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

Nissan Almera G15 (2012–2018) with engine HR16DE — a reliable car, but even it is not immune to problems with the camshaft position sensor (CPS). This small sensor is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the injection and ignition systems, and its malfunction leads to loss of power, bad launch and even stopping the engine.

Owners Almera G15 often encounter errors P0340 (“Camshaft sensor circuit malfunction”) or P0345 (“Incorrect signal from camshaft sensor “A”).” In 70% of cases, the sensor itself is to blame, but the problem may lie in the wiring or mechanical damage. In this article we will look at how check the DPRV with a multimeterwhere it is located HR16DE, and how to replace it without contacting service.

Where is the camshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera G15?

On the engine HR16DE (1.6L) camshaft sensor installed on cylinder head from the intake camshaft. Exact location:

• 🔧 Top of the engine, next to the valve cover.
• 🔌 Suits him three-pin connector (gray or black).
• 📍 Located between ignition coils And intake manifold.

To get to the sensor, just remove decorative engine cover (4 bolts on “10”) and disconnect the connector. On some modifications Almera G15 access may be difficult due to the ventilation system pipes - they will have to be temporarily dismantled.

Photo of sensor location on HR16DE

On most Nissan Almera G15 The camshaft sensor is mounted with one bolt at “10” and is marked 23731-4M000 or 23731-4M005 (original). Analogues: Hitachi CPS-003, Bosch 0 261 210 115.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Camshaft Sensor

Symptoms of DPRV failure Almera G15 often confused with malfunctions Mass air flow sensor, ignition coils or fuel pump. However, there are specific “bells” that directly point to the phase sensor:

• ⚠️ Engine stalls at idle or it works unstably (speeds fluctuate).
• 🚗 Dips during acceleration (especially at speeds of 2000–3000 rpm).
• 🔥 Check Engine lights up 5–10 minutes after startup.
• 🔄 The engine does not switch to gas (works only on gasoline if HBO is installed).
• 🛑 Car won't start when hot, but starts normally when cold.

Critical point: if the camshaft sensor is completely out of order, Nissan Almera G15 can go into emergency mode with a fixed ignition timing (10–12°), which leads to an increase in fuel consumption by 15–20%.

Error codes associated with DPRV on Almera G15

Diagnostic scanner (eg ELM327 or Launch CReader) if the camshaft sensor is faulty, it will show one of the following codes:

Error code	Description	Probable Cause
P0340	Camshaft sensor circuit malfunction	Broken wiring, oxidation of contacts, malfunction of the sensor itself
P0341	Sensor signal out of acceptable limits	Mechanical damage to the sensor or timing marks shift
P0345	Incorrect signal from camshaft sensor “A”	Camshaft gear wear or sensor failure
P0335	Crankshaft sensor circuit malfunction (secondary error)	Problems with DPKV or sensor synchronization

⚠️ Attention: if on Almera G15 errors are flashing at the same time P0340 And P0335, the problem may be displacement of timing marks (for example, after replacing the belt). In this case, a valve timing check is required!

How to check the camshaft sensor with a multimeter?

To diagnose DPRV on Nissan Almera G15 you will need a multimeter with measuring mode resistance And voltage. Check procedure:

1. Remove the sensor (unscrew the bolt to “10” and remove it from the seat).
2. Check resistance between contacts 1–2 And 1–3:
   • 🔋 Norm for HR16DE: 550–750 Ohm.
   • 🚫 If resistance 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break) - the sensor is faulty.
3. Check voltage on the connector (with the ignition on):
   • 🔌 Between 1 (“+”) and 3 (“mass”) should be 12 V.
   • 🔌 Between 1 And 2 (signal wire) - 0.5–1 V at idle.

If the parameters do not correspond to the norm, but the wiring is intact, the sensor must be replaced. Please note: on Almera G15 after 2015, sensors with a different resistance range can be installed (up to 900 Ohm), so check the technical documentation!

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the camshaft sensor

Replacing the DPRV with Nissan Almera G15 takes no more than 30 minutes. You will need:

• 🔧 Head “10” (for fastening bolt).
• 🔌 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the connector).
• 🧴 Rags and contact cleaner (CRC or WD-40).

Algorithm of actions:

1. Disable negative battery terminal (required!).
2. Remove decorative engine cover.
3. Disconnect sensor connectorby pressing the latch.
4. Unscrew fastening bolt and remove the sensor.
5. Clean the seat from oil and dirt.
6. Install new sensor (original or analogue) and tighten the bolt to torque 8–10 Nm.
7. Connect the connector and return the cover to its place.

⚠️ Attention: after replacing the sensor be sure to clear errors via diagnostic scanner! Otherwise Check Engine The light may remain on for another 2-3 engine starts.

The cost of the sensor and analogues for Almera G15

The price of the original camshaft sensor for Nissan Almera G15 (article 23731-4M000) in 2026:

Manufacturer	Article	Price, ₽	Notes
Nissan (original)	23731-4M000	3 500–4 200	1 year warranty, best quality
Hitachi	CPS-003	2 100–2 500	Popular analogue, suitable for 90% of cars
Bosch	0 261 210 115	2 300–2 800	High quality, but rarely found in stores
Febi	23731	1 800–2 200	Budget option, possible fakes

💡 Advice: When purchasing, check the sensor for magnetic properties — if it does not attract metal objects, there is no core inside, and such a sensor is guaranteed to be faulty.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with DPRV on Almera G15. Here are the most common:

• 🛑 Incorrect bolt tightening torque → the sensor may rotate or crack.
• 🔌 Connector damage when disconnecting → use a flat-head screwdriver, not pliers!
• 🧲 Installing the sensor without cleaning the seat → metal shavings can damage it in 1–2 months.
• 🔋 Ignoring wiring check → if the problem is in the harness, the new sensor will not last long.

How to check the wiring? Disconnect the ECU connector (located under the glove compartment) and “ring” the wires from the DPRV to the contacts 24 (signal) and 45 (“mass”) in the block. The resistance should be close to 0 ohm.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the camshaft sensor Nissan Almera G15

Is it possible to drive with a faulty camshaft sensor?

Technically possible, but not advisable. The engine will go into emergency mode with a fixed ignition timing, which will lead to:

• ⚠️ Increased fuel consumption by 1.5–2 l/100 km.
• 🚗 Loss of dynamics (the car will be “stupid” when overtaking).
• 🔥 Risk of damage to the catalyst due to incorrect fuel mixture.

We recommend replacing the sensor within 1–2 weeks after the error appears.

How to distinguish an original sensor from a fake?

Original sensor Nissan has:

• 🏷️ Holographic sticker with serial number.
• 🧲 Magnetic core (pulls the paperclip).
• 🔍 Clear markings (no blurred characters).
• 📦 Branded packaging with logo Nissan.

Counterfeits are often lighter in weight and have a low quality plastic body.

What should I do if the error remains after replacing the sensor?

Possible reasons:

1. ECU malfunction (check the voltage at the sensor connector).
2. Wiring problems (break or short circuit in the harness).
3. Timing timing mark offset (check the alignment of the marks on the crankshaft and camshaft).
4. Poor quality sensor (especially if you bought a cheap analogue).

We recommend full diagnostics with the help Launch X431 or similar scanner.

Is it possible to clean the camshaft sensor?

Cleaning is possible, but not always effective. If the sensor is contaminated with oil or metal shavings:

1. Rinse it off isopropyl alcohol or WD-40.
2. Dry with compressed air.
3. Check the resistance with a multimeter.

If the parameters do not correspond to the norm, the sensor must be replaced. Cleaning helps only 30% of the time (usually when oil gets in).