<em>Nissan Almera G15</em> crankshaft sensor: diagnostics, errors and do-it-yourself replacement

Nissan Almera G15 is a popular sedan known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. However, even in such a car there are components that require special attention. One of them is Crankshaft position sensor (CPS), the serviceability of which determines the stable operation of the engine. If this sensor fails, the engine may stall, lose power, or refuse to start at all.

In this article we will look at how recognize a faulty crankshaft sensor on Almera G15 (including models with engines HR15DE And K4M), which error codes he gives out his name check with a multimeter and replace without contacting service. We will also discuss which sensors are suitable for replacement, their cost and installation nuances.

What is the crankshaft sensor responsible for and how does it work?

Crankshaft position sensor (CPS, or Crankshaft Position Sensor) is key element of the engine management system. It reads data about the position and speed of rotation of the crankshaft, transmitting them to ECU (electronic control unit). Based on this data, the block calculates:

• 🔹 Fuel injection timing — when and how much fuel to supply to the cylinders.
• 🔹 Ignition timing - so that the spark on the candles occurs at the optimal moment.
• 🔹 Valve timing operation (on engines with system VVT).
• 🔹 Engine speed — to adjust the operation of the generator, power steering and other systems.

On Nissan Almera G15 is installed induction sensor (magnetic), which responds to the passage of metal teeth master disk (or reference disk) on the crankshaft. The disc has 58 teeth, two of which are missing - this gap serves reference point to synchronize the operation of the ECU.

If the sensor fails or transmits incorrect data, the ECU cannot correctly calculate ignition and injection timing, which leads to engine malfunctions - from loss of power to complete failure to start.

Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Almera G15

Symptoms of DPKV failure are often similar to malfunctions of other sensors (for example, camshaft sensor or knock sensor), but there are a number of characteristic features:

• ⚠️ Engine won't start — the starter turns, but ignition does not occur (no spark or fuel injection).
• ⚠️ "Floating" speed at idle - the tachometer needle twitches or the speed spontaneously drops to 500-600 rpm.
• ⚠️ Power Loss — the car is “stupid” when accelerating, pulls poorly at low speeds.
• ⚠️ Detonation under load — “ringing” is heard in the engine during sharp acceleration.
• ⚠️ Check Engine light comes on - often accompanied by errors P0335, P0336 or P0320.

Feature Almera G15 is that if the DPKV malfunctions, the engine may start and work, but intermittently. This is due to the fact that the ECU goes into emergency mode, using data from other sensors (for example, camshaft sensor). However, you cannot drive in this mode for a long time - this leads to increased fuel consumption and the risk of damage to the catalyst.

⚠️ Attention: If the engine Almera G15 suddenly stalled and will no longer start, and the dashboard flashes immobilizer — the problem may not be in the DPKV, but in anti-theft system. In this case, diagnostics of the key and ECU is required.

Error codes related to the crankshaft sensor

In case of malfunction of the DPKV ECU Nissan Almera G15 records errors that can be considered a diagnostic scanner (for example, ELM327) or through on-board computer (if it supports outputting codes). Main mistakes:

Error code	Description	Probable Cause
P0335	Crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction	Wire break, contact oxidation, sensor failure
P0336	Crankshaft Sensor Range/Performance Out of Standard	Mechanical damage to the sensor, contamination, incorrect clearance
P0320	Malfunction of the camshaft sensor circuit (may be related to the camshaft sensor)	Problems with synchronization of crankshaft and camshaft sensors
P0300	Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected (misfire)	An indirect sign of DPKV malfunction leading to injection failures

If the scanner shows an error P0335 or P0336, this a direct indication of a problem with DPKV. However, before replacing the sensor you should:

1. Check wiring condition — are there any breaks or short circuits?
2. Clear connector contacts sensor against oxidation (use WD-40 or alcohol).
3. Make sure that gap between sensor and drive disk amounts to 0.5–1.5 mm.

On Almera G15 with engine HR15DE error P0336 may appear due to metal shavings to the sensor (for example, after repairing the clutch or flywheel). In this case, it is enough to clean the sensor and the area around it.

How to check the crankshaft sensor for Nissan Almera G15 multimeter

Before replacing the sensor, you can check it yourself using multimeter. To do this:

1. Remove the sensor — it is located on the oil pump cover (on the gearbox side). Disconnect the connector and unscrew the mounting bolt (usually on 10 mm).
2. Inspect the sensor for cracks, chips or traces of oil. If the housing is damaged, the sensor must be replaced.
3. Ring the winding multimeter in resistance measurement mode (2000 Ohm). Normal resistance for DPKV Almera G15 — 550–750 Ohm.

If resistance:

• 🔴 Close to 0 ohm - short circuit in the winding.
• 🔴 More than 1000 Ohm - circuit break.
• 🟢 Within 550–750 ohms — the sensor is working (but this does not guarantee its functionality under load).

For a more accurate diagnosis, you can check inductance sensor (you will need LC meter). Normal value - 200–400 mH. If the inductance is lower 150 mH, the sensor is faulty.

⚠️ Attention: On Almera G15 with engine K4M (1.6 l) crankshaft sensor may have a different resistance - 800–900 Ohm. Specify the parameters for your modification!

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera G15 - a simple procedure that takes 15–30 minutes. You will need:

• 🔧 Key or head on 10 mm.
• 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for removing the connector).
• 🔧 New sensor (see article below).
• 🔧 Rags and contact cleaner (CRC or WD-40).

Sequence of actions:

1. Disconnect the battery - remove the negative terminal to avoid a short circuit.
2. Find the sensor — it is located on the oil pump cover (on the gearbox side), next to the flywheel. On the engine HR15DE The sensor is secured with one bolt.
3. Disconnect the connector — press the latch and carefully remove the block. If the contacts are oxidized, clean them.
4. Unscrew the fastening bolt and remove the sensor. Be careful - it may “stick” to the seat.
5. Install a new sensor, making sure the O-ring is in place. Tighten the bolt firmly 8–10 Nm.
6. Connect the connector and check the gap between the sensor and the drive disc (should be 0.5–1.5 mm).
7. Connect the battery and start the engine. If the error disappears, the replacement was successful.

After replacement reset errors using a scanner or by disconnecting the battery at 10–15 minutes. If Check Engine lights up again - check:

• 🔹 Correct installation of the sensor (is there any skew).
• 🔹 Integrity of wiring from sensor to ECU.
• 🔹 Condition of the master disk (are there any damage to the teeth).

Which crankshaft sensor to choose for replacement: part numbers and prices

On Nissan Almera G15 Crankshaft position sensors from different manufacturers are installed. Original article - 23731-4M515 (for engine HR15DE) or 23731-95F00 (for K4M). However, the original is expensive (3000–5000 ₽), so many people choose analogues:

Manufacturer	Article	Price (≈)	Notes
Nissan (original)	23731-4M515	3500–4800 ₽	12 months warranty, best quality
Bosch	0 261 210 115	1200–1800 ₽	Good analogue, suitable for most models
Hella	6PT 009 105-041	1500–2000 ₽	High quality, often used in services
ERA	550432	800–1200 ₽	Budget option, average quality
Febi	21610	900–1400 ₽	Suitable for HR15DE And K4M

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 🔹 Winding resistance - must match the original.
• 🔹 Case dimensions — some sensors may not fit in the seat.
• 🔹 Availability of O-ring - if you don’t have it, buy it separately.

If you buy a sensor used, be sure to check it with a multimeter - often such sensors are sold with defects. Also avoid cheap Chinese analogues without a brand - they can last only a few thousand kilometers.

Common mistakes when replacing the crankshaft sensor

Many car owners Nissan Almera G15 encounter problems after replacing the DPKV due to mistakes made. Let's look at the most common ones:

1. Incorrect gap between sensor and disc — if the sensor is installed too close or far away, the signal will be incorrect. Optimal clearance - 0.5–1.5 mm.
2. Wiring damage — when disconnecting the connector, the wires may be damaged. Always test the circuit with a multimeter after installation.
3. Using an incompatible sensor - for example, a sensor from Renault may not fit the characteristics, even if outwardly identical.
4. Unreset ECU errors — after replacing the sensor, you need to reset the errors, otherwise the ECU will continue to operate in emergency mode.

It is also a common situation when, after replacing the sensor, the engine won't start. The reasons may be as follows:

• ❌ Sensor installed in the wrong position (inverted).
• ❌ Damaged master disk (teeth worn or bent).
• ❌ Defective ECU (less common, but it does occur).

If the problem remains after replacing, check:

1. Condition wiring from the sensor to the ECU (are there any breaks or short circuits).
2. Performance camshaft sensor - it also affects synchronization.
3. Availability metal shavings on the flywheel or drive disc.

What should I do if the engine jerks after replacing the sensor?

This may be due to incorrect adaptation of the ECU. Try:

1. Reset errors using the scanner.

2. Drive 5–10 km in quiet mode so that the ECU “learns” new parameters.

3. If the problem persists, check the compatibility of the sensor or contact a service to diagnose the ECU.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera G15

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

Technically possible, but highly undesirable. The ECU will go into emergency mode, which will lead to:

• 🔴 Increased fuel consumption (up to +2–3 l/100 km).
• 🔴 Loss of power and jerks during acceleration.
• 🔴 Risk of damage to the catalyst due to improper fuel combustion.

If the sensor fails completely, the engine may suddenly stall while driving, which is dangerous.

How often should the crankshaft sensor be replaced?

DPKV is not a consumable, and there is no need to change it “according to the regulations”. Replacement is only required if:

• 🔹 When errors appear P0335, P0336.
• 🔹 Mechanical damage (cracks, chips).
• 🔹 Loss of signal (engine does not start or runs intermittently).

Average sensor life - 100–150 thousand km, but it can last longer with careful use.

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

Yes, but only if the problem is pollution (for example, metal shavings or oil). To clean:

1. Remove the sensor from the vehicle.
2. Wipe it down lint-free cloth, soaked in isopropyl alcohol or carburetor cleaner.
3. Blow with compressed air (do not use metal brushes!).

If the sensor is faulty due to internal winding break, cleaning will not help - you need a new one.

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera G15?

On all modifications Almera G15 (including restyling) the sensor is located:

• 🔹 To the right of the oil filter (if you look in the direction of travel).
• 🔹 On oil pump cover, next to the flywheel.
• 🔹Attached one 10 mm bolt.

On the engine HR15DE access to the sensor is more convenient from above, on K4M It may be necessary to remove the protection or jack up the vehicle.

What other sensors can cause similar symptoms?

If signs of a malfunction of the DPKV appear, but the sensor itself is working, check:

• 🔹 Camshaft sensor (error P0340) - affects phase synchronization.
• 🔹 Knock sensor — may cause “jerking” during acceleration.
• 🔹 Mass air flow sensor (MAF) - leads to floating speed.
• 🔹 High voltage wires and spark plugs — misfires simulate a DPKV malfunction.

For an accurate diagnosis, use a scanner that will show real parameters sensor operation.