The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the key elements of the engine management system Nissan Almera G15. Its malfunction leads to malfunctions of the engine: from unstable idling to complete failure to start. Unlike many sensors, DPKV rarely fails suddenly - usually the problem grows gradually, but it cannot be ignored.

Owners Almera G15 (2013-2022 model years) often have difficulty finding this sensor. The fact is that its location depends on the type of engine: HR16DE (1.6 l) or H4M (1.5 L in some markets). In this article you will find exact diagrams, photos indicating the location, as well as practical tips for diagnosis and replacement.

Where exactly is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera G15

On Almera G15 with engine HR16DE crankshaft sensor installed on on the right side of the cylinder block (in the direction of travel of the vehicle), next to the flywheel. Specifically, on the oil pump cover, just below the thermostat. It is easily identified by two key features:

  • 🔧 Black body with a 3-pin connector (white or gray).
  • 📍 1 bolt mounting (10 mm wrench head).
  • 🔗 Wire harness passes, going to the ECU (electronic control unit).

The photo below shows the exact location (the sensor is circled in red, the mounting bolt is circled in yellow):

Note: On H4M engines (1.5 l), the sensor is located similarly, but can be shifted 2–3 cm closer to the gearbox.

To get to the sensor you will need:

  1. Remove plastic engine cover (4 latches).
  2. Disconnect power connector from the sensor (press the latch and pull up).
  3. Unscrew fastening bolt (10 mm wrench).
💡

Before removing the sensor, clear the area around it of dirt and oil - this will prevent debris from entering the hole in the cylinder block.

What a crankshaft sensor looks like: photos and articles

Crankshaft position sensor on Almera G15 - this is induction sensor with magnetic core. Externally, it is a cylinder ~5 cm long with a plastic connector. Below are the original articles and analogues:

Type Article Manufacturer Note
Original 23731-4M000 Nissan For HR16DE/H4M engines
Analogue SS20103 Sensata High-quality replacement, fits without modifications
Analogue 55565941 Bosch Universal, may require connector soldering
Analogue 23731-4M010 Denso Optimal price/quality ratio

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing an analogue, pay attention to core length - it should match the original (about 45 mm). Sensors with a short core may give incorrect readings at high speeds.

The photo below shows a comparison of the original sensor (left) and a low-quality analogue (right). Please note the difference in connector plastic and markings:

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor

DPKV on Almera G15 rarely fails completely - more often it begins to “glitch” periodically. Main symptoms:

  • ⚡ Engine stalls at idle or works unevenly.
  • 🔥 Check Engine light comes on with errors P0335 or P0336.
  • 🚗 Misfires during acceleration (especially at speeds of 2000–3000 rpm).
  • 🔄 The engine does not start the first time, several attempts are required.
  • 📉 Power reduction and “dips” when pressing the gas.

🔧 Important: The same symptoms can cause malfunctions camshaft sensor, ignition coils or postings. Before replacing the DPKV, be sure to carry out diagnostics!

📊 Which of these symptoms have you encountered?
  • Engine stalls at idle
  • Check Engine light came on
  • Misfires during acceleration
  • The engine doesn't start well
  • Other symptom

How to check the crankshaft sensor for Almera G15 without scanner

There are three reliable ways to check DPKV in garage conditions. You will need: multimeter, screwdriver And metal object (for example, a wrench).

Method 1: Checking winding resistance

  1. Remove the connector from the sensor.
  2. Set the multimeter to mode resistance measurements (200 Ohm).
  3. Connect the probes to the terminals 1 and 2 (connector contacts).
  4. Normal resistance: 550–750 Ohm.

Method 2: Inductance Test

For this test you need a multimeter with an inductance measurement function (or a separate LC meter):

  1. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals.
  2. Measure inductance - normal: 200–400 mH.
  3. If the value is lower 150 mH, the sensor is faulty.

Method 3: Checking the signal (dynamic test)

The most accurate method, but requires an assistant:

  1. Connect the multimeter to mode AC voltage measurements (200 mV).
  2. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals.
  3. Ask an assistant to crank the engine with the starter (without starting!).
  4. On a working sensor, the voltage should be pulsate in the range of 0.3–1 V.

☑️ Preparation for checking the DPKV

Done: 0 / 4

⚠️ Attention: If, when checking resistance, the multimeter shows break (OL) or short circuit (0 ohm), the sensor must be replaced. Also inspect the connector for oxidation - this is a common cause of false alarms.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

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

  • 🔧 10 mm wrench (head or open-end).
  • 🧴 Rags and cleaner (for example, WD-40).
  • 🔌 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for the connector lock).

Step 1: Preparation

Disable negative battery terminal (this will reset errors in the ECU). Remove the plastic engine cover if it interferes with access.

Step 2: Removing the Old Sensor

  1. Press the connector latch and disconnect it from the sensor.
  2. Unscrew the fastening bolt (10 mm wrench).
  3. Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side (do not force it!).

Step 3: Installing a New Sensor

  1. Clean the seat from oil and dirt.
  2. Insert the new sensor all the way (it should “sit” with a slight click).
  3. Tighten the fastening bolt (tightening torque - 8–10 Nm).
  4. Connect the connector.

Step 4: Check

Connect the battery and start the engine. If the error P0335 disappeared, and the engine runs smoothly - the replacement was successful.

💡

After replacing the sensor, be sure to reset the errors in the ECU using a scanner or by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes. Otherwise, the Check Engine light may come on even with a working sensor.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

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

  • 🛠️ Using a non-original sensor with a different resistance. This leads to unstable engine operation at high speeds.
  • 🔩 Fastening bolt tightening. It can damage the threads in the cylinder block (repairs will cost 5–10 thousand rubles).
  • 🧲 Entry of metal shavings into the mounting hole. Always clean the installation area with a magnet!
  • 🔌 Connector damage when disconnected. If the latch is broken, replace the entire connector.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the sensor the engine won't start at all, check:

  1. Connector polarity (reversed contacts can damage the ECU!).
  2. Integrity of the wiring from the sensor to the ECU (often frays near the exhaust manifold).

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

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

Technically possible, but highly undesirable. The sensor affects ignition timing And fuel injection. If it malfunctions, the engine operates in emergency mode, which leads to:

  • Increased fuel consumption (up to +20%).
  • Engine overheating due to incorrect mixture.
  • Risk of damage to the catalyst.

🔧 Recommendation: If the sensor malfunctions, replace it within 1-2 weeks.

What is the difference between the sensors for HR16DE and H4M?

On Almera G15 with engines HR16DE And H4M sensors with the same article number are installed (23731-4M000), but there are nuances:

  • On H4M the sensor may have a slightly different connector angle (10–15 degrees).
  • The core length is the same, but the magnetic field of the coil may differ.

💡 Advice: When purchasing, check with the seller for compatibility with your engine type.

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

Cleaning is possible, but not always effective. If the problem is winding break or core demagnetization, cleaning won't help. However, it's worth a try if:

  • The sensor is covered with oil or dirt.
  • The connector contacts are oxidized.

🧹 How to clean: Use alcohol or contact cleaner (not WD-40!). Wipe the core and connector with a soft brush.

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

The cost of working in a car service depends on the region:

Region Cost of work (rub.) Sensor cost (RUB)
Moscow/St. Petersburg 800–1500 1200–2500 (original)
Regions 500–1000 800–1800 (analog)

💰 Total: Replacement with the original sensor will cost 2000–4000 rub., with analogue - 1300–2500 rub.

What errors does a faulty DPKV produce?

On Almera G15 The following codes appear most often:

  • P0335 — Crankshaft sensor circuit malfunction.
  • P0336 — Sensor range/performance exceeds limits.
  • P0327 — Low signal level of DPKV.

🔧 Important: These errors can also occur if there are problems with wiring or flywheel ring gear.