Error code P0335 on Nissan Almera Classic: what does it mean and how to fix it?

Error P0335 on Nissan Almera Classic (body B15) is one of the most insidious malfunctions that owners of this car encounter. It signals problems with crankshaft position sensor (CPS), but often the reason lies deeper - from banal oxidation of contacts to serious problems in the electrical circuit or even mechanical damage to the sensor itself. Unlike other errors, P0335 can appear sporadically, which complicates diagnosis: the car either starts with difficulty, then works normally, and then stalls again a day later..

In this article we will analyze not only the standard reasons for the appearance of P0335, but also unique features Almera Classic, which are often overlooked even by experienced craftsmen. For example, why an error can occur after washing the engine or replacing the timing belt, how to check the sensor without a scanner, and why sometimes a simple ECU reboot helps. You will also find step-by-step instructions with photos, spare parts compatibility tables and answers to frequently asked questions - from “is it possible to drive with P0335” to “how much does the original DPKV cost for Almera Classic”.

What does error P0335 mean on Nissan Almera Classic?

Code P0335 stands for "Circuit Malfunction in the Crankshaft Position Sensor" — a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor circuit. This sensor (aka DPKV) is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the ignition and fuel injection systems. If the ECU (electronic control unit) does not receive the correct signal from the DPKV, the engine:

• 🔴 Doesn’t start at all (the starter turns, but there are no flashes in the cylinders).
• 🟡 It starts with difficulty, runs intermittently or stalls at idle.
• 🟠 It starts normally, but there is an error P0335 periodically appears and disappears.

On Nissan Almera Classic (especially with engines QG15DE And QG18DE) error P0335 often accompanied by additional codes such as P0340 (phase sensor) or P0300 (misfire). This is due to the fact that the ECU loses synchronization and begins to "guess" when to supply spark and fuel. Unlike more modern models Nissan, where the DPKV usually fails gradually, at Almera Classic it may fail due to:

• 🔌 Poor contact in the connector (oxidation, broken wires).
• 🧲 Metal shavings on the sensor magnet (crankshaft gear wear).
• 🔋 Power problems (fuse blown or wiring faulty).
• 🛠️ Mechanical damage to the sensor itself (for example, after carelessly replacing the timing belt).

Symptoms of error P0335: how it manifests itself on Almera Classic

On Nissan Almera Classic error P0335 rarely appears “alone” - it is usually accompanied by specific signs of a malfunction. Here are typical symptoms that should alert you:

Symptom	Probable Cause	Urgency of repair
The engine does not start, the starter turns "idle"	Complete failure of the DPKV or open circuit	❗ Critical
Starts only after several attempts, runs with vibration	Weak signal from the sensor (dirty, unstable contact)	⚠️ High
Error P0335 appears after washing the engine or rain	Moisture in the sensor connector or cracks in the wire insulation	⚠️ Average
Floating speed, jerking during acceleration	Unstable DPKV signal (crankshaft gear wear)	⚠️ High
The error disappears after resetting the ECU, but returns after 100-200 km	Intermittent sensor failure (needs replacement)	⚠️ Average

Feature Almera Classic is that the mistake P0335 may masquerade as other problems. For example, many owners confuse it with a malfunction phase sensor (P0340) or even ignition coils. To accurately diagnose the problem, pay attention to:

• 🔦 Engine behavior when cold and hot: If the error appears only after warming up, the sensor is to blame rather than the wiring.
• 📊 Additional errors: if together with P0335 gets out P0325 (knock sensor circuit open), the problem may be in the wiring harness.
• 🔊 Extraneous sounds: A grinding or knocking sound when the crankshaft rotates may indicate mechanical damage to the gear.

⚠️ Attention! If on your Almera Classic error P0335 appeared after replacing the timing belt, immediately check the installation of the sensor. Incorrect clearance between the DPKV and the crankshaft gear (should be 0.5–1.5 mm) may cause false positives.

Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on Almera Classic

On Nissan Almera Classic (body B15) The crankshaft position sensor is located at the bottom of the engine, next to the flywheel. The exact location depends on the engine type:

• 🔧 On QG15DE (1.5 l): DPKV is installed on the oil pump cover, to the right of the flywheel (when viewed in the direction of travel).
• 🔧 On QG18DE (1.8 l): The sensor is located slightly higher, closer to the gearbox, and is attached with one bolt to the 10 mm.

To get to the sensor you will need:

1. Remove the engine protection (if equipped).
2. Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery.
3. On the engine QG15DE — remove the air filter for convenience.
4. On the engine QG18DE - You may have to remove the starter (depending on the year of manufacture).

The sensor itself is a cylindrical housing with a connector for two wires (signal and ground). On the original DPKV for Almera Classic marked 23731-4M000 or 23731-4M005 (depending on the year). Be careful: there are many fakes on the market that are indistinguishable from the original, but fail after 1-2 months.

How to distinguish original DPKV from a fake

Original sensor from Nissan has:

1. Clear engraving of the logo and catalog number (without chips or blurring).

2. Magnetic core with a uniform coating (counterfeits often show traces of casting).

3. Plastic body without burrs and with uniform color (counterfeits are usually duller).

4. Packaging with a hologram and barcode, which can be checked at the official dealer.

Do-it-yourself step-by-step diagnostics of error P0335

Before you run to the store for a new sensor, conduct a comprehensive diagnostic. In 60% of cases, the problem lies not in the DPKV itself, but in the wiring or connector. Here is the verification algorithm for Nissan Almera Classic:

1. Check the sensor power circuit (fuse F10, relay)

2. Inspect the DPKV connector for oxidation and breaks

3. Measure the resistance of the sensor (should be 500–700 Ohm)

4. Check the gap between the sensor and the crankshaft gear

5. Reset errors and test the engine in different modes

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Step 1: Check the fuse and relay

On Almera Classic The crankshaft position sensor circuit is protected by a fuse. F10 (10A) in the mounting block (located to the left of the steering wheel, under the panel). Also check the relay R12, which is responsible for powering the ECU. If the fuse is blown, do not rush to replace it - first find the cause of the short circuit (most often it is frayed wires near the exhaust manifold).

Step 2: Inspect the Connector and Wiring

Disconnect the connector from the DPKV and check:

• 🔌 Contacts: there should be no green coating (oxidation) or black spots (burn).
• 🔍 Wires: often rub against the box bracket or exhaust manifold.
• 💧 Traces of moisture: if the connector is wet, there is a problem with the seal (the chip needs to be replaced).

Step 3: Check the sensor resistance

Take a multimeter and measure the resistance between the DPKV terminals. Normal values for Almera Classic:

• 🔹 QG15DE: 550–650 Ohm.
• 🔹 QG18DE: 600–700 Ohm.

If the resistance is lower 400 Ohm or higher 900 Ohm, the sensor is faulty. Also check for a short to ground (the resistance between any terminal and the sensor body should be infinite).

Step 4. Checking the signal with an oscilloscope (for advanced)

If you have access to an oscilloscope or scanner with a signal viewing function, connect to the DPKV pin and start the engine. A normal signal should be smooth pulses with an amplitude 0.5–1.5 V. If the signal:

• 📉 Too weak (<0.3 V) - the problem is in the gap or magnet of the sensor.
• 📈 Too strong (>2 V) - the shielding braid may break.
• 🔄 Intermittent - crankshaft gear or wiring fault.

⚠️ Attention! On Almera Classic with engine QG18DE after 2005, the crankshaft position sensor may give false alarms due to a malfunction immobilizer. If the error P0335 appears along with a flashing immo light, check the antenna around the ignition switch.

How to fix P0335: repair or replace?

If diagnostics show that the sensor is faulty, it must be replaced. However, in some cases you can get by with minor repairs. Let's consider both options.

Option 1. Repair (if the problem is not with the sensor)

• 🔧 Cleaning contacts: If the connector is oxidized, treat it WD-40 or a special contact cleaner (CRC).
• 🧵 Wiring repair: if the wires are frayed, insulate them with heat shrink or replace the harness (part number of the original harness - 24540-4M000).
• 🔩 Gap adjustment: If the sensor is misaligned, set the gap 0.5–1.5 mm between its core and the crankshaft gear.

Option 2: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor

To replace DPKV with Almera Classic you will need:

• 🔧 Key on 10 mm (for fastening bolt).
• 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for removing the connector).
• 🔧 New sensor (original or high-quality analogue).

Step by step instructions:

1. Disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal).
2. Disconnect the connector from the sensor (press the latch and pull up).
3. Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt with a wrench 10 mm.
4. Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side (do not pull by force to avoid damaging the wiring!).
5. Install the new sensor in reverse order. Important: Do not over-tighten the bolt as this may deform the housing.
6. Connect the battery and reset the errors with a scanner (or by removing the terminal for 10 minutes).

Cost of spare parts (for 2026):

Spare part	Original (Nissan)	High-quality analogue	Article
Crankshaft position sensor	2 500–3 200 ₽	800–1 500 ₽ (Bosch, Denso)	23731-4M000 / 23731-4M005
DPKV wiring harness	4 000–5 500 ₽	1 800–2 500 ₽	24540-4M000
Connector (chip) DPKV	1 200–1 800 ₽	400–800 ₽	24542-4M000

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Almera Classic are faced with the fact that after replacing the DPKV there is an error P0335 doesn't disappear. This occurs due to typical repair errors:

• 🔌 Incorrect clearance: If the sensor is installed too close or too far from the gear, the signal will be incorrect. Use a feeler gauge thick 1 mm for checking.
• 🔧 Connector damage: When disconnecting the chip, it is easy to break the plastic retainer. If the connector does not lock, replace it.
• 🧲 Metal shavings: Before installing a new sensor, clear the mounting area of metal particles (they can become magnetized and damage the sensor).
• 🔋 Unreset errors: after replacing the DPKV, be sure to reset the errors using a scanner or removing the battery terminal for 10+ minutes.

Another common problem is purchasing a low-quality sensor. There are many fake brands on the market Bosch And Denso, which are externally indistinguishable from the original, but fail after 1–2 months. To avoid this:

• 🛒 Buy only from trusted suppliers (for example, Exist.ru, Autodoc).
• 🔍 Check the packaging for the presence of a hologram and barcode.
• 📦 Compare the weight of the sensor: the original weighs approx. 50 grams, fakes are often lighter.

⚠️ Attention! If after replacing the DPKV there is an error P0335 appeared again, check crankshaft gear for chipped or worn teeth. On Almera Classic With a mileage of more than 200,000 km, the gear may wear out, which leads to an incorrect sensor signal. In this case, it will be necessary to replace the flywheel or gear (part number 12305-4M000).

Is it possible to drive with P0335?

Technically, driving with an error P0335 it's possible, but highly undesirable. Here's what awaits you if you ignore the problem:

• 🚗 Difficulty starting: Over time, the engine will start more and more poorly, especially when cold.
• ⚡ Increased fuel consumption: due to an incorrect DPKV signal, the ECU goes into emergency mode, enriching the mixture.
• 💥 Risk of serious damage: if the sensor fails completely, the engine may stall while driving (for example, on the highway), which can lead to an accident.
• 🔧 Additional faults: Long-term operation in emergency mode leads to wear of the catalyst and spark plugs.

If the error P0335 appeared for the first time and the car behaves normally, you can drive to your home or service station. But if:

• 🔴 The engine stalls while driving,
• 🔴 The error is accompanied by knocking or grinding sounds,
• 🔴 Other errors light up on the dashboard (P0300, P0325),

then operate the car absolutely not possible - Call a tow truck.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P0335 on Nissan Almera Classic

Can P0335 be caused by bad gasoline?

No, P0335 is not directly related to fuel quality. However, if detonation occurred due to bad gasoline, this could damage the crankshaft gear, which in turn led to an incorrect DPKV signal. In this case, you will need to diagnose the gear (part number 12305-4M000).

After replacing the DPKV, error P0335 remained. What's the matter?

There may be several reasons:

1. Poor quality sensor (fake).
2. Incorrect gap between sensor and gear (should be 0.5–1.5 mm).
3. Damage to the wiring or connector (check the circuit with a multimeter).
4. Malfunction of the crankshaft gear (teeth wear or chips).
5. Problems with the ECU (less common, but it happens after “lighting up” or a short circuit).

Start by checking the gap and wiring, then test the sensor with an oscilloscope.

How much does it cost to replace the DPKV on an Almera Classic?

The cost of service work depends on the region and complexity:

• 🔧 Replacing the sensor: 800–1 500 ₽.
• 🔧 Diagnostics + replacement: 1 500–2 500 ₽.
• 🔧 If it is necessary to remove the starter (on QG18DE): 2 000–3 000 ₽.

Replacing it yourself will take about 30-60 minutes and will save you money.

Can I use DPKV from other Nissan models?

Yes, but only if the catalog numbers match. For example, a sensor from Nissan Primera P12 (article 23731-4M000) suitable for Almera Classic with engine QG15DE. However, sensors from Nissan X-Trail or Qashqai are not compatible - they have a different connector and signal parameters.

The P0335 code only appears when it rains. What to do?

This is a typical sign of moisture getting into the DPKV connector or cracks in the wire insulation. Solution:

1. Remove the connector, clean the contacts and treat them WD-40 or silicone grease.
2. Check the wires for cracks (especially near the exhaust manifold).
3. If the problem persists, replace the chip or wiring harness (part number 24540-4M000).