Crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera G15: where is it located, how to check and replace

Introduction: Why is the crankshaft sensor so important for Almera G15

The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of those small but critical components on which the stable operation of the engine depends. Nissan Almera G15. Without it, the electronic control unit (ECU) simply will not be able to determine the moment of fuel and spark supply, which will lead to a complete stop of the engine. Owners Almera with engines HR15DE And HR16DE often encounter problems with this sensor after 80-100 thousand kilometers, when symptoms such as floating speed or difficult starting begin to appear.

Unlike many other sensors, DPKV does not have redundant systems - its failure means an instant loss of communication between the ECU and the crankshaft. Therefore, knowing the exact location of this element, the ability to diagnose and replace it can save time and money, especially if you are planning a DIY repair. In this article we will look not only where exactly is the crankshaft sensor located? Nissan Almera G15, but also how to check it with a multimeter, what errors it gives, and what nuances should be taken into account when replacing it.

The exact location of the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera G15 (2013-2022)

On Almera G15 The crankshaft sensor is located at the bottom of the engine, near the flywheel. More specifically, it is located on gearbox housing, closer to the rear of the engine (interior side). To see it you will need to remove it plastic boot engine compartment and possibly disconnect the air duct.

Externally, the sensor is a small cylindrical body with a connector and one mounting bolt. On Almera G15 used induction sensor (not based on the Hall effect), which reads the signal from the flywheel ring gear. The distance between the sensor and the crown is critical - it should be 0.5–1.5 mm (the gap is adjusted automatically during installation).

• 📍 Location: on the gearbox housing, under the thermostat, next to the flywheel.
• 🔧 Mount: one 10 mm bolt + connector lock.
• 🔌 Connector: two-pin, black or gray.
• 🔍 Marking: original number - 23731-4M500 or 23731-4M505.

If you are looking at the engine from the radiator side, the sensor will be located bottom right, just above the pallet. For ease of access, it is recommended to use mirror with telescopic handle or remove the right front wheel (on some modifications).

What does the crankshaft sensor look like? Almera G15: photo and diagram

Visually, the crankshaft position sensor is on Nissan Almera G15 is a compact device about 5–6 cm long with a metal core and a plastic body. At the end there is a connector with two contacts (signal and ground). Original sensors are painted black, while analog ones may have a gray or brown tint.

Below is a layout diagram showing key landmarks:

element	Description	Photo/landmark
Crankshaft sensor	Cylindrical housing with connector, secured with a 10 mm bolt	Black plastic, next to the flywheel
Ring gear	Metal ring on flywheel with 58 teeth (2 missing for synchronization)	Visible when the gearbox boot is removed
Sensor connector	Two-pin plug, secured with a plastic latch	Gray or black, goes in a harness to the ECU
Mounting bolt	One bolt with a 10 mm head, sometimes sticks	Next to the sensor, under the boot

In practice, many people confuse DPKV with camshaft sensor, which is located higher on the cylinder head. To avoid mistakes, focus on long wire crankshaft sensor - it goes directly to the ECU, while the camshaft sensor has a shorter harness.

How to distinguish a crankshaft sensor from a camshaft sensor?

The crankshaft sensor on the Almera G15 has two contacts in a connector and is located on the gearbox housing. The camshaft sensor has three contacts and is located on the cylinder head (closer to the valve cover). Also, the DPKV always has a metal core, and the camshaft sensor has a completely plastic housing.

Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Almera G15

Failure or incorrect operation of the DPKV is manifested by several symptoms at once, which are difficult to confuse with other malfunctions. The main sign is engine stalls and won't start, but there are also “softer” signals:

• ⚠️ Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm).
• ⚡ Misfires in all cylinders (error P0300).
• 🔥 Difficult start “hot” or “cold” (the starter turns, but the engine does not catch).
• 🚗 Jerks during acceleration, especially at speeds of 60–90 km/h.
• 💡 Check Engine with errors P0335 (DCCV circuit malfunction) or P0336 (signal outside the permissible range).

Feature Almera G15 is that if the DPKV malfunctions, an error may appear not right away. For example, the engine will start after 3-5 attempts and then run stably. This is due to the fact that the ECU uses backup timing algorithms, but they are short-lived.

⚠️ Attention: If the dashboard lights up Check Engine and the engine stalls, do not try to turn the starter repeatedly. This can lead to overheating of the ignition coils or flooding of spark plugs. Almera G15 with direct injection.

How to check the crankshaft sensor for Nissan Almera G15 multimeter

Diagnostics of DPKV does not require complex equipment - a digital multimeter with the function of measuring resistance and voltage is sufficient. Before checking it is necessary disconnect the sensor connector and clean the contacts from oxidation (use WD-40 or alcohol).

Step by step instructions:

1. Resistance test:
   • Set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 ohms).
   • Connect the probes to the sensor contacts (polarity is not important).
   • Normal value for Almera G15: 550–750 Ohm.
2. Inductance test (optional):
   • For this you need a megohmmeter or an oscilloscope.
   • The inductance must be within 200–400 mH.
3. Signal check:
   • Connect the multimeter to AC voltage measurement mode (200 mV).
   • Crank the crankshaft with the starter (an assistant is needed).
   • On a working sensor, the voltage should fluctuate in the range 0.1–0.5 V.

If the resistance is below 500 ohms or above 900 ohms, the sensor is faulty. Also a sign of failure is no voltage changes when cranking the crankshaft.

Clean the connector contacts from oxidation | Check the circuit for open circuit (ring the wires to the ECU) | Make sure that the new sensor has the same markings | Prepare a 10 mm wrench and a flat-head screwdriver-->

Step-by-step replacement of the crankshaft sensor with Nissan Almera G15

Replacing DPKV with Almera G15 takes no more than 30 minutes, but requires care. The main thing is not to damage the flywheel ring gear and not to confuse the position of the sensor during installation.

Required tools:

• 🔧 Key or head on 10 mm.
• 🔨 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the connector lock).
• 🧴 WD-40 or rust remover.
• 🧤 Gloves (protection from dirt and oil).

Algorithm of actions:

1. Removing protection:
   • Unscrew the bolts securing the plastic boot under the engine (4 bolts of 10 mm).
   • Disconnect the air duct from the air filter housing for easy access.
2. Removing the sensor:
   • Press the plastic latch of the connector and disconnect it.
   • Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt (force may be required if the thread is stuck).
   • Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side.
3. Installing a new sensor:
   • Clean the seat from dirt and oil.
   • Insert the new sensor until it stops (it should “sit” on the thrust ring).
   • Tighten the fastening bolt to a torque 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).
   • Connect the connector until the latch clicks.
4. Check:
   • Make sure there are no foreign objects between the sensor and the flywheel ring.
   • Start the engine and check for errors using OBD-II scanner.

⚠️ Attention: On some Almera G15 after 2018, the sensor can be fixed not with a bolt, but with a plastic clip. In this case, for removal you will need a screwdriver with a thin blade to carefully pry the latch.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when working with DPKV on Almera G15. Here are the most common ones:

• 🔧 Tightening the fastening bolt: this may deform the sensor housing or compromise the clearance to the flywheel crown. Use a torque wrench or lightly tighten the bolt by hand.
• 🔌 Incomplete connector connection: if the latch is not latched, the contact will be intermittent, which will lead to an error P0335. Always check the connection is secure.
• 🧲 Ingress of metal shavings: When cleaning the seat, do not use metal brushes - chips may stick to the sensor and distort the signal.
• 🔄 Installing a non-original sensor: cheap analogues (for example, from NoName-manufacturers) often have incorrect resistance, which leads to false alarms. Recommended brands: Hitachi, Denso, Bosch.

Another typical problem is wiring harness damage during dismantling. On Almera G15 The sensor wires are in a common harness with the speed sensor, so when removing the connector, do not pull the wires, but press the latch.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera G15

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. The crankshaft sensor is a critical element of the engine management system. If it fails completely, the engine Almera G15 Either it won’t start, or it will run intermittently and stall. In rare cases, the ECU can use backup algorithms, but this is a temporary solution that leads to increased fuel consumption and the risk of damage to the catalyst.

Which crankshaft sensor is suitable for Almera G15 with HR16DE engine?

For engines HR15DE And HR16DE original sensors with numbers are suitable:

• 23731-4M500 (until 2017),
• 23731-4M505 (after 2017).

Analogues: Hitachi DK10A, Denso 550-0103, Bosch 0 261 210 115. Before purchasing, check the resistance (should be 550-750 ohms).

Why is there an error after replacing the sensor? P0335 doesn't disappear?

There are several reasons:

1. Malfunction in the circuit (break or short circuit in the wire from the sensor to the computer).
2. Poor contact in the connector (oxidation or incomplete latching).
3. Damage to the flywheel ring gear (for example, chipped or corroded teeth).
4. Non-original sensor with incorrect parameters.

Check the chain with a multimeter and inspect the ring through the inspection window in the gearbox housing (you will need to remove the starter).

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

Cleaning is possible, but only effective if dirty contacts or oil deposits on the body. Use isopropyl alcohol or contact cleaner (For example, CRC Contact Cleaner). If the problem is an internal fault (winding break, crack in the housing), cleaning will not help - replacement is required.

How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft sensor at a service center?

The cost of service work depends on the region, but on average:

• Diagnostics (reading errors) - 500–1000 rubles.
• Replacement of the sensor - 1500–2500 rubles.
• The price of the original sensor is 2000–3500 rubles.

Total: 4000–6000 rub. including spare parts. When you replace it yourself, you save on work, but you risk damaging the connector or wiring harness.