Nissan Wingroad is a popular compact van known for its reliability, but even it is not immune to problems with electronics. One of the most insidious knots is Crankshaft position sensor (CPS), whose malfunction can immobilize the car at the most inopportune moment. Unlike temperature or air flow sensors, DPKV does not have redundant systems, and its failure leads to a complete stop of the engine.

In this article we will look at how recognize a faulty crankshaft sensor on Wingroad (including models with engines GA16DE, QG18DE And MR20DE), which errors it generates, and how to replace it without contacting service. We will pay special attention unique feature of DPKV on Nissan Wingroad: its location next to the flywheel, which complicates access and requires removal of the starter on some modifications.

Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Wingroad

The DPKV transmits data about the position and speed of rotation of the crankshaft to the ECU, so its malfunction appears immediately and unambiguously. Here are the key symptoms:

  • 🚨 Engine won't start — the starter turns, but there is no spark and no fuel injection. This is the most obvious sign, since the ECU without a signal from the DPKV blocks the operation of the ignition system.
  • ⚡ Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm) - indicates an unstable sensor signal.
  • 🔧 Power Loss and “failures” during acceleration, especially at speeds above 3000 - the ECU goes into emergency mode.
  • 💡 Check Engine lights up 2-3 seconds after starting or while driving.

On Wingroad With an automatic transmission, a faulty DPKV can also cause jerks when changing gears, since the transmission ECU uses the crankshaft signal for synchronization.

⚠️ Attention: If the engine suddenly stalls while driving and won't start again, don't rush to blame the battery or fuel pump. There is an 80% chance that the problem is in the DPKV - this is the only sensor without which Nissan Wingroad won't start.
📊 How often do you check engine sensors?
  • Only when errors occur
  • Once a year
  • Before long trips
  • Never

What errors does a faulty DPKV produce?

When scanning Nissan Wingroad using a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327) a faulty crankshaft sensor is manifested by the following codes:

Error code Description Probable Cause
P0335 Crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction Wire break, contact oxidation or sensor failure
P0336 Crankshaft Sensor Range/Performance Out of Standard Mechanical damage to the sensor or metal shavings
P0320 Incorrect crankshaft sensor signal Problems with flywheel ring gear or sensor misalignment
P0340 Phase sensor malfunction (may be false if there are problems with DPKV) The ECU confuses sensor signals due to an unstable crankshaft signal

On Wingroad with engine MR20DE error P0335 often accompanied lack of communication with the ECU via the diagnostic connector. This is due to the fact that the control unit goes into “emergency mode” and disables some functions.

If the scanner shows several errors at the same time (for example, P0335 + P0300 — multiple misfires), start diagnostics with the DPKV.

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Wingroad?

The location of the DPKV depends on the generation and engine of the car:

  • 🔧 On models 1996–2005 (engines GA16DE, QG18DE) sensor installed on the gearbox next to the flywheel. Access to it is blocked by the starter, so to replace it you will have to remove it.
  • 🔧 On Wingroad 2005–2012 (engine MR20DE) DPKV moved to cylinder block from the oil filter side. Here replacement is simpler, but requires removing the engine protection.

Externally, the sensor is a cylinder ~5 cm long with a connector on two contacts. It is secured with one turnkey bolt. 10 mm. The main difficulty is gap between sensor and ring gear (should be 0.5–1.5 mm). If this gap is violated during installation, the ECU will receive an incorrect signal.

How to check the gap without a feeler gauge?

If you don’t have a probe at hand, use a strip from a cigarette package (thickness ~0.1 mm) or a sheet of A4 paper folded in half (thickness ~0.2 mm). Pass them between the sensor and the ring - if they pass with light force, the gap is normal.

How to check the crankshaft sensor for Nissan Wingroad?

Before replacing the sensor, make sure that this is the problem. Here are step-by-step verification instructions:

  1. Visual inspection:
    • 🔍 Check the integrity of the wiring and connector. Often, oxidation of contacts or frayed wires cause false alarms.
    • 🧲 Make sure that there are no metal shavings on the sensor body (attracted by a magnet). Its presence indicates wear of the flywheel crown.
  • Resistance test:

    Disconnect the sensor connector and measure the resistance between the contacts with a multimeter. Norm for Nissan Wingroad: 550–750 Ohm. If the readings are outside this range, the sensor is faulty.

  • Inductance test:

    For this you need a megohmmeter or an oscilloscope. The device should show inductance within 200–400 mH. Deviations indicate internal winding breaks.

    • ☑️ What is needed to check the DPKV

    Done: 0 / 4

    If the sensor is apparently intact, but the engine does not start, try move the connector with the ignition on. Sometimes contact is restored and the car starts - this is a sure sign of oxidation or wire breakage.

    ⚠️ Attention: On Wingroad with MR20DE When checking the sensor resistance, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery! The ECU of this engine is sensitive to voltage surges, and incorrect connection of the multimeter can damage it.

    Step-by-step replacement of the crankshaft sensor with Nissan Wingroad

    Tools you will need:

    • 🔧 Key on 10 mm (for mounting bolt)
    • 🔧 Head on 14 mm (to remove the starter on older models)
    • 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for connector)
    • 🔧 Feeler gauge for adjusting the gap

    Instructions for models 1996–2005. (GA16DE/QG18DE):

    1. Remove starter (unscrew 2 bolts on 14 mm and disconnect the terminals).
    2. Disconnect the sensor connector by pressing the latch.
    3. Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt with a wrench 10 mm.
    4. Carefully remove the sensor without damaging the O-ring.
    5. Install the new sensor, maintaining the gap 0.5–1.5 mm (use a feeler gauge).
    6. Tighten the bolt to torque 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).
    7. Reconnect the connector and install the starter back.

    Instructions for models 2005–2012. (MR20DE):

    1. Remove engine protection (4 bolts per 10 mm).
    2. Locate the sensor next to the oil filter (it is bolted to the cylinder block).
    3. Disconnect the connector and unscrew the bolt.
    4. Install the new sensor, checking the gap with a feeler gauge.
    5. Connect the connector and install the protection in place.
    💡

    Before installing a new sensor, clean the seat from dirt and apply a little lubricant to the O-ring - this will prevent moisture from entering and extend service life.

    How much does the crankshaft sensor and its replacement cost?

    Prices for DPKV for Nissan Wingroad vary by manufacturer and region:

    Manufacturer Article Price, rub. Notes
    Nissan (original) 23731-4M200 (GA16DE/QG18DE) 2 500–3 800 Best quality but high price
    Hitachi CPS003 1 800–2 300 Good analogue, suitable for all engines
    Blue Print ADG02303 1 500–2 000 Budget option, possible resource problems
    Febi 23731 1 200–1 600 Poor quality o-ring

    Service replacement cost:

    • 💰 1,500–2,500 rub. - if the sensor is accessible without removing the starter (MR20DE).
    • 💰 3,000–4,500 rub. - if it is necessary to dismantle the starter (GA16DE/QG18DE).

    You can save money by purchasing the sensor yourself and replacing it in the garage. The main thing is not to forget reset errors after replacement (use command Erase DTC in the diagnostic scanner).

    💡

    Even the original sensor Nissan may fail after 3–5 years due to exposure to vibrations and temperature changes. Check its condition regularly during scheduled maintenance.

    Common mistakes when replacing DPKV and how to avoid them

    Inexperienced car owners often make mistakes that lead to repeated malfunctions:

    • 🔧 Incorrect clearance — if the sensor is installed too close or far from the crown, the signal will be unstable. Always use a dipstick!
    • 🔧 Connector damage — when disconnecting, do not pull the wires, but press the latch. Broken contacts will lead to a short circuit.
    • 🔧 Ignoring errors after replacement - if Check Engine stays on, the problem may be in the wiring or the ECU.
    • 🔧 Using sealant — never apply sealant to the sensor seat. It can get on the work surface and distort the signal.

    On Wingroad with MR20DE after replacing DPKV it is sometimes required throttle adaptation. To do this:

    1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
    2. Wait 10 seconds.
    3. Turn off the ignition.
    4. Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes.
    ⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the sensor the engine starts but is unstable, check flywheel ring gear condition. On vehicles with more than 200,000 km, the teeth may be worn or chipped, resulting in false signals.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor Nissan Wingroad

    Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

    No. The crankshaft sensor is a critical element of the engine management system. Without its signal, the ECU blocks fuel injection and ignition, so the car won't start or stalls a few seconds after starting.

    How to distinguish a malfunction of the DPKV from problems with the camshaft sensor?

    In case of malfunction camshaft sensor (P0340) the engine usually starts, but runs unstable, and the error appears only at high speeds. DPKV leads to complete engine stop or inability to start.

    What happens if you do not maintain the gap when installing the sensor?

    Too large a gap (>1.5 mm) will lead to weak signal, causing the ECU to erroneously determine the crankshaft position. Too small a gap (<0.5 mm) may cause mechanical damage vibration sensor.

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

    If the problem is oxidation of contacts or contamination of the working surface, the sensor can be cleaned with alcohol or a special contact cleaner. However, in case of internal faults (winding breakage, cracks), cleaning will not help - replacement is required.

    Will a sensor from another Nissan fit on Wingroad?

    Sensors from Nissan Almera N16 (QG18DE) and Nissan Primera P12 (QR20DE) are interchangeable with Wingroad provided that the connector and body length match. However, it is better to use the original article or a proven analogue (Hitachi, Denso).