Where is the crankshaft sensor located on the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy: photos, signs of malfunction and replacement

The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most important sensors in the engine management system. Nissan Bluebird Sylphy. Its malfunction leads to malfunctions of the engine: from unstable idling to complete failure to start. Owners of this model often face the question: where exactly is the crankshaft sensor located? and how to check it without contacting service?

In this article you will find exact coordinates of DPKV placement on Bluebird Sylphy (body G10 And G11, engines HR16DE, MR20DE), and also unique malfunction symptoms specific to this model. We will look at how to distinguish a sensor failure from problems with the wiring or ECU, and provide step-by-step diagnostic instructions with photos and videos.

The exact location of the crankshaft sensor on the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy

On Nissan Bluebird Sylphy The crankshaft position sensor is installed at the bottom of the engine, next to the flywheel. The specific location depends on the engine type:

• 🔧 Engine HR16DE (1.6 l): DPKV is on rear of the cylinder block, to the right of the oil filter. Attaches with one bolt to 10 mm.
• 🔧 Engine MR20DE (2.0 l): Sensor positioned under the thermostat, closer to the gearbox. Access to it is difficult due to the cooling system pipes.

To see the sensor you will need remove engine protection (if installed) and use a flashlight. The photo below shows its typical location on HR16DE:

Photo of the location of the DPKV on HR16DE

*The image shows the sensor (marked with a red circle) and the mounting bolt. Pay attention to the distance to the flywheel - it should be 0.5–1.0 mm.*

Important: on Sylphy with automatic transmission, access to the sensor may be blocked box mounting bracket. In this case, you will need to partially dismantle it or use extended socket wrench.

Signs of DPKV malfunction: how to distinguish it from other problems

Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Bluebird Sylphy often coincide with signs of breakdowns in other systems. However there is characteristic features, which help to accurately identify the problem:

Symptom	Probable Cause	How to check
The engine does not start, the starter turns	DPKV does not send a signal to the ECU	Test the circuit with a multimeter (resistance 500–700 ohms)
Floating idle speed (500–1500 rpm)	Unstable sensor signal	Checking with an oscilloscope or diagnostic scanner
Jerking when accelerating at speeds of 2000–3000 rpm	Misfires due to DPKV failures	Reading errors P0335 or P0336
Lights up Check Engine after the engine warms up	Thermal expansion of the sensor or oxidation of contacts	Visual inspection of the connector and measurement of resistance in a hot state

⚠️ Attention: If the dashboard lights up Check Engine, but the scanner shows an error P0300 (multiple misfires), do not rush to change spark plugs or coils. On Bluebird Sylphy This error often appears precisely because faulty DPKV, which gives false signals about the position of the shaft.

One more unique trait for Sylphy: when the sensor fails The cooling fan starts running at maximum speed even on a cold engine. This is due to the fact that the ECU goes into emergency mode and activates all protection systems.

How to check the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Bluebird Sylphy: 3 methods

Diagnosis of DPCV can be carried out independently, without specialized equipment. We will analyze three methods - from the simplest to the professional.

Method 1: Visual inspection (5 minutes)

The first thing to do is inspect the sensor and its connector:

• 🔍 Check it out sensor housing integrity. Cracks or chips are a sign of mechanical damage.
• 🔌 Take a look connector and wires. On Sylphy The insulation near the sensor mount often wears out.
• 🧲 Make sure there is no sensor at the end metal shavings — it can block the signal.

Method 2: Test with a multimeter (15 minutes)

To do this, you will need a multimeter with resistance measurement mode:

1. Disconnect the sensor connector.
2. Set the multimeter to mode 2000 Ohm.
3. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals (polarity is not important).
4. Normal resistance for Bluebird Sylphy: 550–750 Ohm.

⚠️ Attention: If resistance 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break), the sensor must be replaced. Also check insulation resistance between the sensor terminals and the housing - it must be at least 20 MOhm.

Method 3: Diagnostics with an oscilloscope (advanced)

This method requires USB oscilloscope (For example, Hantek) or a diagnostic scanner with a signal viewing function. Algorithm of actions:

Connect the oscilloscope to the signal wire of the sensor (usually the middle pin)

Start the engine (or crank the starter)

The screen should display sinusoid with amplitude 0.5–2.0 V

Check signal stability at different speeds

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On Nissan Bluebird Sylphy common problem — “sawtooth” DPKV signal, which indicates incorrect clearance between sensor and flywheel. Normal distance: 0.5–1.2 mm.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

If diagnostics confirm a faulty DPKV, it must be replaced. For Nissan Bluebird Sylphy Sensors with article numbers are suitable:

• 📌 Original: 23731-4M010 (for HR16DE), 23731-5M500 (for MR20DE)
• 📌 Analogues: Bosch 0 261 210 115, Denso 550-0101

Tools you will need:

• 🔧 Socket wrench on 10 mm (extended for MR20DE)
• 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for removing the connector lock)
• 🔧 Gap gauge (optional)

Step by step replacement process:

1. Disable negative battery terminal.
2. Remove engine protection (if installed).
3. Disconnect sensor connectorby pressing the latch.
4. Unscrew mounting bolt and carefully remove the sensor.
5. Clean the seat from dirt and metal shavings.
6. Install new sensor, keeping the gap 0.5–1.2 mm.
7. Connect the connector and check the operation of the engine.

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 of them using an example: Nissan Bluebird Sylphy:

⚠️ Attention: Never use metal tools to clean the sensor seat! The slightest chip that gets between the DPKV and the flywheel will lead to repeated malfunction after 100–200 km.

• ❌ Incorrect clearance: If the sensor is installed too close or too far from the flywheel, the signal will be unstable. Use plastic dipstick for precise adjustment.
• ❌ Connector damage: On Sylphy The DPKV connector retainer is very fragile. Do not pull on the wires - only on the housing!
• ❌ Ignoring ECU errors: After replacing the sensor, be sure to check if there are any errors left in the ECU memory P0335 or P0340. They may indicate circuit or timing problems.

Another common mistake is purchasing a non-original sensor without checking compatibility. For example, DPKV from Nissan Almera N16 similar in appearance, but has a different resistance (400–500 Ohm) and is not suitable for Sylphy.

How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft sensor: 2026 prices

The cost of labor and spare parts varies depending on the region and type of service. Below is the current price table for Nissan Bluebird Sylphy:

Name	Original (₽)	Analogue (₽)	Service work (₽)
Crankshaft sensor (HR16DE)	3 200–4 500	1 800–2 500	1 500–2 000
Crankshaft sensor (MR20DE)	3 800–5 000	2 200–3 000	2 000–2 500
Diagnostics (checking DPKV)	—	—	800–1 200
Comprehensive replacement (sensor + error reset)	—	—	3 500–4 500

Tip: if you buy used sensor, be sure to check its resistance and condition of the connector. On Bluebird Sylphy often come across sensors with damaged winding, which is not visible from the outside.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy

Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The engine will operate in emergency mode with reduced power, increased fuel consumption (up to 15–20 l/100 km) and the risk of damage to the catalyst due to improper combustion of the fuel.

What clearance should be between the sensor and the flywheel?

For Nissan Bluebird Sylphy optimal clearance - 0.5–1.2 mm. If the gap is larger, the signal will be weak; if less, there is a risk of mechanical damage to the sensor.

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor if it is dirty?

Yes, but only in-place method. Use electrical contact cleaner (For example, WD-40 Specialist) and a soft brush. Do not disassemble the sensor - this will break the seal.

What ECU errors indicate problems with DPKV?

Basic codes:

• P0335 - DPKV circuit malfunction
• P0336 — sensor signal goes beyond acceptable limits
• P0340 — discrepancy between the signals DPKV and DPRV (camshaft sensor)

On Sylphy may also appear P0300 (misfire) as a secondary error.

Do I need to reset adaptations after replacing the DPKV?

Yes, especially if the engine was running in emergency mode. To do this:

1. Disconnect the battery for 10–15 minutes.
2. Connect the scanner and reset the errors.
3. Drive 10–15 km to gentle mode (without sudden acceleration) so that the ECU adapts again.