The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the key elements of the engine management system Nissan Primera (especially models P11 And P12 with motors GA16DE, SR20DE, QR20DE). Its failure leads to a complete stop of the engine or unstable operation, and diagnostics often show an error P0335 or P0340. Despite the apparent simplicity of replacement, the procedure has nuances: from the location of the sensor (which differs depending on the year of manufacture) to the correct selection of an analogue compatible with the ECU Nissan.

This article contains an analysis of all stages: how check DPKV without a scanner, what tools are needed for replacement, how to avoid common mistakes (for example, damage to the connector or incorrect setting of the gap). And also - a table of sensor compatibility for different modifications Primera, tips for choosing between the original (Nissan 23731-4M200) and analogues (Bosch 0 261 210 115, Febi 27326), and answers to frequently asked questions. If after replacement the engine does not start, check connector connection polarity: on some versions of P12, contacts “A” and “B” are inverted relative to the standard circuit.

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Primera

Engine management system Nissan Primera does not have redundant sensors for the crankshaft, so its failure manifests itself immediately and unambiguously. However, symptoms may overlap with other component faults (for example, ignition coils or injectors). Here are the key signs that point specifically to DPKV:

  • 🚗 Engine won't start in general (the starter turns, but there is no spark and no fuel injection).
  • ⚡ Lights up on the dashboard CHECK ENGINE with errors P0335 ("Crankshaft sensor circuit") or P0340 ("Camshaft sensor" - indirectly).
  • 🔄 Engine stalls while driving and does not start until it cools down (typical of a partial breakdown of the sensor insulation).
  • 📉 Floating idle speed (from 500 to 1500 rpm) when the engine is warm.
  • 💥 Jerks and dips during acceleration, especially at speeds of 2000–3000 (the ECU loses the signal from the DPKV).

Feature Primera P11/P12: If the sensor is completely out of order, the ECU Nissan may block fuel supply to the cylinders, even if the starter is turning. In this case check for voltage at the DPKV connector (must be 12 V between contacts 1 (+) And 2 (mass)). Lack of power is often due to a blown fuse ECU-IG (10A) in the block under the hood.

⚠️ Attention: On motors SR20DE (1999–2002) The crankshaft sensor may produce false alarms when the engine vibrates strongly. Before replacing, check the fastening of the DPKV bracket - loose bolts lead to an increase in the gap and loss of signal.

For accurate diagnosis, use a scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327) and check the parameters in real time:

  • 📊 RPM (engine speed) - should be displayed even when cranking with the starter. If it shows 0 — DPKV is faulty.
  • 🔍 Sync Status - if the value No, The ECU does not receive the synchronization signal.
📊 What symptom of DPKV malfunction did your Primera have?
  • Engine won't start
  • Stalls while driving
  • Floating speed
  • Jerks during acceleration
  • Other

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Primera P11 and P12

The location of the DPKV depends on the engine type and year of manufacture. On most Primera P11 (1996–2002) and P12 (2002–2007) the sensor is installed in one of three places:

  1. On the cylinder block (on the right in the direction of travel, next to the oil filter) - typical for engines GA16DE And SR20DE.
  2. On the timing cover (from the crankshaft pulley side) - found on QR20DE (P12 after 2004).
  3. On the gearbox bracket - rare, but happens in early versions GA14DE.

To find the sensor:

  1. Remove decorative engine cover (if any).
  2. Follow wiring harness, coming from the ECU to the front of the engine.
  3. Look for a cylindrical housing with a connector, secured with one bolt (usually on 10 mm).

The photo below shows a typical location for SR20DE:

Photo of the location of the DPKV on the SR20DE

The sensor is located to the right of the oil filter, next to the generator. It is bolted to the cylinder block with a 10 mm bolt and has a two-pin black connector.

Engine model Years of manufacture DPKV location Original sensor code
GA16DE 1996–2002 Cylinder block, right Nissan 23731-4M200
SR20DE 1999–2007 Cylinder block, next to the generator Nissan 23731-4M210
QR20DE 2002–2007 Timing cover, pulley side Nissan 23731-AL50A
⚠️ Attention: On Primera P12 with motor QR20DE The crankshaft sensor is often confused with the camshaft sensor due to its close location. Focus on the connector: DPKV has it two-pin, at DPRV - three-pin.

How to check the crankshaft sensor without a scanner

If you don’t have diagnostic equipment at hand, the DPKV can be checked with a multimeter or oscilloscope. To do this:

1. Resistance check

  • 🔧 Disconnect the sensor connector.
  • 📊 Switch the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 Ohm).
  • 🔌 Connect the probes to the sensor contacts (polarity is not important).

Normal values:

  • 🟢 500–700 Ohm - for original sensors Nissan.
  • 🟡 600–900 Ohm - for analogues (Bosch, Febi).
  • 🔴 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break) - the sensor is faulty.

2. Inductance check

To do this, you will need a megohmmeter or a multimeter with an inductance measurement function:

  • 🔍 Measure the inductance between the sensor terminals.
  • 📏 Norm: 200–400 mH.

3. Checking the signal with an oscilloscope

The most accurate method is to connect the oscilloscope to the signal wire of the sensor (usually pin 2) and crank the engine with the starter. A working DPKV should issue sine wave with an amplitude of at least 0.5 V.

💡

If you don't have an oscilloscope at hand, use an LED probe: connect it between the signal wire and ground. When the starter is cranked, the LED should blink at a frequency proportional to the revolutions.

Also check:

  • 🔋 Availability 12 V on the sensor power supply (contact 1).
  • 🔌 Integrity of wires from DPKV to ECU (often rubbed against the generator bracket).

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

To replace DPKV with Nissan Primera you will need:

  • 🔧 Socket wrench or socket on 10 mm.
  • 🔨 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the connector lock).
  • 🧴 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant (the bolt often sticks).
  • 📏 Feeler gauge for checking the gap (optional).

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery|Remove the decorative engine cover|Clean the area around the sensor from dirt|Prepare a new sensor and tools-->

Step 1: Removing the old sensor

  1. Disconnect power connector from the DPKV by pressing the latch.
  2. Process the fastening bolt WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
  3. Unscrew the bolt with a wrench 10 mm and carefully remove the sensor.

Step 2: Installing a New Sensor

  1. Clean the seat from oil and dirt (use carbcleaner).
  2. Install the new sensor, making sure the O-ring is intact.
  3. Tighten the fastening bolt to a torque 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).
  4. Connect the connector until the latch clicks.

Step 3: Checking the Gap

On most Primera the gap between the end of the sensor and crankshaft ring gear must be 0.5–1.5 mm. You can check it:

  • 📏 With a probe (insert between the sensor and the crown).
  • 🔧 Or adjust the position of the sensor by placing washers under the mount.
💡

After replacing the DPKV, be sure to reset the errors from the ECU memory! To do this, disconnect the battery for 10 minutes or use a scanner (command Clear DTC).

Sensor selection: original vs analogues

Original sensors Nissan reliable, but cost 2-3 times more expensive than analogues. Below is a comparison of popular options:

Manufacturer Article Compatibility Average price, ₽ Features
Original Nissan 23731-4M200 GA16DE, SR20DE (P11) 3500–4500 1 year warranty, accurate calibration
Bosch 0 261 210 115 All Primera models 1800–2200 High quality, but may require additional clearance adjustment
Febi 27326 GA16DE, QR20DE 1200–1500 Budget option, possible problems with inductance
Blue Print ADG02703 SR20DE (P12) 1600–1900 Good price/quality ratio

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Inductance: must match the original (200–400 mH).
  • 📏 Body length: on some analogs (Febi) the sensor may be 2–3 mm shorter, which will require adjustment of the gap.
  • 🔌 Connector type: on Primera P12 with QR20DE The connector may be of the “European” standard (straight) and not of the “Japanese” standard (angled).
⚠️ Attention: On motors SR20DE after 2003, sensors with reverse polarity (plus and minus are swapped in the connector). If after replacement the engine does not start, check the pinout according to the ECU diagram.

Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when replacing DPKV with Nissan Primera. Here are the most common:

  • 🔧 Overtightened mounting bolt → a crack in the sensor body or deformation of the seat.
  • 🔌 Incorrect connector connection → reverse polarity (typical for SR20DE).
  • 📏 Incorrect clearance → weak signal or no signal.
  • 💧 Oil getting on the end of the sensor → short circuit.
  • 🔋 Ignoring errors in the ECU → new errors after replacement.

How to avoid problems:

  1. Before installing a new sensor check resistance (must match the original).
  2. Use torque wrench to tighten the bolt (max. 10 Nm).
  3. After replacement crank the engine with the starter (without starting) and check the signal with an oscilloscope.
What should I do if the engine does not start after replacement?

1. Check the polarity of the connector (on the SR20DE the contacts may be reversed).

2. Make sure that 12 V is supplied to the sensor (check the wiring from the ECU).

3. Reset errors using a scanner or by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes.

4. Check the gap - it should be no more than 1.5 mm.

Frequently asked questions about replacing DPKV on a Nissan Primera

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. DPKV is a critical element. Without its signal, the ECU cannot synchronize injection and ignition. The engine will either not start or will run intermittently, which will lead to damage to the catalyst or overheating.

Which sensor is suitable for Primera P11 with GA16DE engine?

Original article - Nissan 23731-4M200. Suitable analogues:

  • Bosch 0 261 210 115 (best choice)
  • Febi 27326 (budget option),
  • Blue Print ADG02703 (good quality).

Before purchasing, check the resistance (should be 500–700 Ohm).

Do I need to adjust the clearance after replacement?

On most Primera The gap is set automatically thanks to the sealing ring. However, on engines QR20DE (P12) may require adjustment with washers. Optimal clearance - 0.5–1.5 mm. You can check it with a probe or calibrated wire.

Why did P0340 (camshaft sensor) appear after replacing the sensor?

This error often occurs due to:

  1. Unreset errors in the ECU (you need to clear the memory with a scanner).
  2. Wiring problems (check camshaft sensor circuit).
  3. Incompatible DPKV (for example, if you installed a sensor from GA16DE on SR20DE).

Also on Primera P12 error P0340 may appear when incorrect timing phase (check the labels!).

Is it possible to clean the old sensor instead of replacing it?

Cleaning is only possible if the problem is contamination of the end (oil, metal shavings). Use carbcleaner or isopropyl alcohol. However, if the sensor has:

  • Winding break (resistance ∞),
  • Short circuit (resistance 0 ohm),
  • Cracks on the body

- it needs to be replaced. Soldering contacts or sealing the case will not give long-term results.