<em>Nissan Murano Z51</em>Crankshaft Sensor: Symptoms and Replacement Guide

Nissan Murano Z51 (2009–2014) with engine VQ35DE is a reliable crossover, but even it is not immune to problems with the crankshaft position sensor (CPS). This small sensor plays a critical role in the operation of the injection and ignition system: without correct data on the position of the crankshaft, the ECU will not be able to synchronize fuel supply and spark. In 80% of cases, a sensor malfunction leads to complete stop of the engine or inability to start it, and diagnosis is often complicated by similar symptoms to problems with the ignition coils or fuel pump.

In this article we will look at how to accurately identify a faulty DPKV on Murano Z51, what error codes indicate its failure, and how to replace the sensor yourself - taking into account the nuances of its location on the engine VQ35DE. We will also provide data on original articles, analogues and average prices for spare parts in 2026.

Functions of the crankshaft sensor and its role in engine operation VQ35DE

Crankshaft position sensor (CPS, or CKP sensor) is the only sensor without which the engine Nissan Murano Z51 won't start. Its task is to transmit data about:

• 🔄 Angular position crankshaft (to synchronize injection and ignition).
• ⚡ Rotational speed (rpm) - used to calculate the load and adjust the composition of the fuel mixture.
• 📊 Direction of rotation (important to prevent kickback when starting).

On the engine VQ35DE is installed inductive DPKV (magnetic type), which reads the signal from the ring gear on the flywheel. The peculiarity of this motor is absence of a separate ring on the crankshaft: The teeth are milled directly onto the flywheel, which simplifies the design, but complicates diagnosis if the teeth are damaged.

If the sensor fails, the ECU loses its “reference point” for calculations. Unlike the camshaft sensor (CMP), which is responsible for valve timing, DPKV - critical for startup. For example, if the DPKV wire breaks, the engine will stall instantly, while a malfunction of the camshaft sensor may only appear in idle mode.

Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Murano Z51

Symptoms of DPKV malfunction are often disguised as other problems, but there are key signs that help narrow down your search:

⚠️ Attention: If the engine Murano Z51 stalls while driving and won't start again, but lights up on the dashboard CHECK ENGINE — first of all, check the DPKV. In 60% of such cases, it is he who is to blame, and not the immobilizer or ECU.

• 🚗 Engine won't start (the starter turns, but there is no flash in the cylinders).
• 🔥 Misfires on all cylinders at the same time (unlike coils, where the leaks are localized).
• 📉 Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm) for no apparent reason.
• 💥 Detonation during acceleration due to incorrect ignition timing.
• 🔌 Power Loss and “dullness” of the engine when accelerating.

A distinctive feature of a faulty DPKV on Murano Z51 — no spark on all spark plugs. This is due to the fact that the ECU, without a signal about the crankshaft position, blocks the operation of the ignition coils. You can check this by unscrewing the spark plug and turning the starter: if there is no spark at all, the DPKV or its wiring is to blame.

Error codes indicating problems with DPKV

When scanning Nissan Murano Z51 using a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327) DPKV malfunction is manifested by the following codes:

Error code	Description	Probable Cause
P0335	Crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction	Wire break, contact oxidation, short circuit
P0336	DPKV signal range/performance out of normal range	Sensor damage, contamination, mechanical misalignment
P0337	Low signal level of the DPKV circuit	Poor contact in the connector, damage to the shielding braid
P0338	High signal level of the DPKV circuit	Short circuit to +12V, damage to the internal circuitry of the sensor

Important: codes P0340–P0344 refer to camshaft sensor (CMP), not the crankshaft. If the ECU memory contains DPKV and DPPV errors at the same time, first check the crankshaft - its malfunction can cause false alarms of the camshaft sensor.

On Murano Z51 DPKV errors are often accompanied lamp lighting CHECK ENGINE and the ECU goes into emergency mode (speed limit to 3000 rpm). However, in some cases (for example, with intermittent contact), the error may appear sporadically, which complicates diagnosis.

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Murano Z51

On the engine VQ35DE The crankshaft position sensor is located on the back of the cylinder block, next to the flywheel. Exact location:

• 📍 Transmission side (from the cabin side).
• 🔧 Attached one 10 mm bolt.
• 🔌 The connector is directed up and left (to the spar).

To gain access to DPKV, you must:

1. Remove air filter (unscrew the 4 cover bolts and loosen the pipe clamp).
2. Disconnect MAF sensor connector (mass air flow sensor).
3. Remove plastic engine cover (held on by 4 clips).
4. Unscrew accelerator cable bracket (2 bolts 12 mm).

After this, the sensor will be visible from below, next to where the box is attached to the engine. For convenience, it is recommended to use mirror with telescopic handle or an endoscope, as space is limited.

Photo of DPKV location

On most Murano Z51 The crankshaft sensor is located to the right of the flywheel when viewed from the box side. It is screwed into the cylinder block at an angle of ~45° and has a black plastic connector with a lock. It is often confused with the knock sensor, which is located higher and has a round metal housing.

How to check the crankshaft sensor for Murano Z51 multimeter

Before replacing the DPKV, be sure to check its performance. For this you will need multimeter with resistance and voltage measurement mode. Verification algorithm:

1. Disconnect the sensor connector (press the latch and pull up)|

2. Set the multimeter to ohmmeter mode (200-2000 ohms)|

3. Measure the resistance between contacts 1 and 2 of the sensor |

4. Check the power circuit (pin 2 - ground, pin 1 - +5V from the computer) -->

Normal indicators for DPKV Murano Z51:

• 🔹 Winding resistance: 500–700 Ohm (at 20°C).
• 🔹 Supply voltage: 4.8–5.2 V (between pin 1 and ground).
• 🔹 Signal when cranking with starter: 0.3–1.5 V (alternating voltage).

If the winding resistance 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break), the sensor must be replaced. Also pay attention to:

• 🛠️ Wire integrity (often rubbed against the box bracket).
• 🧲 Cleanliness of the sensor end (metal shavings or dirt distort the signal).
• 🔌 Oxidation of contacts in the connector (especially important after washing the engine).

⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z51 With an automatic transmission, when checking the DPKV, be sure to remove the “–” terminal from the battery! The transmission ECU may produce false signals to the sensor if the ignition is turned on.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Murano Z51 takes ~30 minutes and does not require special tools. You will need:

• 🔧 Head on 10 mm (for fastening bolt).
• 🔧 Extension cord and ratchet.
• 🧴 Copper grease (for the thread of the new sensor).
• 🧹 Rags (for cleaning the seat).

Procedure:

1. Disconnect the battery (remove the “–” terminal).
2. Disconnect the connector DPKV (press the plastic lock and pull up).
3. Unscrew the fastening bolt (10 mm head). Be careful - the bolt often gets stuck!
4. Remove the sensor, rocking it from side to side. If it doesn't work, spray it WD-40 and wait 5 minutes.
5. Clean the seat from dirt and metal shavings (use a magnet).
6. Install a new sensor, having previously lubricated the bolt threads with copper grease.
7. Tighten the bolt moment 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).
8. Connect the connector and replace the battery terminal.

After replacement be sure to clear errors through a scanner or by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes. If the engine does not start, check:

• 🔌 The connector is connected correctly (the latch should click).
• 🔧 Tightening the bolt (an undertightened bolt leads to vibration of the sensor).
• 📊 Presence of metal shavings at the end of the new sensor (if there is any, remove it).

💡

On Murano Z51 after replacing the DPKV it may be necessary throttle valve relearning (procedure Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning). To do this, you need to turn on the ignition for 10 seconds without starting the engine, then turn it off and repeat 3 times.

Original articles and analogues of the crankshaft sensor

For Nissan Murano Z51 (2009–2014) with engine VQ35DE The following sensors are suitable:

Type	Article	Manufacturer	Average price (2026)
Original	23731-AL50A	Nissan	3 500–4 200 ₽
Analogue	SS10103	Standard Motor Products (USA)	2 100–2 500 ₽
Analogue	555-10500	Beck/Arnley (Japan)	2 300–2 800 ₽
Analogue	Crank-001	ERA (Italy)	1 800–2 200 ₽

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 📏 Body length (original - 58 mm).
• 🧲 Connector type (must be compatible with original block).
• 🔧 carving (M12×1.25, same as the original).

Cheap sensors (for example, Chinese ones without a brand) often have winding resistance mismatch, which leads to unstable engine operation. The optimal choice in terms of price/quality ratio - Standard Motor Products (SS10103).

Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor Nissan Murano Z51

Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

No. The engine will either not start or will operate in emergency mode with misfires. Driving for a long time with a faulty DPKV leads to catalyst overheating and increased wear of the piston group.

How to distinguish a faulty DPKV from a problem with the camshaft sensor?

If the DPKV engine malfunctions won't start at all or stalls immediately after starting. Camshaft sensor (P0340) usually causes failures during acceleration or rough idle, but the engine continues to run.

What happens if the DPKV is installed incorrectly?

If the sensor is not screwed in completely or skewed, the signal will be distorted. This will lead to:

• 🔥 Misfires in all cylinders.
• 📉 Limit speed to 2000–2500 rpm.
• 🚨 Sunbathing CHECK ENGINE with code P0336.

Also possible contact of the sensor housing with the flywheel, which will lead to its destruction.

Do I need to reset the ECU after replacing the DPKV?

Resetting to zero (resetting adaptations) is not necessary, but is recommended if:

• Engine won't start after replacement.
• The panel lights up CHECK ENGINE, despite the errors being reset.
• Revolutions swim at idle speed.

To reset, disconnect the battery for 15 minutes or use a scanner (function ECU Reset).

Is it possible to clean the old DPKV instead of replacing it?

Cleaning is possible if the problem is contamination of the end (oil film, metal shavings). Use:

• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning contacts).
• 🧲 Magnet (to remove chips).
• 🧹 Lint-free rags.

If the sensor has mechanical damage (cracks, melting) or does not pass the test with a multimeter - replacement is required.