Where is the crankshaft sensor located on Nissan Qashqai: search, check and replacement

The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the most important sensors in the engine management system. Nissan Qashqai. Its malfunction leads to malfunctions of the engine: from unstable idling to complete failure to start. Owners Kashkaev The first (J10) and second (J11) generations are often faced with the need to find this sensor for diagnosis or replacement, but its location is not always obvious - especially on engines with a turbine or a complex layout of attachments.

In this article we will look in detail at where exactly the DPKV is installed on different modifications Nissan Qashqai (including petrol HR16DE, MR20DE and diesel M9R/K9K), we will provide visual guidelines for a quick search, and also tell you how to distinguish it from other sensors. In addition, you will learn what tools are needed for dismantling and how to avoid common mistakes when working with this unit.

Design and principle of operation of the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Qashqai

DPKV on Nissan Qashqai - this is inductive sensor, which reads the signal from the ring gear mounted on the crankshaft. Structurally, it consists of:

• 🧲 Permanent magnet (creates a magnetic field)
• 🔄 Windings (generates an impulse when a crown tooth passes)
• 📶 Housings with a connector (protects from moisture and mechanical damage)

When the ring tooth passes the sensor, the magnetic field changes and an electrical impulse occurs in the winding. These impulses enter Engine ECU, which, based on them, determines the crankshaft position, rotation speed and synchronizes the operation of the fuel injectors and ignition system. On Qashqai with diesel engines (M9R, K9K) DPKV also participates in the management injection pump (high pressure fuel pump).

Features of the sensors Nissan — their high sensitivity to the gap between the sensor and the crown. The optimal distance is 0.5–1.2 mm (exceeding this value leads to errors P0335 or P0336). When replacing a sensor, it is important not only to install it correctly, but also to make sure that there are no metal shavings or dirt on the ring - it can distort the signal.

Location of the crankshaft sensor on gasoline Qashqai (HR16DE, MR20DE)

On petrol versions Nissan Qashqai (J10 and J11) DPKV is located on the cylinder block, next to the flywheel. The exact location depends on the engine type:

For HR16DE (1.6 l):

• 🔧 The sensor is located right (in the direction of travel) from the cylinder block, just above the oil pan.
• 📍 Landmark: next to the starter mounting point, under the intake manifold.
• 🔌 The connector is directed towards the front bumper.

For MR20DE (2.0 l):

• 🔧 Installed on back of the block, closer to the gearbox.
• 📍 You need to look under the thermostat, next to the speed sensor.
• 🔌 The connector may be hidden by the wiring harness - it can be seen from the battery side.

The sensor is mounted on both motors with one bolt (usually 10 mm) and has a distinctive black plastic body with a metal core. To see it you will need to remove it protective cover (if installed) and move the wiring harnesses aside. On Qashqai with automatic transmission, access may be difficult due to the torque converter - in this case it is better to use mirror with telescopic handle.

How to distinguish DPKV from camshaft sensor?

The camshaft sensor (CAS) on the Qashqai is located on the cylinder head (front or rear, depending on the engine) and has a different connector (usually white or gray). DPKV is always black and is located on the block, not on the cylinder head.

Where to look for DPKV on diesel Qashqai (M9R, K9K)

On diesel versions Nissan Qashqai The crankshaft sensor is installed differently than on gasoline ones. This is due to the design of the diesel engine, where the crankshaft crown is often integrated into the flywheel or located closer to the gearbox.

For M9R (2.0 diesel):

• 🔧 The sensor is located on the back of the block, under the turbine.
• 📍 Landmark: next to the gearbox mounting location, below the speed sensor.
• 🔌 The connector is directed upward and can be covered with a heat shield.

For K9K (1.5 diesel):

• 🔧 Installed on right side of the block (in the direction of travel), next to the generator.
• 📍 You need to look under the fuel filter, next to the engine support mount.
• 🔌 The connector is black, often covered with corrugated wire harness.

On diesel Qashqai access to the DPKV is complicated by attachments. For example, on M9R may need to be removed heat shield or move the intercooler pipes to the side. On K9K the sensor partially covers the generator bracket - you will have to unscrew it (12 mm bolts).

⚠️ Attention: On diesel Qashqais after 2014, the crankshaft sensor can be combined with a speed sensor in one connector. Before replacing, check the connection diagram using the VIN code!

Step-by-step instructions for removing and replacing the sensor

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Qashqai does not require special skills, but it is important to follow the sequence of actions and use the right tools. You will need:

• 🔧 10 mm socket wrench or socket
• 🔨 Flat blade screwdriver (for removing the connector lock)
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant
• 📏 Gap gauge (optional)

Work order:

1. Disable negative battery terminal (to avoid short circuit).
2. Find the sensor according to the diagram above and clean it of dirt (use compressed air or a soft brush).
3. Disconnect the connector by pressing the latch (on some models you will need to pry it off with a screwdriver).
4. Unscrew the mounting bolt and carefully remove the sensor. Don't pull the wires!
5. Before installing a new sensor, check the gap between its core and the rim (there should be 0.5–1.2 mm).
6. Install a new sensor, tighten the bolt (tightening torque - 8–10 Nm) and connect the connector.

After replacement be sure to clear errors to the ECU using a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431 or ELM327). If the error P0335 (“DPKV circuit malfunction”) remains, check:

• Integrity of the wiring (wires of the connector often fray).
• Keep the crankshaft ring clean (metal shavings can block the signal).
• Correct installation (the sensor should “look” at the crown, and not to the side).

Signs of DPKV malfunction and diagnostics

Faulty crankshaft sensor Nissan Qashqai manifests itself with the following symptoms:

Sign	Possible reason	Actions
Engine won't start	There is no signal from DPKV	Check the sensor circuit with a multimeter
Floating idle speed	Unstable signal (dirty or damaged)	Clean the sensor, check the gap
Loss of power, jerking during acceleration	Signal loss due to damaged winding	Replace the sensor, check the crown
Check Engine with errors P0335, P0336	Open circuit or incorrect signal	Scanner diagnostics + wiring check

To diagnose DPCV on Qashqai can be used multimeter:

1. Switch the device to resistance measurement mode (ohmmeter).
2. Connect the probes to the sensor terminals (polarity is not important).
3. Normal winding resistance: 500–700 Ohm (for gasoline engines) or 800–1000 Ohm (for diesel engines).

If the resistance approaches zero or infinity, the sensor is faulty. Also check inductance (for this you need an LCR meter): normal value - 200–400 mH. If there are no instruments, you can check the sensor “by eye”: inspect it for cracks, corrosion or traces of oil (this indicates damage to the o-ring).

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with DPKV on Nissan Qashqai. Here are the most common ones:

⚠️ Attention: Never use metal objects (screwdrivers, pliers) to remove the sensor - this may damage its core or crankshaft rim. If the sensor is stuck, treat it WD-40 and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

Typical mistakes:

• 🔧 Incorrect clearance. Installing a sensor without checking the distance to the crown leads to errors P0335 or P0336. Always use a dipstick!
• 🔌 Damage to the connector. When the wire is disconnected, the latch often breaks, resulting in unreliable contact.
• 🛠️ Using a non-original sensor. Cheap analogues (for example, from Febi or Meat & Doria) may give an incorrect signal. Optimal brands: Nissan (original), Bosch, Denso.
• 🔄 Unreset ECU errors. After replacing the sensor, be sure to clear errors with a scanner, otherwise the ECU will operate in emergency mode.

Another common problem is ingress of metal shavings onto the sensor core or crown. This occurs due to wear on the crankshaft or flywheel bearings. If after replacing the DPKV the error returns, check:

• Condition crankshaft oil seal (oil leakage may contaminate the sensor).
• Integrity flywheel boot (on diesel Qashqai).
• Absence of crankshaft play (shake it by hand by the pulley - play of more than 0.5 mm is unacceptable).

Cost of the sensor and where is the best place to buy

DPKV price for Nissan Qashqai depends on the engine type and manufacturer brand. Below is a comparison table:

Engine	Original (Nissan)	Bosch/Denso	Budget analogues
HR16DE (1.6)	2 500–3 200 ₽	1 800–2 300 ₽	800–1 200 ₽
MR20DE (2.0)	3 000–3 800 ₽	2 000–2 600 ₽	1 000–1 500 ₽
M9R (2.0 diesel)	4 500–5 500 ₽	3 200–4 000 ₽	1 500–2 200 ₽
K9K (1.5 diesel)	3 800–4 500 ₽	2 800–3 500 ₽	1 200–1 800 ₽

Where to buy:

• 🏪 Official Nissan dealers. Original guarantee, but the price is higher than the market.
• 🛒 Online stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc, Kolesa-Darom (convenient to compare prices).
• 🔧 Car disassembly. A used sensor will cost 2–3 times less, but the risk of purchasing a faulty unit is high.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to article number. For Qashqai The following numbers are suitable:

• 23731-4M500 (HR16DE, MR20DE)
• 23731-EA20A (M9R)
• 23731-JK00A (K9K)

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about DPKV on Nissan Qashqai

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. DPKV is a critical element of the engine management system. If it fails, the engine will either not start or will work intermittently, which can lead to damage to the catalyst or overheating (due to improper operation of the fuel system).

How to check DPKV without a multimeter?

Visually inspect the sensor for cracks, corrosion or oil leaks. You can also temporarily install a known-good sensor (for example, from disassembly) and check whether the error has disappeared. If the symptoms persist, the problem is in the wiring or the ECU.

Why does error P0335 not disappear after replacing the DPKV?

Possible reasons:

• The wiring between the sensor and the ECU is damaged.
• The ECU (control unit) itself is faulty.
• The crankshaft ring gear is damaged or dirty.
• The new sensor is defective (check its resistance).

It is recommended to carry out full diagnostics using a scanner that supports real-time viewing of parameters (for example, Launch CReader).

Do I need to reset adaptations after replacing the DPKV?

On petrol Qashqai (HR16DE, MR20DE) adaptations are reset automatically after errors are reset. On diesel engines (M9R, K9K) it may be necessary manual reset of fuel injection pump adaptations through diagnostic equipment (for example, Delphi DS150E).

Is it possible to clean the DPKV and how to do it?

Yes, the sensor can be cleaned of dirt and oil. Use:

• A lint-free cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
• Compressed air to remove dust from the connector.
• WD-40 to remove corrosion from contacts.

Do not use acetone or gasoline - they can damage the plastic case! After cleaning, check the sensor resistance.