Fault code P0335 on Nissan Primera P12 (2002-2008) - One of the most common problems associated with the ignition system and engine sensors. This error indicates a problem with the circuit. crankshaft position (CKP) sensor, which can lead to unstable engine operation, difficult starting, or even a complete stop of the car. Owners Primera P12 with gasoline engines QR20DE And QR25DE encounter it most often, but the reasons and solutions may vary depending on the mileage and operating conditions.

In this article we will analyze in detail what it means P0335, how to correctly diagnose it (including checking with a multimeter and oscilloscope), and also provide step-by-step instructions for eliminating it - from simply cleaning the contacts to replacing the sensor or repairing the wiring. We will pay special attention typical diagnostic errors that lead to unnecessary replacement of serviceable parts. If your Nissan stalls while driving, has trouble starting or misfires Check Engine with this code - here you will find the answers.

What does P0335 mean? Nissan Primera P12

Code P0335 stands for "Crankshaft Position Sensor (Bank 1) Circuit Malfunction". In the system OBD-II it belongs to the category «Circuit Malfunction», that is, the problem is not necessarily related to the sensor itself, but to its power circuit, signal wire or ground. On Primera P12 The CKP sensor is located on the cylinder block next to the flywheel and is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the fuel injectors and the ignition system.

When the ECU (electronic control unit) detects P0335, this means one of three things:

  • 🔌 Open or short circuit in the sensor wires (most often - signal wire or “ground”);
  • 📉 Weak or no signal from the sensor (for example, due to contamination, mechanical damage or wear);
  • 🔧 Malfunction of the sensor itself or its incorrect installation (the gap between the sensor and the flywheel should be 0.5–1.5 mm).

It is important to understand that P0335 - this is not a death sentence for the engine, but it cannot be ignored. Driving for a long time with this error can lead to:

  • ⚡ Misfires and increased fuel consumption;
  • 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst due to an incorrect air-fuel mixture;
  • 🚗 Completely stopping the engine while moving (especially at high speeds).
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Primera P12 error with automatic transmission P0335 may block gear shifting in mode D — The ECU puts the box into emergency mode. In this case, the engine will only operate in 1st or 2nd gears.

Symptoms of error P0335: how they manifest themselves in practice

Error P0335 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually preceded by noticeable changes in the behavior of the car. Here are typical signs that should alert you:

Symptom Probable Cause Danger level
Engine stalls while driving, then starts with difficulty Missing signal from CKP sensor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (critical)
Floating speed at idle (500–1500 rpm) Unstable sensor signal ⭐⭐⭐ (average)
Lights up Check Engine, the engine “troits” The ECU goes into emergency mode ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high)
The car does not start (the starter clicks, but does not engage) Complete absence of signal from CKP ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (critical)
Loss of power, jerking during acceleration Incorrect ignition timing ⭐⭐⭐ (average)

On Primera P12 with engine QR25DE error P0335 often accompanied by additional codes such as P0300 (misfire) or P0340 (camshaft sensor malfunction). If you see a combination P0335 + P0340, the problem is most likely in the timing of the valve timing (for example, a stretched timing belt).

Interesting fact: on some Nissan Primera P12 after 2005 error P0335 may appear sporadically in humid weather. This is due to water entering the sensor connector through cracks in the wire insulation. If symptoms appear only “after rain,” first check the tightness of the connections.

📊 How often do you get P0335?
  • Regularly, almost every time you start
  • Sometimes, once every few days
  • Only after washing or rain
  • First time encounter, looking for a solution

Causes of P0335: from simple to complex

Diagnosis of the error P0335 on Nissan Primera P12 should start with the simplest and cheapest checks. According to service center statistics, in 60% of cases The problem lies in the wires or contacts, and not in the sensor itself. Here is a complete list of possible causes, sorted by likelihood:

  1. CKP sensor dirty or damaged (for example, metal shavings at the end of the sensor).
  2. Oxidation or poor contact in the sensor connector (often after washing or in damp weather).
  3. Break or short circuit in the wires (the signal wire going to the ECU is especially vulnerable).
  4. Incorrect gap between sensor and flywheel (must be 0.5–1.5 mm).
  5. Malfunction of the sensor itself (broken internal winding or failure of the electronic part).
  6. Flywheel problems (chips of teeth, runout - rare, but occurs after unqualified repairs).
  7. ECU malfunction (extremely rare, usually accompanied by other errors, e.g. U1000).

On Primera P12 with mileage for 150,000 km most often to blame wires - they rub against the brackets or the insulation from a nearby exhaust manifold melts. Also often found contact corrosion in the ECU connector (especially if the car was operated in regions with salty roads).

⚠️ Attention: If the error P0335 appeared after replacing the timing belt or repairing the engine, check to see if the timing marks are out of order. On QR20DE And QR25DE even a slight misalignment of 1-2 teeth can cause this error.
How to check timing marks without removing the cover?

On Nissan Primera P12 You can approximately estimate the coincidence of the marks through the inspection window on the belt casing (next to the generator). When the crankshaft rotates, the mark on the pulley should coincide with the mark on the block, and the camshaft cams should be directed upward (for the 1st cylinder at TDC).

Diagnosing error P0335: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P0335, you will need a multimeter (preferably with a diode test mode) and, ideally, an oscilloscope. If you don’t have an oscilloscope, you can do without it. Below is the verification algorithm used by professional diagnosticians.

Step 1: Visual Inspection of Sensor and Wiring

  • 🔍 Inspect the CKP sensor for cracks, chips or traces of oil. The end of the sensor must be clean (no metal shavings).
  • 🔌 Check the sensor connector: the contacts should not be oxidized or bent. Pay special attention green-white wire (signal) and black (“mass”)
  • 🔗 Trace the wiring from the sensor to the ECU: it should not be pinched or frayed. On Primera P12 Frequent break points are near the exhaust manifold and under the air intake.

Step 2: Check Sensor Resistance

Disconnect the sensor connector and measure the resistance between its terminals:

  • Normal resistance for CKP sensor is at Nissan Primera P12: 500–1500 Ohm.
  • If resistance 0 ohm - break inside the sensor.
  • If resistance ∞ (infinity) - short circuit.

Step 3: Checking the Supply Voltage

Turn on the ignition (but do not start the engine) and check the voltage at the sensor connector:

  • Between red wire (+12V) and black (“mass”) should be 11.5–12.5 V.
  • If there is no voltage, the problem is in the power circuit (check the fuse ECU-IG in the block under the hood).

Step 4: Check the signal with an oscilloscope (optional)

If you have an oscilloscope, connect it to the sensor signal wire (green-white) and ground. When the crankshaft is rotated by the starter, it should display sinusoid with amplitude 0.5–5 V. The absence of a signal or its instability confirms a faulty sensor or wiring.

Visually checked the CKP sensor for contamination|Measured the sensor resistance (500–1500 Ohm)|Checked the supply voltage (11.5–12.5 V)|Inspected the wiring for breaks and short circuits|Checked the timing marks (if necessary)-->

How to fix P0335: from cleaning to replacement

Depending on the diagnostic results, solutions P0335 can range from simple cleaning of contacts to replacing a sensor or repairing wiring. Below are detailed instructions for each case.

1. Cleaning the sensor and contacts

If the sensor is contaminated with metal shavings or oil deposits:

  • 🧹 Carefully clean the end of the sensor lint-free cloth, soaked in WD-40 or isopropyl alcohol.
  • 🔧 Check the gap between the sensor and the flywheel (should be 0.5–1.5 mm). If necessary, adjust the position of the sensor.
  • 🔌 Clean the connector contacts contact fluid (For example, CRC Contact Cleaner).

2. Wiring repair

If an open or short circuit is detected:

  • 🔗 Restore the damaged section of the wire using soldering and heat shrinking (twists are not allowed!).
  • 🛠️ If the wire is rubbed against the bracket, insulate it and secure it in another place.
  • 🔌 Check the “mass” of the sensor: it should be securely attached to the body without rust.

3. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor

If the sensor is faulty (open circuit, short circuit or incorrect signal), it must be replaced. For Nissan Primera P12 Sensors with article numbers are suitable:

  • 23731-4M000 (original Nissan);
  • 23731-4M010 (analogue for QR20DE/QR25DE);
  • BOS 0 261 210 046 (high-quality non-original from Bosch).

The cost of the original sensor is approx. 3 000–5 000 ₽, analogue - 1 500–2 500 ₽.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the sensor do not use sealant on its seat - this can lead to a displacement of the gap. It is enough to clean the surface and securely tighten the fastening bolt to a torque 8–10 Nm.
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If after replacing the sensor the error P0335 left, check connection polarity. On some non-original sensors, the contacts may be mixed up - compare the pinout with the old sensor.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Primera P12 make the same mistakes when eliminating P0335, which leads to a recurrence of the problem or a worsening of the situation. Here are the most common mistakes:

  1. Replacing the sensor without checking the wiring. B 40% of cases The problem lies in a break in the signal wire, and not in the sensor itself. Always check the circuit with a multimeter!
  2. Using twists instead of soldering. CKP sensor wires operate under vibration conditions - the twist will quickly oxidize and lead to repeated P0335.
  3. Incorrect gap between sensor and flywheel. If the gap is larger 1.5 mm, the signal will be weak; if less 0.5 mm — the sensor may touch the flywheel.
  4. Ignoring timing marks. After replacing the timing belt, always check that the marks match - even a slight misalignment will cause P0335.
  5. Buying cheap non-original sensors. Sensors from unknown brands often have unstable characteristics, which leads to repeated errors.

Another common mistake is resetting the error without eliminating the cause. If you just erase P0335 scanner (for example, ELM327), she will return after a few kilometers. Always address the root cause!

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If after all checks and replacements there is an error P0335 remains, the problem may lie in ECU or firmware. In this case, diagnostics using professional equipment is required (for example, Consult-III).

Prevention: How to Avoid Recurrence of P0335

To make a mistake P0335 did not return after repair, follow these recommendations:

  • 🔧 Regularly (once every 30,000 km) Clean the CKP sensor from dirt and oil deposits.
  • 🌧️ Check the tightness of the sensor connector, especially before washing or in rainy weather.
  • 🔌 Once a year, treat the sensor and ECU contacts contact lubricant (For example, Liqui Moly Kontaktreiniger).
  • 🚗 Avoid driving through deep puddles - water getting on the sensor can cause a short circuit.
  • 🔍 When replacing the timing belt, always check the alignment of the marks and the condition of the flywheel (for chipped teeth).

If your Nissan Primera P12 used in conditions of high humidity or salty roads, recommended once every 2 years Check the condition of the CKP sensor wiring. Oxidation of contacts and corrosion of the “mass” are the main reasons for the spontaneous appearance P0335.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with P0335?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with this error can lead to:

  • Increased fuel consumption (up to +30%);
  • Overheating of the catalyst and its failure;
  • Complete engine stop while driving (especially at high speeds).

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to your home or service center, but it is better not to delay repairs.

How much does it cost to diagnose P0335 in a service?

The cost of diagnostics depends on the region and level of service:

  • Basic computer diagnostics (reading errors): 500–1 500 ₽;
  • Full diagnostics (checking sensor, wiring, oscilloscope): 2 000–4 000 ₽;
  • Comprehensive diagnostics (including checking timing marks and ECU): 5 000–8 000 ₽.

Self-diagnosis with a multimeter will be free (if you already have a device).

Which CKP sensor is better to choose for replacement?

For Nissan Primera P12 optimal options:

  • Original (23731-4M000) - reliability 95%, but expensive;
  • Bosch (0 261 210 046) - the best non-original, reliability 90%;
  • Denso (550-0101) - good quality, but there are fakes;
  • Phoenix (CKP003) - a budget option, but the resource is less.

Avoid sensors without a brand or with questionable part numbers - they often fail after 10–20 thousand km.

Could P0335 be caused by bad gas?

No, P0335 is not directly related to fuel quality. However, bad gasoline can cause Misfire (P0300), which indirectly affect the operation of the CKP sensor. If the error appears after refueling, first check the spark plugs and ignition coils.

Do I need to reset the error after repair?

Yes, but not right away. After eliminating the cause:

  1. Start the engine and let it run 5–10 minutes at idle;
  2. Drive 5–10 km with different load modes;
  3. If Check Engine does not light up again - reset the error using the scanner.

If the error returns, the problem has not been completely resolved.