The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most important elements of the engine management system. Nissan Almera G15. Its malfunction leads to engine malfunctions, difficult starting or a complete stop of the car. Owners of this model often face the question: where is the crankshaft sensor located on Almere G15 and how to quickly detect it without unnecessary disassembly?

In this article you will find exact coordinates of the location of the DPKV for engines HR15DE (1.5 l) and HR16DE (1.6 l), detailed photos indicating fasteners, as well as step-by-step instructions for diagnostics and replacement. We will analyze typical symptoms of a malfunction, which are often confused with problems with spark plugs or ignition coils, and give practical advice on choosing a new sensor. We will pay special attention unique feature of mounting the DPKV on the Almere G15 - it can be dismantled without removing the crankcase protection, if you know a little trick.

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on the Nissan Almera G15: photo and diagram

On Nissan Almera G15 (2012–2019) The crankshaft position sensor is installed at the bottom of the cylinder block, next to the flywheel. Exact location:

  • 🔧 To the right of the engine (if you look in the direction of travel of the car), next to the gearbox.
  • 📍 At a height of 10–15 cm from the pallet - slightly above the oil level, but below the crankshaft axis.
  • 🔌 Fastened with one M6 bolt (10 mm head) and is fixed in a special socket.
  • 🔗 Connected to wiring harness through a connector with a lock (black or gray plastic).

The photo below shows the location of the DPKV on the engine HR15DE (similar for HR16DE):

Photo of DPKV location (click to view)

The image shows a sensor (highlighted in a red circle), which is installed at the end of the cylinder block, next to the flywheel ring gear. The connector is directed towards the front bumper.

To get to the sensor, it is not necessary to lift the car on a lift. Enough:

  1. Remove right side of plastic protection (if installed).
  2. Disconnect the power connector by pressing the latch.
  3. Unscrew the fastening bolt with a 10 mm wrench.
💡

If the DPKV fastening bolt is stuck, do not try to unscrew it by force - use a penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) and let it run for 10–15 minutes. This will prevent stripping of the threads in the aluminum block.

Signs of a bad crankshaft sensor: how to distinguish it from other problems

Symptoms of DPKV failure on Nissan Almera G15 often coincide with malfunctions of other systems. For example, misfire may indicate problems with the spark plugs, and unstable idle - for clogged throttle valve. However there is unique signs that directly indicate CPPV:

Symptom Probable Cause How to check
Engine won't start, the starter turns DPKV does not transmit a signal to the ECU Check the voltage at the sensor connector (should be 5 V)
Lights up Check Engine, error P0335 DPKV circuit malfunction Read the codes with a scanner (for example, ELM327)
Engine stalls while driving and won't start "hot" The sensor overheats and fails Check winding resistance (normal: 500-700 ohms)
Detonation during acceleration (knock of "fingers") Ignition timing failure Diagnose with an oscilloscope or by replacing with a known-good sensor

⚠️ Attention: If the dashboard lights up Check Engine, but the engine runs smoothly, do not rush to change the DPKV. First check:

  • 🔌 Connector status — oxidation of contacts or broken wires.
  • 🛠️ Flywheel ring gear — chipped or damaged teeth.
  • 📶 Shielding harness — interference from high-voltage wires.
📊 What symptom of DPKV malfunction have you encountered?
  • Engine won't start
  • The revolutions are floating
  • Stalls while driving
  • Check Engine without other symptoms
  • Another option

How to check the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera G15: 3 methods

Before replacing the DPKV, be sure to check whether it is faulty. Suitable for diagnosis:

  1. Checking with a multimeter:
    • 🔋 Measure the resistance between the sensor terminals (standard: 500–700 Ohm).
    • 🔌 Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (pin 1: +5 V, pin 2: mass).
  2. Diagnostics with an oscilloscope (exact method):
    • 📊 Connect to the signal wire (usually the middle pin).
    • 🔄 When scrolling with the starter, a smooth sinusoid without gaps should be displayed.
  3. Replacing with a known good one (fastest way):
    • 🔄 Take a sensor from another car or buy a new one for testing.
    • 🚗 If the symptoms disappear, the problem is in DPKV.

⚠️ Attention: When checking with a multimeter, do not pierce the wire insulation with needles - this may cause a short circuit. Use special samplers-clothespins or carefully cut the insulation with a utility knife.

Check the sensor resistance (500-700 ohms)|Make sure there is 5V at the connector|Inspect the flywheel ring gear|Check the circuit for an open circuit (test with a multimeter)-->

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera G15 takes no more than 20 minutes. You will need:

  • 🔧 10 mm wrench (head or open-end).
  • 🔌 Flat blade screwdriver (for connector lock).
  • 🧴 Penetrating lubricant (e.g. Liqui Moly LM-40).
  • 🧤 Gloves (protection from dirt and oil).

Sequence of actions:

  1. Disable negative battery terminal (required!).
  2. Remove the plastic protection (if installed) or bend it to the side.
  3. Press the DPKV connector latch and disconnect it.
  4. Unscrew the fastening bolt with a 10 mm wrench.
  5. Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side (do not pull by force!).
  6. Install a new DPKV, aligning it with the mounting socket.
  7. Tighten the bolt (tightening torque: 8–10 Nm).
  8. Connect the connector until the latch clicks.

⚠️ Attention: When installing a new sensor do not use sealant - it can get on the sensitive element and damage the DPKV. The seating area must be clean and dry.

💡

After replacing the DPKV, be sure to clear errors from the ECU memory using a scanner or disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes. Otherwise Check Engine may remain burning.

Which crankshaft sensor to choose for Nissan Almera G15: original vs analogues

Original DPKV for Almera G15 has an article number 23731-4M000 (manufacturer - Hitachi). Its average price: 2500–3500 ₽. However, there are high-quality analogues on the market that are cheaper:

Manufacturer Article Price, ₽ Features
Hitachi (original) 23731-4M000 2500–3500 12 months warranty, exact compatibility
DENSO 550-0103 1800–2200 High quality, used on conveyor Nissan
BOSCH 0 261 210 115 1500–1900 Universal, fits many models
ERA 550433 900–1200 Budget option, average quality

💡 Advice: When purchasing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 📏 Body length - must match the original (about 60 mm).
  • 🔌 Connector type — Almere G15 uses a 3-pin connector.
  • 🧲 Magnetic field — a high-quality sensor should attract metal objects.

Avoid cheap Chinese analogues without a brand - they often fail after 10-20 thousand km. Optimal choice in terms of price/quality ratio: DENSO or BOSCH.

Common mistakes when replacing DPKV and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with the crankshaft sensor. Here are the most common:

  1. Using sealant:

    Many people apply sealant to the bolt threads or sensor body, fearing air leaks. This causes silicone to contact the sensing element and instantaneous failure of the DPKV.

  2. Incorrect tightening torque:

    An overtightened bolt deforms the sensor body, and a loose tightening leads to vibrations and false signals. Optimal moment: 8–10 Nm.

  3. Ignoring Gap:

    There must be a gap between the end of the sensor and the flywheel ring gear 0.5–1.5 mm. If it is larger, the signal will be weak.

  4. Connector damage:

    When disconnecting the latch, many people break the plastic latches. As a result, the connector dangles and contact is lost.

🔧 How to avoid problems:

  • 📐 Before installation, check the gap with a flat feeler gauge.
  • 🔩 Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt.
  • 🧴 Clean the seat from oil and dirt carb cleaner.
What to do if after replacing the DPKV the engine does not start?

1. Check the connector connection - it should click.

2. Make sure that the sensor is installed all the way (sometimes it “hangs” by 1–2 mm).

3. Reset ECU errors with a scanner or by disconnecting the battery.

4. Check the integrity of the signal wire (it often rubs against the edge of the block).

Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. DPKV is a critical element. Without its signal, the ECU cannot determine the position of the crankshaft, and the engine either will not start or will run intermittently. Driving for a long time with a faulty sensor will lead to:

  • 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (due to incorrect fuel mixture).
  • 💥 Detonation and damage to pistons.
  • 🚗 Complete engine stop while moving.
What tool is needed to replace the DPKV?

Minimum set:

  • 🔧 10 mm wrench (preferably a head with a ratchet).
  • 🔌 Flat blade screwdriver (for connector lock).
  • 🧴 Penetrating lubricant (if the bolt is stuck).
  • 📱 Scanner for resetting errors (for example, ELM327).

Additionally you may need:

  • 📏 Feeler gauge for checking the gap.
  • 🔋 Multimeter (for diagnostics).
How much does it cost to replace the DPKV in the service?

Cost of work in a car service:

  • 💰 Diagnostics: 500–1000 ₽.
  • 🔧 Replacing the sensor: 800–1500 ₽.

Total with spare part: 3500–5000 ₽ (if you use the original). Replacing it yourself will save you up to 2000 ₽.

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

Cleaning the DPKV is possible, but not always effective. If the problem is:

  • 🧲 Contamination of the magnetic core - wipe it with a lint-free cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
  • 🔌 Oxidation of contacts - clean them with an eraser or a special spray (for example, Kontakt 60).

If the sensor is faulty due to a broken winding or mechanical damage, cleaning will not help - only replacement.

What ECU errors indicate problems with DPKV?

Main fault codes:

  • P0335 — sensor circuit malfunction.
  • P0336 — DPKV signal is outside the permissible range.
  • P0337 — low signal level.
  • P0338 — high signal level.

These errors can also appear if there are problems with the wiring or the flywheel gear, so comprehensive diagnostics are required.