The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most important elements of the engine management system. Nissan Almera Classic. Stable operation of the engine, correct starting and even fuel consumption depend on its serviceability. However, when this sensor breaks down, many owners are faced with a problem: where exactly is it located under the hood? Unlike more modern models, Almera Classic (especially in the back B10 And N16) access to the DPKV can be complicated by attachments.

In this article we will not only show exact location of the crankshaft sensor with photographs and diagrams, but also let’s look at:

  • 🔍 Symptoms of a problem DPKV, which are often confused with ignition or fuel system problems.
  • 🛠️ How to check the sensor multimeter without removal (step-by-step instructions with standard values).
  • ⚙️ Phased replacement taking into account the nuances for engines GA16DE And QR20DE.
  • ⚠️ Common mistakes, which are allowed during diagnosis and repair (and how to avoid them).

If your Nissan Almera Classic hard to start, stalls while driving or lights up on the dashboard Check Engine with an error P0335 or P0336 — this article will help you accurately identify the culprit and fix the problem without extra costs.

Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera Classic: photo and diagram

On Nissan Almera Classic (including restyled versions) the crankshaft position sensor is installed in bottom of cylinder block, next to the flywheel. The specific location depends on the engine type:

  • 🔧 On motors GA16DE (1.6 l) DPKV mounted on the right in the direction of travel (transmission side), next to the speed sensor. Access to it is blocked by the intake manifold, so replacement may require removing the air filter.
  • 🔧 On engines QR20DE (2.0 l) the sensor is moved closer to the front of the block, under the thermostat. Here it is easier to dismantle, but more difficult to visually identify due to the accumulation of pipes.

The photo below shows the location of the DPKV on Almera Classic N16 with engine GA16DE (bottom view, from the gearbox):

Photo of the sensor location (clickable)

The image shows a black plastic sensor housing with a connector, secured with one 10 mm bolt. There is a wiring harness running nearby that goes to the ECU. For clarity, the crankcase protection has been removed.

To quickly find the sensor, focus on the following visual markers:

  • 📍 3-pin connector (usually gray or black).
  • 📍 10mm mounting bolt (sometimes hidden under a layer of dirt).
  • 📍 Wiring, going up to the ECU (it is often tied with other harnesses).

⚠️ Attention: On some versions Almera Classic (especially with automatic transmission) the sensor may be partially covered by a pan or heat shield. In this case, to gain access you will have to dismantle the protection or use a backlit mirror.

📊 What engine is installed on your Almera Classic?
  • GA16DE (1.6 l)
  • QR20DE (2.0 l)
  • Other (specify in comments)
  • I don't know

Signs of a bad crankshaft sensor: how to distinguish it from other problems

Symptoms of DPKV failure on Nissan Almera Classic often disguised as malfunctions of the ignition system, fuel pump or even the computer. However there is characteristic features, which directly point to the sensor:

Symptom Probable Cause How to confirm communication with DPKV
The engine does not start, but the starter turns The ECU does not receive a signal about the crankshaft position Check errors with a scanner (codes P0335, P0336)
Floating idle speed Unstable sensor signal Measure the winding resistance (standard: 500–700 Ohms)
Jerks and dips during acceleration Signal skipping at high speeds Check the signal oscillogram (there should be clear pulses)
Lights up Check Engine after warming up Thermal expansion damages the sensor The error appears at temperatures above 80°C

🔎 Key Point: If the engine Almera Classic stalls exactly when it's hot, and after cooling it starts normally - with a 90% probability the crankshaft sensor is to blame. This is due to the fact that when heated, the winding resistance changes and the signal becomes too weak for the ECU.

To rule out other causes, perform a quick diagnosis:

  1. Check voltage at the sensor connector (between pins 1 and 3 there should be 5 V when the ignition is on).
  2. Measure winding resistance (norm for Almera Classic: 550–650 Ohm).
  3. Inspect flywheel ring gear for the presence of damaged teeth (they can disrupt the signal).
💡

If you don’t have a multimeter at hand, temporarily replace the sensor with a known good one (for example, from disassembly). If the symptoms disappear, the problem is in DPKV.

How to check the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera Classic with a multimeter

Diagnostics of DPKV does not require complex equipment - a conventional multimeter with a mode for measuring resistance and voltage is sufficient. Below is step by step instructions for engines GA16DE And QR20DE:

Disconnect the DPKV connector (press the latch and pull up)|

Set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (2000 ohms)|

Connect the probes to pins 1 and 2 of the sensor (winding resistance)|

Switch the multimeter to constant voltage mode (20 V)|

Turn on the ignition and measure the voltage between pins 1 and 3 (5 V supply)|

Check the integrity of the wiring from the sensor to the ECU (there are no breaks) -->

📊 Standard values for Nissan Almera Classic:

  • 🔌 Winding resistance: 550–650 Ohm (at 20°C).
  • 🔋 Supply voltage: 4.8–5.2 V (between pins 1 and 3).
  • 📶 Output signal: Pulse amplitude is at least 0.5 V (checked with an oscilloscope).

⚠️ Attention: If the winding resistance is below 500 Ohms or above 700 Ohms, the sensor is faulty. Also note connector condition: Contact oxidation or oil ingress may cause false alarms.

For more accurate diagnosis, you can use oscilloscope (or even a smartphone with an adapter ELM327). The screen should display a clear signal with voltage peaks corresponding to the passage of the flywheel teeth. If the signal blurry or intermittent - The sensor needs to be replaced.

Step-by-step replacement of the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera Classic

Replacing DPKV with Almera Classic does not require special skills, but there are several key nuancesthat will help you avoid mistakes:

  1. Preparation:
    • 🔧 Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (to avoid short circuit).
    • 🔧 Remove the air filter (on the engine GA16DE) or thermostat (on QR20DE) for ease of access.
    • 🔧 Clean the area around the sensor from dirt (use a brush and carburetor cleaner).
  2. Removing the old sensor:
    • 🔧 Disconnect the connector by pressing the latch.
    • 🔧 Unscrew the fastening bolt (10 mm wrench).
    • 🔧 Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side (do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the housing!).
  3. Installing a new sensor:
    • 🔧 Check the integrity of the sealing ring on the new sensor (replace if damaged).
    • 🔧 Install the sensor into the seat all the way (a click should be heard).
    • 🔧 Tighten the bolt to a torque of 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).
    • 🔧 Connect the connector and make sure that the lock is latched.

🔧 Important point: After replacing the sensor be sure to clear errors from the ECU memory! To do this:

  1. Connect the scanner (for example, ELM327 or Launch CReader).
  2. Select an item Clear DTC (delete error codes).
  3. Start the engine and let it idle for 5-10 minutes.

If after replacing the sensor the error P0335 appears again - check:

  • 🔌 Wiring integrity from the sensor to the ECU (wires near the exhaust manifold often fray).
  • 🔧 Gap between sensor and flywheel (should be 0.5–1.5 mm; with a larger gap the signal will be weak).
  • 🛠️ Flywheel ring gear condition (damaged teeth lead to signal failures).
💡

On a Nissan Almera Classic with an automatic transmission, after replacing the DPKV, it may be necessary to adapt the throttle valve (the "Throttle Position Learning" procedure).

Typical mistakes when diagnosing and replacing DPKV

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns or misdiagnosis. Here are the most common of them:

  1. Ignoring wiring check

    Often the culprit for unstable operation is not the sensor itself, but broken or shorted wires between the DPKV and the ECU. For example, on Almera Classic the harness runs next to the exhaust manifold, where the insulation melts due to high temperature.

    How to check the wiring?

    Disconnect the connector from the ECU and measure the resistance of each wire from the sensor to the unit. The resistance should be close to 0 Ohm (no open).

  2. Installing a non-original sensor

    Cheap analogues (for example, from NoName-manufacturers) often have inappropriate resistance or magnetic induction parameters. This leads to false alarms or unstable engine operation.

    🔹 Recommended items:

    • 23731-4M500 (Nissan original for GA16DE).
    • 23731-AL50A (original for QR20DE).
    • BOSCH 0 261 210 115 (high-quality analogue).

  • Incorrect gap between sensor and flywheel

    If the sensor is installed skewed or the gap exceeds 1.5 mm, the signal will be weak and the ECU will not be able to correctly determine the position of the crankshaft. This leads to failures during acceleration or startup failure.

    • ⚠️ Attention: On some Almera Classic After replacing the DPKV an error appears P0325 (knock sensor circuit malfunction). This is due to the fact that the connectors of both sensors are located next to each other, and it is easy to confuse them! Always check the connection diagram.

    Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera Classic

    Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

    No. The crankshaft sensor is a critical element of the engine management system. If it fails, the ECU cannot determine the position of the pistons and the moment of spark/fuel supply. Engine either won't start at all, or will work with severe interruptions, which will lead to additional breakdowns (for example, the catalyst due to incomplete combustion of fuel).

    Which crankshaft sensor is suitable for Almera Classic N16?

    For Nissan Almera Classic N16 (2006–2012) the following sensors are suitable:

    • Original: 23731-4M500 (for GA16DE) or 23731-AL50A (for QR20DE).
    • Analogues: BOSCH 0 261 210 115, ERA 550433, FEBI 27386.

    🔹 Important: Sensors for GA16DE And QR20DE not interchangeable due to different body lengths!

    Why doesn't P0335 go away after replacing the sensor?

    There are several reasons:

    1. Faulty wiring between the sensor and the ECU (check for open or short circuit).
    2. Damaged flywheel ring gear (inspect through the inspection window in the clutch housing).
    3. The sensor is installed incorrectly (check the gap and secure fastening).
    4. Defective ECU (rarely, but it happens - diagnostics are required at a service station).

    🔹 Advice: Try temporarily connecting another ECU (for example, from disassembly) - if the error disappears, the problem is in the control unit.

    Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

    Cleaning is possible, but not always effective. If the problem is related to oxidation of contacts or contamination of the housing, you can:

    1. Clean connector contacts alcohol solution.
    2. Remove metal shavings from the end of the sensor (use soft brush).
    3. Blow out the seat compressed air.

    ❌ Doesn't help cleaning if:

    • Damaged sensor winding (resistance is outside the norm).
    • Demagnetized core (the signal is weak or absent).
    • Cracked plastic base (moisture gets inside).

    Where to buy an original crankshaft sensor for Almera Classic?

    Original sensors Nissan can be purchased:

    • 🛒 Official dealers (original guarantee, but high price).
    • 🛒 Online stores:
      • Exist.ru (article 23731-4M500).
      • Autodoc.ru (there are analogues with good reviews).
      • Emex.ru (fast delivery within the Russian Federation).
    • 🛒 Showdown (cheaper, but there is a risk of running into a faulty sensor).

    🔹 Advice: Check before purchasing article number with data on the old sensor (markings are stamped on the body).