × 1.0 ~30 cm
QG18DE (1.8 l) Oil pump, right side of block Bolt M6 × 1.0 ~35 cm
QR20DE (2.0 l, rare) Timing chain cover, left side Bolt M8 × 1.25 ~40 cm

Important! On some modifications Almera Classic After 2006, the sensor may be slightly shifted closer to the generator. If you do not find it in the standard place, check the area around the crankshaft pulley - there should be a characteristic connector with a lock there.

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor: how to recognize the problem

A faulty DPKV manifests itself with several symptoms at once, which are difficult to confuse with other breakdowns. Here key featuresindicating problems with the sensor:

  • 🚨 Engine won't start or stalls immediately after starting (there is no signal about the crankshaft position).
  • ⚡ Misfires at idle or under load, especially in wet weather.
  • 📉 Power drop and "failures" When accelerating, it's as if the car is "jerking".
  • 🔧 Lights up on the dashboard Check Engine with errors P0335 or P0336.
  • 🔄 Engine stalls spontaneously while running and then starts again.

Feature Almera Classic is that if the DPKV fails, the ECU may go into emergency modeusing signals from the camshaft sensor. In this case, the car will work, but with serious interruptions and increased fuel consumption.

📊 What symptom of DPKV malfunction have you encountered?
  • Engine won't start
  • Misfires
  • Check engine light on
  • Power drop
  • Other
⚠️ Attention! If your Almera Classic starts misfiring only in wet weather, the problem may lie not in the sensor itself, but in oxidation of connector contacts or damaged wire insulation. Before replacing the DPKV, be sure to check the integrity of the wiring with a multimeter.

How to check the crankshaft sensor on Almera Classic: 3 working methods

Diagnosis of DPCV can be carried out independently without specialized equipment. Below - three proven methods, which are used by experienced auto electricians.

1. Checking the winding resistance

To do this you will need a multimeter in ohmmeter mode:

  1. Disconnect the sensor connector (press the lock and pull up).
  2. Connect the multimeter probes to the sensor contacts (polarity is not important).
  3. The resistance of a serviceable DPKV should be within the limits 550–750 Ohm.

If the indicator is lower 500 Ohm or tends to infinity - the sensor is faulty.

2. Inductance check

A more accurate method that requires a megohmmeter or oscilloscope. Normal inductance values for Almera Classic — 200–400 mH. If the device shows 0 or the value is very high, the sensor must be replaced.

3. Visual inspection and signal verification

Inspect the sensor for:

  • 🔍 Cracks or chips on the case.
  • 🧲 The presence of metal shavings on the core (indicates wear of the pulley ring gear).
  • 🔌 Oxidation of contacts in the connector (cleaned with alcohol or special spray).

To check the signal:

  1. Connect an oscilloscope to the sensor pins (or use an LED probe).
  2. Crank the engine with the starter (without starting it).
  3. A working sensor should output pulse signal with an amplitude of at least 0.3 V.

☑️ Checklist before replacing DPKV

Done: 0 / 4

Catalog numbers and analogues of the crankshaft sensor for Almera Classic

Original crankshaft sensor for Nissan Almera Classic has an article number 23731-4M000 or 23731-4M005 (depending on the year of manufacture). However, it can be replaced with high-quality analogues from trusted manufacturers:

Manufacturer Article Price (RUB) Notes
Nissan (original) 23731-4M000 2 500–3 200 Best quality but high price
Bosch 0 261 210 115 1 800–2 300 Optimal price/quality ratio
ERA 550433 1 200–1 500 Budget option, suitable for temporary replacement
Blue Print ADT31903 1 600–1 900 Good reviews, but there are fakes

Important! When purchasing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 📦 Packaging (must be branded, with a hologram).
  • 🔍 Marking on the sensor body (matches the original).
  • 📏 Length of the wire (for analogues it may differ by ±5 cm).
⚠️ Attention! There are often fake branded sensors on the market Bosch with article number 0 261 210 115. The original has a clear engraving of the logo and serial number on the case, as well as a blue plastic connector retainer.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor on Almera Classic

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera Classic takes no more than 20 minutes and does not require special skills. You will need:

  • 🔧 Socket wrench or socket on 10 mm.
  • 🔩 Extension or ratchet handle.
  • 🧴 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant (if the bolt is soured).
  • 📦 New sensor (check the contents before installation).

Procedure:

  1. Disable negative battery terminal (required!).
  2. Press the latch and disconnect the sensor connector.
  3. Treat the mounting bolt with WD-40 and wait 2-3 minutes.
  4. Unscrew the bolt with a wrench 10 mm and carefully remove the sensor.
  5. Clean the seat from dirt (you can use alcohol).
  6. Install the new sensor, tighten the bolt to torque 8–10 Nm.
  7. Connect the connector until the latch clicks.
  8. Connect the battery terminal and start the engine to test.

After replacement be sure to clear errors with the ECU, even if Check Engine went out on its own. To do this:

  1. Disconnect the battery for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Or use a diagnostic scanner (for example, ELM327) to reset codes.
💡

If after replacing the sensor the engine still does not start, check the integrity of the ring gear on the crankshaft pulley. Sometimes the teeth break or wear out, resulting in no signal.

Common mistakes when replacing DPKV and how to avoid them

Even something as simple as replacing a crankshaft sensor can turn into problems if mistakes are made. That's what most often done wrong:

  • 🔧 Tightening the fastening bolt — leads to deformation of the sensor body or failure of the thread in the block. The tightening torque should not exceed 10 Nm.
  • 🧲 Installing a sensor with a dirty core — metal shavings or dirt distort the signal. Before installation, wipe the core with alcohol.
  • 🔌 Incomplete connector connection - if the latch does not click, the contact will be unreliable, which will cause an error P0335.
  • 📦 Using a sensor from another model - even if it is externally identical, the signal parameters may differ. Always check the catalogue.

Another common problem is wire damage when removing the sensor. On Almera Classic the wire runs in a bundle along the cylinder block and often rubs against the brackets. Before installing a new sensor, inspect the wire for:

  • 🔍 Scuffs of insulation (especially near the connector).
  • 🔥 Reflows (indicates a short circuit).
  • 💧 Traces of oil (may eat away insulation).
💡

If after replacing the sensor the error P0336 (“Incorrect DPKV signal”) remains, the problem may lie in a faulty ECU or an open circuit in the power supply. In this case, diagnostics at a service station is required.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Almera Classic

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The ECU will use backup algorithms, but the engine will lose power, fuel consumption will increase, and over time the ignition coils or fuel injectors may fail due to improper timing.

Which crankshaft sensor is better to choose for Almera Classic - original or analogue?

Original sensor (23731-4M000) is guaranteed to last longer, but if the budget is limited, you can take Bosch (0 261 210 115) - it is practically not inferior in quality. Best budget options Blue Printthan ERA.

Why does the engine run unstable after replacing the sensor?

There are several reasons:

  1. Errors in the ECU have not been reset (you need to disconnect the battery or use a scanner).
  2. The new sensor is defective (check resistance).
  3. The crankshaft pulley ring gear is damaged (needs inspection).
  4. The connector is not connected correctly (check the lock).
Is it possible to clean an old crankshaft sensor?

Cleaning is only possible externally — remove dirt from the body and core with alcohol. If the problem is an internal fault (winding break, crack), the sensor must only be replaced. Attempts to “reanimate” it often lead to repeated breakdowns.

What other sensors can cause similar symptoms?

Malfunctions show similar signs:

  • Camshaft sensor (P0340).
  • Knock sensor (P0325).
  • High voltage wires or ignition coils.
  • Fuel pump (low rail pressure).

For accurate diagnosis, you need a scanner that shows error codes.