Nissan Almera N16 is one of the most popular foreign cars on the Russian market, known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. However, even such time-tested cars have weaknesses. One of them is Crankshaft position sensor (CPS), the failure of which can immobilize the car at the most inopportune moment. This small but critical element is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the ignition and fuel injection systems. If it fails, the engine Almera N16 either refuses to start or works intermittently.
In this article we will figure out how recognize a faulty crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera N16 (including models with engines QG15DE And QG18DE), which error codes signal about its breakdown, and how to make check and replacement with your own hands. You will also find out what analogues of the original sensor can be used to save money without losing quality, and why sometimes the problem lies not in the sensor itself, but in the wiring or connector.
Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Almera N16
Crankshaft position sensor (DPKV) is the only sensor in the engine management system that, if it fails, will damage the vehicle guaranteed not to start. However, before complete failure, it often signals a malfunction. Here are the most common symptoms on Almera N16:
- 🔴 Engine won't start (the starter turns, but there is no flash in the cylinders).
- ⚡ "Check Engine" lights up on the dashboard (sometimes flashes when trying to start).
- 🚗 Engine stalls while driving and will not start again until the errors are reset.
- 🔄 Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm).
- 💨 Power Loss and “failures” during acceleration (especially noticeable on the engine
QG18DE). - 🔧 Bugs
P0335,P0336orP0320when diagnosing with a scanner.
It is important to note that other malfunctions can cause similar symptoms: problems with ignition coils, fuel pump or ECU. However, if the dashboard lights up Check Engine, and the scanner shows errors related to crankshaft sensor circuit (P0335 - “Malfunction of the DPKV circuit”), then with a 90% probability the problem is in it.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Almera N16 with engineQG15DEThe crankshaft sensor is located in a less accessible location than onQG18DE. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the diagnosis to professionals - improper handling of the sensor can damage its magnetic part.
- QG15DE (1.5 l)
- QG18DE (1.8 l)
- Other
- I don't know
Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera N16?
Depending on the engine modification, the location of the sensor may differ slightly. On most Almera N16 (2000–2006) it is installed in the following locations:
- 🔧 On the engine
QG15DE(1.5 l) — to the right of the oil filter,近い cylinder block, next to the crankshaft pulley. To get to it, you will have to remove the engine protection and possibly the wheel. - 🔧 On the engine
QG18DE(1.8 l) — to the left of the cylinder block (in the direction of travel), closer to the gearbox. Access here is easier, but the air duct pipe may interfere.
Visually, the sensor is a small cylinder with a plastic connector and a long mounting bolt. At its end there is magnetic core, which reads the signal from ring gear on the crankshaft. The distance between the sensor and the crown should be 0.5–1.5 mm - if it is broken (for example, due to dirt or mechanical displacement), the signal will be incorrect.
| Engine model | Sensor location | Difficulty of access | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
QG15DE (1.5 l) |
To the right of the oil filter | Medium (requires unprotection) | Often contaminated with oil deposits |
QG18DE (1.8 l) |
To the left of the cylinder block | Easy (access without removing elements) | The air duct pipe may be in the way |
QR20DE (2.0 l, rare) |
Under the thermostat | Complex (requires removal of thermostat) | Found on restyled versions |
Before proceeding with replacement, make sure that the problem is with the sensor. For this it is needed check — we’ll talk about this in the next section.
How to check the crankshaft sensor for Nissan Almera N16?
There are three main ways to diagnose DPCV: visual inspection, checking with a multimeter And diagnostics with an oscilloscope. The last two methods require special tools, but the first can be performed by any car owner.
1. Visual inspection
Remove the sensor (unscrew the mounting bolt and disconnect the connector) and inspect it for:
- 🧲 Damage to the magnetic core (cracks, chips).
- 🩹 Corrosion or oxidation on the connector contacts.
- 🛢️ Oil or mud deposits at the end (may distort the signal).
- 🔧 Hull deformation (for example, from impact during repairs).
2. Check with a multimeter
To do this you will need a tester in ohmmeter mode. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals (polarity is not important) and measure the resistance:
- ✅ Normal resistance for Almera N16:
550–750 Ohm. - ❌ If resistance
0 ohm(short circuit) or∞(break), the sensor is faulty.
10mm wrench for removing sensor|Multimeter (ohmmeter mode)|Screwdriver for disconnecting connector|Contact cleaner (WD-40 or equivalent)|Inspection flashlight-->
3. Checking with an oscilloscope (for advanced)
This is the most accurate method, but it requires special equipment. The oscilloscope is connected to the signal wire of the sensor, after which you need to crank the engine with the starter. The screen should display stable sine wave with an amplitude of at least 0.5 V. If the signal is intermittent or absent, the sensor is faulty.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Almera N16 with an automatic transmission, when checking with an oscilloscope, be sure to move the selector to the position P (Parking). Otherwise, the starter will not crank the crankshaft at the required speed, and the signal will be distorted.
If the sensor passes all tests, but the error P0335 remains, the problem may lie in wiring or connector. Check the circuit from the sensor to the ECU for an open or short circuit.
Which crankshaft sensors are suitable for Nissan Almera N16?
Original sensor from Nissan has an article number 23731-4M000 or 23731-4M005 (depending on the year of manufacture). Its average price is 2500–4000 rubles. However, there are cheaper analogues that are in no way inferior in quality:
| Manufacturer | Article | Price (RUB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan (original) | 23731-4M000 |
3000–4000 | Guaranteed Compatibility |
| Bosch | 0 261 210 115 |
1800–2200 | High quality, often installed on assembly line |
| ERA | 550433 |
1200–1500 | Budget option, time-tested |
| Febi | 23731 |
1600–1900 | Good price/quality ratio |
| Blue Print | ADT33701 |
1400–1700 | Suitable for most engines Nissan |
When choosing an analogue, pay attention to compatible with your engine. For example, a sensor for QG15DE may not be suitable for QG18DE due to differences in housing length or connector. Also avoid cheap no-name options - they often fail after 10–20 thousand km.
Before purchasing a new sensor, take a photo of the old one on both sides (especially the connector and markings). This will help to avoid mistakes when selecting an analogue.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor with Nissan Almera N16
Replacing the DPKV is one of the simplest procedures that even a beginner can handle. The main thing is to be careful and not damage the magnetic core. Here are the detailed instructions:
Required tools:
- 🔧 Key on
10 mm(for fastening bolt). - 🔌 Flat blade screwdriver (for disconnecting the connector).
- 🧴 Contact cleaner (WD-40 or analogues).
- 📏 Feeler gauge for checking the gap (optional).
Procedure:
- Disconnect the battery. Remove the negative terminal to avoid short circuit.
- Provide access to the sensor.
- For
QG15DE: Remove the engine protection and the right front wheel (if necessary). - For
QG18DE: Disconnect the air duct pipe if it is in the way.
- For
10 mm. Be careful - the bolt may be over-tightened.8–10 Nm.0.5–1.5 mm. If necessary, adjust it using washers.P0335 disappeared, and the engine runs smoothly - the replacement was successful.⚠️ Attention: On some Almera N16 after replacing the sensor it may be necessary reset ECU adaptations. To do this, disconnect the battery at 10–15 minutes or use a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader).
What should I do if the error does not disappear after replacing the sensor?
If the code P0335 left, check:
1. **Wiring integrity** from the sensor to the ECU (wires near the exhaust manifold often fray).
2. **Condition of the ring gear** on the crankshaft - if the teeth are damaged, the signal will be incorrect.
3. **Supply voltage** at the sensor connector (must be 5 V with the ignition on).
4. **ECU software** - sometimes a flashing of the control unit is required.
Common mistakes when replacing the crankshaft sensor
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to the problem reoccurring. Here are the most common ones:
- 🔧 Incorrect gap between sensor and ring. If the gap is larger
1.5 mm, the signal will be weak; if less0.5 mm— the sensor may touch the crown and fail. - 🔌 Damage to the connector during connection. The contacts on the block are very fragile - do not insert it with force.
- 🛠️ Using an incompatible sensor. For example, a sensor from Nissan Primera P12 looks similar, but has a different resistance.
- 🔩 Insufficient tightening of the fastening bolt. Engine vibrations can dislodge the sensor, causing signal loss.
- 🧲 Installing the sensor without cleaning the seat. Dirt or metal shavings may distort the signal.
To avoid these mistakes, follow the instructions and use only high-quality spare parts. If the problem remains after replacement, contact a specialist for complex diagnostics - it may be faulty itself ring gear or there are problems with ECU.
If after replacing the sensor the engine starts but is unstable, check valve timing — the timing belt may have gone astray.
How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft sensor? Nissan Almera N16?
The cost of replacement depends on whether you do the work yourself or contact a service center. Here are the estimated prices for 2026:
| Types of work/spare parts | Cost (RUB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crankshaft sensor (original) | 3000–4000 | Article 23731-4M000 |
| Crankshaft sensor (analog) | 1200–2200 | Bosch, ERA, Febi |
| Replacing the sensor (by yourself) | 0 (sensor cost only) | Requires a 10 mm wrench and 30–60 minutes of time |
| Replacing the sensor in the service | 800–1500 | Price depends on region and difficulty of access |
| Diagnostics (read errors) | 500–1000 | Usually included in replacement cost |
If you decide to contact the service, choose proven stations with good reviews. Some "garage" repairmen may offer a replacement for 500 rubles, but often such services are accompanied poor quality work (for example, the gap is not checked or the contacts are not cleaned).
If you replace it yourself, the total cost will be limited to the price of the sensor. If you choose analogue, give preference Bosch or ERA — they serve no less than the original, but are cheaper.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera N16
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 won't start. If the sensor works intermittently, you risk experiencing power failures, jerkily or self-stopping the engine on the move, which is dangerous.
Which crankshaft sensor is better to choose for Almera N16 - original or analogue?
Original sensor (23731-4M000) is guaranteed to fit and last a long time, but its price is high. Among analogues, the best reviews are from Bosch 0 261 210 115 And ERA 550433 - they are 30–50% cheaper, but are not inferior in reliability to the original. Avoid cheap no-name sensors (lower price 1000 rubles), as they often fail after a short time.
Do I need to reset errors after replacing the sensor?
Yes, but not always right away. After replacing the sensor:
- Connect the battery and try to start the engine.
- If it starts and runs smoothly, there is an error
P0335should disappear on its own2–3 startup cycles. - If the error remains, reset it using a scanner or by disconnecting the battery at
10 minutes.
If the error appears again, the problem is not in the sensor, but in the wiring or ECU.
Can the crankshaft sensor fail due to dirt?
Yes. The sensor reads the signal from the crankshaft ring gear, and if accumulations accumulate at its end oil deposits or metal shavings, this may distort the signal. Clean the area around the sensor regularly, especially if there are oil leaks from underneath crankshaft oil seal or valve cover.
How to check the crankshaft sensor without a multimeter?
If you don't have a multimeter at hand, you can do visual check And replacement test:
- Remove the sensor and inspect it for damage (cracks, corrosion).
- Clean its end part from dirt with alcohol or gasoline.
- Reinstall the sensor and try starting the car.
- If the error persists, borrow a known working sensor from a friend and install it to check.
If the engine starts with another sensor, your DPKV is faulty.