Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Almera N16: photo, diagram and replacement details

The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most critical elements of the engine management system. Nissan Almera N16. Its failure leads to a complete stop of the engine or unstable operation, and diagnostics are often complicated by the fact that car owners simply do not know where to look for this sensor on 1.5 liter QG15DE or 1.8 liter QG18DE. This article contains the exact location coordinates, photos indicating the fastenings, as well as unique signs according to which DPKV on Almera N16 differs from similar sensors on other models Nissan.

We will analyze not only the physical location, but also typical errors when searching (for example, confusing the DPKV with the camshaft sensor), and also provide a checklist for checking functionality. If you encounter an error P0335 or the engine stalls for no apparent reason - this instruction will help you save time and avoid unnecessary expenses on diagnostics.

Design and operating principle of DPKV on Almera N16

crankshaft sensor Nissan Almera N16 - this is inductive sensor, which reads pulses from the ring gear on the flywheel or crankshaft pulley. Unlike Hall sensors used in some modern cars, a simple and reliable design is used here:

• 🔄 Core made of magnetic material that reacts to the metal teeth of the crown.
• 🧲 Inductor, generating a signal when the magnetic field changes.
• 🔌 Two-pin connector (unlike three-pin sensors on Nissan X-Trail or Qashqai).
• 🛠️ Heat-resistant plastic housing, withstands temperatures up to +150°C.

The signal from the DPKV enters Engine ECU (brains), which calculates on its basis:

• ⏱️ Moment of fuel injection.
• ⚡ Ignition timing.
• 🔄 Valve timing (paired with camshaft sensor).

Feature Almera N16: sensor works with crown with 60 teeth (of which 2 were missed for synchronization), whereas on Nissan Primera P12 the same generation uses a 36-tooth ring. This is important to consider when selecting analogues!

The exact location of the crankshaft sensor: photo and diagram

On Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006) crankshaft sensor located on the cylinder block on the gearbox side, next to the flywheel. Specific landmarks:

• 📍 Height: Approximately at the center line of the block, just below the starter mounting point.
• 🔧 Fastening: one 10mm bolt (head or wrench).
• 🔌 Connector: black or gray plastic connector with a lock, directed towards the interior.

Visually, it is easy to confuse it with other sensors. To avoid mistakes, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Long wire (about 30–40 cm) going to the wiring harness near the box.
• 🧲 Metal coresticking out of the housing (the camshaft sensor does not have one).
• 📏 Flywheel distance: there must be a gap between the end of the sensor and the ring gear 0.5–1.5 mm.

Below is a layout diagram (view from the checkpoint):

Landmark	Distance to DPKV	Note
Starter	~15 cm to the left	The sensor is located below the level
Camshaft sensor	~30 cm to the right and above	Has a three-pin connector
Oil filter	~20 cm to the right	DPKV closer to the checkpoint
Oil level dipstick	~25 cm forward	The sensor is located deeper in the niche

Important! On models with automatic transmission, access to the sensor may be difficult due to the box tray. In this case, you will have to remove the protection or use head extension.

What does the sensor look like in the photo?

On the original sensor Nissan (article 23731-4M000 or 23731-4M005) is marked “CRANK” or “CKP”, as well as the manufacturer’s logo. The case is matte black, without cracks. Counterfeits often have a glossy surface and unclear engraving.

Signs of DPKV malfunction: when is it time to check

Crankshaft sensor failure Almera N16 appears clearly and unambiguously. Unlike problems with the oxygen sensor or mass air flow sensor, here the symptoms are critical:

• ❌ Engine won't start (the starter turns, but there is no spark or injection).
• ⚡ Misfires at idle or under load (error P0300).
• 📉 Floating speed (tachometer needle twitches or drops to zero).
• 🚗 Jerks during acceleration, as if there was a “cut-off” at 3000-4000 rpm.
• 🔧 Error P0335 (“Crankshaft position sensor circuit”) on diagnostics.

However, these same symptoms may indicate:

• 🔋 Discharged battery or oxidized terminals.
• 🔌 Damaged wiring from DPKV to ECU.
• 🛢️ Dirty flywheel gear (magnetic chips, dirt).

How to distinguish a faulty DPKV from other problems? Take the test:

1. Disconnect the sensor connector and measure the resistance between the contacts: it should be 500–700 Ohm.
2. Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on: +12V on one contact, 0V - on the other.
3. Inspect the ring gear through the inspection window in the clutch housing (on a manual transmission).

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and replace DPKV

Replacing the crankshaft sensor with Almera N16 takes no more than 20 minutes, but requires care. You will need:

• 🔧 10 mm socket or wrench.
• 🧲 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for connector lock).li>
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubricant (if the bolt is soured).
• 📏 Feeler gauge for checking the gap (optional).

Sequence of actions:

⚠️ Attention! When installing a new sensor do not use sealant on the o-ring - this can lead to sensor displacement and false signals. Also avoid metal filings at the end of the core: they distort the magnetic field.

After replacement:

1. Reset errors using a diagnostic scanner or by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes.
2. Check engine operation at idle and under load.
3. If the error P0335 remains - check the wiring from the sensor to the ECU (often frays near the box).

Which crankshaft sensor to choose: original vs analogues

Original sensor from Nissan has articles:

• 23731-4M000 (for QG15DE And QG18DE until 2003).
• 23731-4M005 (for models after 2003).

Original cost - 2500–3500 rub.. However, there are proven analogues:

Brand	Article	Price, rub.	Note
Bosch	0 261 210 115	1800–2200	Best price/quality ratio
Blue Print	ADG02610	1500–1900	Counterfeits are common
Febi	21910	2000–2400	Good compatibility with ECU Nissan
Valeo	584033	2300–2700	Original supplier for Renault-Nissan

⚠️ Attention! When purchasing an analogue, be sure to check:

• 📏 Core length (should be 25–27 mm).
• 🔌 Connector type (on Almera N16 - rectangular, not round!).
• 🧲 Presence of magnetic shield (protects against interference).

Avoid sensors that are unlabeled or labeled “Made in China” without a brand logo. Fakes often fail after 10–15 thousand km.

Frequent mistakes when diagnosing and replacing DPKV

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when working with the crankshaft sensor on Almera N16. Here are the most common:

1. DPKV is confused with the camshaft sensor. The latter is located higher, on the block head, and has three wires in the connector.
2. Don't check the gap. The optimal distance to the crown is 0.5–1.5 mm. If the gap is larger, the signal will be weak; if less, the sensor may cling to the crown.
3. Ignore wiring condition. Oxidation or break in the wire between the DPKV and the ECU (contact 25 on the ECU connector) leads to the same symptoms as a faulty sensor.
4. ECU adaptations are not reset. After replacing the sensor, it is necessary to reset the long-term fuel trims (through diagnostics or by disconnecting the battery).

Another typical problem is O-ring damage during installation. If it is not replaced, oil or dirt will enter the sensor, which will lead to repeated failure. The original ring has an article number 23731-4M001 and costs about 200 rub.

How to avoid mistakes? Follow a simple rule: “If after replacing the DPKV the problem remains, look for the reason in the wiring or the computer”. In 30% of cases, it is not the sensor itself that is to blame, but a broken ground or oxidation of the contacts in the connector.

Video instructions and additional materials

For clarity, we recommend watching a video on replacing the DPKV with Nissan Almera N16:

📹 Replacing the crankshaft sensor on Almera N16 (QG15DE) — step-by-step analysis with comments.

📄 Wiring diagram Almera N16 (PDF) — location of ECU connectors and DPKV wiring.

If you need photo reports for replacement, look for topics on the forums:

• 🔧 Almera-Club.ru (section “Engine”).
• 🚗 Nissan-Club.ru (subsection “Almera N16”).

For diagnostics without a scanner you can use multimeter in millivoltmeter mode:

1. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals.
2. Crank the crankshaft quickly with the starter.
3. A working DPKV will show 100–300 mV alternating voltage.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about DPKV on Almera N16

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. The engine will either not start or will operate with critical misfires, which will lead to catalyst overheating or water hammer (if the fuel does not burn in the cylinders).

What clearance should there be between the DPKV and the flywheel?

Optimal clearance - 0.5–1.5 mm. If it is larger, the signal weakens; if less, there is a risk of mechanical contact. Checked plastic probe (metal may become magnetized).

What is the difference between DPKV on Almera N16 1.5 and 1.8?

Structurally, the sensors are identical (articles are interchangeable), but QG18DE An extended wiring harness may be used. The main thing is to check core length (should be 25–27 mm).

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

Cleaning is only possible from the outside (from oil, dirt) using isopropyl alcohol. The core and coil cannot be cleaned - this will disrupt the magnetic properties. If the sensor is “buggy”, it only needs to be replaced.

Where is the ECU to which the DPKV is connected?

The electronic control unit is located under the glove compartment, behind the plastic panel. The DPKV connector is connected to the contacts 24 (+) And 25 (signal) on the ECU block.