Camshaft sensor on Nissan Almera Classic: where is it located, how to remove and check

Introduction: why do you need a camshaft sensor and why are you looking for it?

Camshaft position sensor (DPRV, aka phase sensor) is a critical element of the engine management system Nissan Almera Classic (body N16). It is responsible for synchronizing the operation of fuel injectors and the ignition system with valve timing. When this sensor fails, the ECU goes into emergency mode, which manifests itself error code P0340, floating speed, difficult starting or increased fuel consumption.

Owners Almera Classic with motors QG15DE (1.5 l) and QG18DE (1.8 l) are often faced with the need to find this sensor for replacement or diagnostics. But its location is not always obvious: unlike the crankshaft sensor, the DPRV is hidden under plastic casings and pipes. In this article - exact coordinates of the sensor with photos, step-by-step instructions for dismantling and tips for checking with a multimeter.

Where exactly is the camshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera Classic?

On Nissan Almera Classic (2006–2012) camshaft sensor installed on cylinder head (cylinder head) from the outside intake camshaft. Specific location:

• 🔧 To the right of the engine (if you look in the direction of travel), next to the valve cover.
• 📍 Under a plastic casing ignition coils (on engines QG15DE/QG18DE).
• 🔌 Near the wiring harness connector, going to the injectors.

Visually, the sensor is a small cylindrical box (size ~5x3 cm) with a 3-pin connector. It is secured with one bolt by 10. To see it, you will have to remove the decorative plastic engine cover and move the crankcase ventilation pipes to the side.

Important! On Almera Classic with motor QG18DE (1.8 L) sensor may be slightly moved closer to the oil dipstick compared to the 1.5 L version. Also, on some modifications (for example, for Asian markets), the sensor connector may be black, and not gray, as on European versions.

Photo and sensor location diagram

Below is a diagram and real photos of the location of the DPRV on Nissan Almera Classic N16:

View	Description
📷 Top view (without cover)	The sensor is located to the right of the valve covers, next to the ignition coils. A gray connector with 3 wires is visible.
🔍 Side view (battery side)	Partially closed by a ventilation pipe. The mounting bolt is visible when the cover is removed.
🔧 Fastening	One key bolt by 10, the connector is secured with a plastic latch.

How to distinguish a camshaft sensor from a crankshaft sensor?

crankshaft sensor Almera Classic is on cylinder block (bottom, gearbox side) and has a 2-pin connector. DPRV - on the cylinder head, with a 3-pin connector.

If you are not sure that you have found the right sensor, pay attention to the markings. Original DPRV for Almera Classic has a number 23731-4M500 or 23731-4M505 (depending on the year of manufacture). There may also be an inscription on the body "CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR".

How to remove the camshaft sensor: step-by-step instructions

To dismantle the DPRV on Nissan Almera Classic you will need:

• 🔧 Key or head by 10.
• 🔌 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for prying off the connector).
• 🧤 Gloves (so as not to contaminate the contacts).

Sequence of actions:

Disconnect the negative battery terminal

Remove the decorative engine cover

Move the crankcase ventilation pipes to the side

Clean the area around the sensor from dirt (compressed air or a brush) -->

1. Disconnect the sensor connector by pressing the plastic latch from the side (do not pull the wires!).

2. Key by 10 Unscrew the fastening bolt. Be careful - it may get stuck.

3. Carefully remove the sensor from its seat. If he doesn't walk, rock him slightly from side to side.

⚠️ Attention! When removing the sensor, check the condition of the O-ring. If it is torn or has lost elasticity, replace it (part no. 13534-4M500). Without a seal, oil will enter the seat, which will lead to rapid failure of the new sensor.

How to check the camshaft sensor with a multimeter

Before replacing the DPRV with Almera Classic It is recommended to check its functionality. To do this, you will need a multimeter with resistance and voltage measurement mode.

Check procedure:

1. Set the multimeter to ohmmeter mode (200–2000 Ohm).

2. Connect the probes to the contacts 1 and 2 sensor connector (see diagram below). The resistance of a working DPRV should be within the limits 550–750 Ohm.

3. Check resistance between contacts 1 and 3, and also 2 and 3 - it should tend to infinity (break).

If the resistance is not normal, the sensor is faulty. You can also check for power availability:

• 🔋 Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
• 📊 Measure the voltage between the contact 3 (mass) and 1 (food). Must be 12 V.

⚠️ Attention! On some versions Almera Classic (for example, for the Japanese market) the pinout of the connector may differ. Before checking, check the diagram for your modification using the VIN code.

Signs of a malfunctioning camshaft sensor on Almera Classic

Faulty DPRV on Nissan Almera Classic manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• ⚠️ Check Engine light on with errors P0340, P0341 or P0344.
• 🚗 The engine starts within 3–5 attempts or stalls immediately after starting.
• ⛽ Increased fuel consumption (1-2 liters more than usual).
• 🔄 Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm).
• 💨 Power Loss during acceleration (especially noticeable at rpm above 3000).

It is important to distinguish the symptoms of a faulty DPRV from problems with crankshaft sensor or timing belt. For example, if the engine does not start at all (it doesn’t even “start”), most likely the problem is the crankshaft sensor or a broken belt.

Which camshaft sensor to choose for replacement

For Nissan Almera Classic The following DPRV options are suitable:

Type	Article	Manufacturer	Note
Original	23731-4M500	Nissan	Best quality, but high price (~3500–4500 rubles).
Analogue	SS20103	Starline	Good price/quality ratio (~1200 rubles).
Analogue	555SS20103	Sasic	Budget option (~800 rubles), but more often counterfeited.
Analogue	237314M505	Blue Print	Suitable for versions from 2010 (~1500 RUR).

When purchasing, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Wire length - on fakes it may be shorter than the original.
• 🧲 Magnetic core - must attract metal objects.
• 📦 Packaging — the original Nissan comes in a branded box with a hologram.

If you buy a used sensor, be sure to test it with a multimeter before installation. Even an externally serviceable sensor may have internal breaks.

Common mistakes when replacing the camshaft sensor

When independently replacing the DPRV with Almera Classic Owners often make the following mistakes:

• 🛑 Doesn't disconnect the battery before operation, which leads to a short circuit when the connector is disconnected.
• 🔧 They are using the wrong size key (For example, at 12 instead of by 10), tearing off the edges of the bolt.
• 🧹 Not cleaning the seat from oil and dirt, which is why the new sensor quickly fails.
• 🔌 Contacts are confused when connecting the connector (especially on non-original sensors with a different pinout).
• 🚫 ECU errors do not reset after replacement, which is why Check Engine continues to burn.

To avoid problems, follow a simple rule: take photographs of each stage of disassembly. This will help you connect the connector correctly and not forget where the pipes were located.

⚠️ Attention! After replacing the sensor, be sure to reset the ECU adaptations. To do this:

1. Remove the battery terminal for 10-15 minutes.
2. Plug it back in and start the engine.
3. Let it idle for 5–7 minutes (the ECU will “learn” new parameters).

If the error P0340 remains, check the sensor's power supply circuit or contact a diagnostician.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the camshaft sensor on Almera Classic

Is it possible to drive with a faulty camshaft sensor?

Technically possible, but not recommended. The ECU will go into emergency mode, which will lead to:

• Increased fuel consumption (up to +20%).
• Unstable engine operation (jerks, dips).
• Risk of catalyst damage due to incorrect fuel mixture.

On Almera Classic With an automatic transmission, driving for a long time with a faulty air flow control valve can also damage the gearbox.

How to distinguish an original sensor from a fake?

Original sensor 23731-4M500 has:

• Clear markings on the body (no typos).
• Gray plastic connector with proprietary latch.
• A metal core that attracts a magnet.
• Hologram on the package (if you buy new).

Counterfeits are often lighter in weight and have blurry engravings.

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

The cost of work to replace the DPRV with Nissan Almera Classic in 2026:

• On your own: ~0 rub. (only key required by 10).
• In service: 800–1500 rub. (depending on the region).
• With diagnostics: 1500–2500 rub. (includes error reading and circuit check).

If you change the sensor yourself, we recommend spending money on diagnostics (~500 rub.) before and after replacement to ensure proper operation.

Can the camshaft sensor fail due to oil?

Yes. On Almera Classic The sensor is installed next to the camshaft, and when the oil seals or oil seals wear out, oil enters its connector. This leads to:

• Short circuit inside the sensor.
• Oxidation of contacts.
• False signals to the ECU.

If, when removing the sensor, you find oil in the connector, be sure to check the condition of the camshaft seals and the sensor O-ring.

What other sensors can give the P0340 error?

Error P0340 ("Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction") on Almera Classic may appear not only due to the DPRV itself, but also due to:

• Open circuit or short circuit in wiring (check the circuit from the sensor to the ECU).
• Oxidation of contacts in ECU connector (the unit is located under the glove compartment).
• Malfunctions ECU (rarely, but happens during power surges).
• Offsets timing belt by 1–2 teeth (check the marks).

If replacing the sensor does not help, diagnose the circuit with a multimeter or oscilloscope.