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

Crankshaft position sensor (CPS) on Nissan Almera - A critical element of the engine management system. Its malfunction leads to malfunctions of the engine: from unstable idling to complete failure to start. However, many owners are faced with a problem: where exactly to look for this sensor on different generations Almera (N16, G15, Tino)?

In this article you will find exact layout diagrams of DPKV with reference to the years of manufacture, photos of real nodes under the hood, as well as step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and replacement. We will look at how to distinguish an original sensor from a fake, what errors the ECU gives when it breaks, and why even a new DPKV may not solve the problem with starting the engine.

Location of the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera: diagram and photo

On all generations Nissan Almera (including N16, G15 And Tino) the crankshaft sensor is installed in the same place - on the cylinder block on the flywheel side. More specifically:

• 🔧 On engines QG15DE (1.5 l) and QG18DE (1.8 L) sensor is located to the right of the oil filter, if you look in the direction of travel of the car.
• 📍 On Almera Classic (N16) with motor HR16DE The DPKV is shifted closer to the gearbox, but remains in the flywheel area.
• 🔍 Visually it is easy to identify by black plastic case with a connector and a single mounting bolt (usually 10 mm).

To find the sensor faster, focus on flywheel ring gear — DPKV is located opposite it at a distance 0.5–1.2 mm (this is a critical gap that must not be violated during installation!). Below is the diagram for Almera N16:

Engine model	DPKV location	Search guide
QG15DE (1.5 l)	Cylinder block, right of oil filter	Opposite the 20th tooth of the flywheel ring
QG18DE (1.8 l)	Similar to QG15DE, but shifted 3 cm closer to the gearbox	Near the speed sensor (DSA)
HR16DE (1.6 l, N16)	Below the thermostat, at the junction of the block and the gearbox	Under the timing belt guard

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Tino with motor QR20DE The crankshaft sensor may be hidden under metal protection. To access it you will need to remove engine mount bracket (2 bolts 14 mm).

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera

DPKV on Almera rarely fails suddenly - usually the malfunction appears gradually. Here key symptoms, which indicate problems with the sensor:

• ⚡ Engine won't start, but the starter turns. In this case, the dashboard may light up Check Engine.
• 🔄 Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm) for no apparent reason.
• 🚗 Jerks during acceleration, especially at speeds of 60–90 km/h, as if traction “disappears”.
• 💥 Detonation when you press the gas sharply (“your fingers knock”).
• 🔋 Spontaneous engine shutdown while driving (usually Almera G15 with mileage >150 thousand km).

If you observe at least 2-3 signs from the list, First of all, check the DPKV. But don’t rush to change it: similar symptoms give rise to malfunctions ignition coils, Mass air flow sensor or even sensor harness wiring.

⚠️ Attention: On Almera N16 with HR16DE a faulty DPKV can cause immobilizer false alarm. In this case, the dashboard lights up key, and the engine is blocked 3–5 seconds after starting.

How to check the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera: 3 ways

Diagnosis of DPCV on Almera can be carried out without specialized equipment. Here three reliable methods, sorted by difficulty:

1. Check with a multimeter (resistance measurement)

Suitable for all models Almera with any type of engine.

• 🔌 Disconnect the sensor connector (press the lock and pull up).
• 📊 Switch the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (range 200–2000 Ohms).
• 🔍 Connect the probes to the sensor terminals (polarity is not important).

Normal values:

• For Almera N16/G15 with QG15DE/QG18DE: 550–750 Ohm.
• For Almera Classic with HR16DE: 800–900 Ohm.

If resistance 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break), the sensor is faulty.

2. Check with an oscilloscope (precise diagnostics)

This method requires USB oscilloscope (For example, Hantek) or a computer with a program Oscilloscope. Connect to the sensor signal wire (usually green or white) and start the engine. Healthy DPKV will show an even sinusoid with amplitude 0.3–1.0 V.

3. Check “for replacement” (express method)

If you have it on hand known working sensor (for example, from disassembly), temporarily install it instead of the original one. If the symptoms disappear, the problem is CPPV. This method is the fastest, but requires a spare sensor.

Clean the installation site from dirt (use WD-40)

Check the power circuit (12V at the connector)

Take a photo of the sensor location before removal.

Prepare a torque wrench (tightening torque 8–10 Nm)

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Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera

Replacing DPKV with Almera takes no more than 20 minutes, but requires care. The main rule: Do not allow metal shavings or dirt to get into the sensor well - this may damage the flywheel!

Required tools:

• 🔧 10 mm socket (for fastening bolt).
• 🔨 Extension cord or ratchet.
• 🧲 Magnetic grip (so as not to drop the bolt into the pan).
• 🧴 WD-40 or Liqui Moly for cleaning contacts.
• 📏 Feeler gauge 0.5 mm (to check the gap).

Procedure:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal (required! this will reset the ECU errors).

2. Remove protective cover (if any) and find the sensor according to the diagram from the first section.

3. Disconnect the connector by pressing the latch. Don't pull the wires!

4. Unscrew the fastening bolt (it may stick - use WD-40).

5. Carefully remove the sensor. If it "sits" tightly, rock it slightly from side to side.

6. Clean the well from dirt lint-free cloth.

7. Install the new sensor, maintaining the gap 0.5–1.2 mm (checked with a dipstick).

8. Tighten the bolt to torque 8–10 Nm (do not overtighten!).

9. Connect the battery connector and terminal.

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Tino after replacing the DPKV it may be necessary reset throttle adaptations. To do this:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Press the gas pedal all the way and hold for 10 seconds.
3. Release the pedal, turn off the ignition.

What happens if the DPKV is installed incorrectly?

If the sensor is installed with a gap violation (more than 1.5 mm), the ECU will receive an incorrect signal. This will lead to:

- Start the engine only “hot”

- Loss of power above 3000 rpm

- Permanent error P0335 (DPKV circuit), even if the sensor is working.

ECU errors related to the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera

If the DPKV or its circuit malfunctions ECU Nissan Almera records specific error codes. They can be counted through OBD-II scanner or self-diagnosis method (for Almera N16/G15):

• 🔌 P0335 — Malfunction of the crankshaft position sensor circuit (the most common code).
• 🔄 P0336 — The range/performance of the DPKV signal is outside the norm.
• ⚡ P0337 — Low sensor signal level (may indicate an open or short circuit).
• 💥 P0338 — High signal level (often caused by a short to +12V).
• 🔋 P0325 — Open circuit of the knock sensor (may indirectly indicate problems with the DPKV).

On Almera Classic (N16) with HR16DE error P0335 does not always mean the sensor is faulty. In 30% of cases the problem lies in:

• 🔌 Oxidation of connector contacts (clean Liqui Moly Kontakt 60).
• 🔋 Voltage drop in the power circuit (check fuse F10 in the mounting block).
• 📡 Interference from high-voltage wires (check the screen of the DPKV wire).

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the DPKV there is an error P0335 remains, check flywheel ring gear. On Almera with a mileage of >200 thousand km, the teeth often wear out or break, which leads to false alarms of the sensor.

Which crankshaft sensor to choose for Nissan Almera: original vs analogues

Original DPKV for Nissan Almera has an article number 23731-4M000 (for QG15DE/QG18DE) or 23731-9M000 (for HR16DE). However, its price in official dealers reaches 3000–4500 ₽, while high-quality analogues cost 2–3 times cheaper.

Manufacturer	Article	Price, ₽	Notes
Nissan (original)	23731-4M000	3500–4500	12 months warranty, perfect compatibility
Bosch	0 261 210 115	1200–1500	The best analogue, suitable for all models Almera
Febi Bilstein	23731	900–1100	Budget option, possible problems with tightness
ERA	550457	800–1000	Often counterfeited - buy only from official distributors

🔍 How to distinguish an original from a fake:

• 🏷️ On the original sensor Nissan There is hologram with serial number.
• 🔧 The body must be matte black (counterfeits often have glossy plastic).
• 📦 Included metal washer (analogs may not have it).

⚠️ Attention: On Almera G15 with QG15DE sensors from Nissan Primera or Micra, even if visually they are identical! The difference is signal calibration, which will lead to an error P0336.

Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Nissan Almera

Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

No. The crankshaft sensor is the only sensor without which ECU Nissan Almera will not be able to synchronize injection and ignition. The engine will either not start or will run rough critical outages, which will lead to:

• 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (risk of fire!).
• 💥 Detonation and damage to the piston group.
• 🔋 Battery discharge due to multiple starting attempts.

If the sensor fails on the way, the only way out is tow truck or replacement on site (if there is a spare DPKV).

How to reset P0335 after replacing the sensor?

On Almera N16/G15 the error is reset automatically after:

1. Disconnect the battery terminal for 10–15 minutes.
2. Three successful engine starts in a row.

If the error remains, check:

• 🔌 The connector is connected correctly (the contacts should “click”).
• 📶 The gap between the sensor and the flywheel (must be 0.5–1.2 mm).
• 🔧 The integrity of the flywheel crown tooth (if damaged, the flywheel must be replaced).

Why doesn't a new crankshaft sensor solve the problem?

In 40% of cases, the problem lies not in the DPKV itself, but in:

• 🔌 Wiring: open or short blue-yellow wires (power) or green (signal).
• 🔋 ECU: oxidation of contacts in the control unit connector (clean contact lubricant).
• 📡 Interference: If high-voltage wires are laid near the DPKV wire, the signal may be distorted.
• 🔧 Mechanics: a crack in the flywheel or chips on the ring teeth.

Check oscillogram signal - if the sinusoid is “ragged” or the amplitude is lower 0.3 V, the problem is not with the sensor.

What kind of oil should I fill in after replacing the DPKV?

Replacing the crankshaft sensor does not require an oil change. However, if you were filming oil filter or pallet (for example, to check the flywheel), add oil to the level MAX on the dipstick.

For Nissan Almera recommended oils:

• Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30 (original, article KE900-90042).
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (for engines with mileage >100 thousand km).
• Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30 (universal for all generations Almera).

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

Cleaning the DPKV useless in 99% of cases. The sensor is sealed inductor, and its malfunction is associated with:

• 🔌 Winding break (not restored).
• 🧲 Demagnetization of the core (irreversible).
• 💧 Contact corrosion (can be cleaned, but temporarily).

If the sensor is dirty on the outside, clean it lint-free cloth, soaked in isopropyl alcohol. But if it already produces errors, just replace it.