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

Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006) with engines QG16DE (1.6 l) and QG18DE (1.8 l) equipped with inductive crankshaft position sensor (CPS) - a critical element of the engine management system. Its malfunction leads to a failure to start the engine, floating speed or an error P0335 on the dashboard. Unlike camshaft or knock sensors, DPKV is Almera N16 hidden in an unobvious place, which causes difficulties for owners when diagnosing themselves.

In this article you will find exact location of the sensor with photographs and diagrams, signs of its breakdown, as well as step-by-step instructions for checking and replacing. We will look at the nuances for both engines (QG16DE And QG18DE), since their design is different. If you are faced with the problem “the car won’t start, but the starter turns,” this material will help save time and avoid mistakes during repairs.

Design and principle of operation of the crankshaft sensor on Almera N16

Crankshaft position sensor (DPKV) on Nissan Almera N16 - this is inductive sensor, which reads the signal from the ring gear mounted on the flywheel. Unlike Hall effect sensors, it does not require external power and generates alternating current as metal teeth pass its core. This signal goes to ECU, which calculates based on it:

• 🔹 Ignition timing
• 🔹 Fuel injection timing
• 🔹 Valve timing (together with camshaft sensor)
• 🔹 Engine speed

On Almera N16 used sensor with article number 23731-4M000 (original) or analogues SMP DK183, BOSCH 0 261 210 115. Its key feature is non-separable body with a permanent magnet inside. If it fails, it cannot be repaired, only replaced. Important: sensor not interchangeable with models for other engines Nissan (For example, QR25DE or GA16DE), despite the external similarity.

Signs of DPKV malfunction are often confused with problems ignition coils or fuel pump. However, there are key symptoms that directly point to the sensor:

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

On Almera N16 crankshaft sensor is located on the cylinder block on the gearbox side, next to the flywheel. The exact location depends on the engine type:

• 🔧 QG16DE (1.6 l): sensor installed under the thermostat, closer to the cabin, at a height of ~15 cm from the pallet. A wiring harness with a black connector leads to it.
• 🔧 QG18DE (1.8 l): sensor is displaced 3–4 cm to the left (in the direction of travel) relative to the analogue on a 1.6-liter engine. The wire connector is gray.

For clarity, the location diagram is presented below (view from the checkpoint):

element	QG16DE (1.6 l)	QG18DE (1.8 l)
Sensor location	Under the thermostat, next to the flywheel	To the left of the thermostat, closer to the gearbox
Connector color	Black	Gray
Harness length	~30 cm	~35 cm
Fastening	1 M6 bolt	1 M6 bolt

To get to the sensor you will need:

1. Remove air filter (unscrew the 4 cover bolts).
2. Disconnect MAF sensor connector (mass air flow sensor).
3. Remove the wiring harness running along the cylinder block.

The photo below shows the sensor on QG16DE (red arrow indicates its location):

Photo of the crankshaft sensor on Almera N16

The image shows a black sensor connector bolted to the cylinder block with an M6 bolt. Nearby is the wiring harness to the ECU. The air filter cover has been removed for clarity.

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor: how to distinguish it from other breakdowns

Faulty DPKV on Almera N16 manifests itself specifically. Unlike the camshaft sensor (DPRV), which only affects the valve timing, failure of the DPKV completely blocks engine starting or causes critical instability. Main symptoms:

• ⚠️ Engine won't start, but the starter turns. In this case, there is no spark at the candles and the injectors do not fire.
• ⚠️ Error P0335 ("Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit") on the instrument panel.
• ⚠️ Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm) without load.
• ⚠️ Detonation during acceleration due to incorrect ignition timing.
• ⚠️ Spontaneous engine stop when driving (usually at speeds of 40–60 km/h).

It is important to distinguish a malfunction of the DPKV from problems with:

• 🔌 Wiring: open or shorted in the harness from the sensor to the ECU.
• 🔋 Flywheel ring gear: chipped or worn teeth (check visually).
• 🖥️ ECU: damage to the input stage for the DPKV signal (diagnosed with an oscilloscope).

⚠️ Attention: If there are errors on the dashboard P0335 And P0340 (camshaft sensor) at the same time - check first timing belt. Its slippage or breakage leads to desynchronization of the signals of both sensors.

For an accurate diagnosis, use multimeter or oscilloscope. Verification algorithm:

1. Disconnect the sensor connector.
2. Measure the resistance between the terminals: normal - 550–750 Ohm.
3. Check the voltage at the ECU connector (with the ignition on): it should be 12 V on one of the contacts.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

Replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera N16 takes 20–30 minutes if you have the tools. You will need:

• 🔧 Key or head on 10 mm (for fastening bolt).
• 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the connector).
• 🔧 Multimeter (to check the new sensor).
• 🔧 A rag and contact cleaner (for example, WD-40).

Sequence of actions:

1. Turn off the power: Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery to avoid short circuit.

2. Remove the air filter: Unscrew the 4 cover bolts and disconnect the corrugation. This will give access to the sensor.

3. Find the sensor: refer to the diagram above. On QG16DE it is located under the thermostat, on QG18DE - to the left.

4. Disconnect the connector: Press the lock and pull the block up. Don't pull the wires!

5. Unscrew the fastening bolt: use the head on 10 mm. The bolt often sticks - if it doesn’t stick, treat it WD-40.

6. Remove the sensor: Gently pull it towards you. If it fits tightly, rock it from side to side.

7. Install a new sensor: insert it into the seat until it stops and secure with a bolt. Tightening torque - 8–10 Nm.

8. Connect the connector and reassemble everything in reverse order.

⚠️ Attention: When installing a new sensor do not use sealant on the bolt thread. This may cause particles to enter the oil passages of the cylinder block. A standard washer is sufficient.

After replacement:

• 🔄 Reset errors from the ECU (by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes or using a scanner).
• 🔑 Start the engine and check the speed stability.
• 📊 Take a test drive: accelerate to 60 km/h and make sure there are no jerks.

Common mistakes when replacing the crankshaft sensor

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with DPKV on Almera N16. Here are the most common:

• 🛑 Using a non-original sensor: cheap analogues (for example, no-name Chinese ones) often have incorrect resistance or magnetic induction, which leads to an error P0335 even on a new device.
• 🛑 Incorrect clearance: The sensor must rest against the thrust ring without distortion. If you “drown” it deeper or leave it with a gap of >1.5 mm, the signal will be weak.
• 🛑 Connector damage: When disconnecting the pad, the plastic clips often break. This results in poor contact.
• 🛑 Ignoring verification: Not everyone tests a new sensor before installation. There are cases of defects even with original parts.

How to avoid problems:

• 🔍 Buy a sensor with an article number 23731-4M000 or proven analogues (BOSCH, Denso).
• 📏 Check the gap between the sensor and the flywheel crown with a feeler gauge - it should be 1.0–1.5 mm.
• 🔌 Clean the connector contacts with alcohol before connecting.

If after replacing the sensor the error P0335 left:

1. Check wiring harness integrity from the sensor to the ECU (often grinds near the exhaust manifold).
2. Measure voltage at ECU connector (pin 24 for QG16DE, pin 26 for QG18DE).
3. Inspect flywheel ring gear for chips (removal of the gearbox is required).

Crankshaft sensor diagnostics without a scanner: 3 working methods

If you don't have a diagnostic scanner at hand (for example, ELM327), you can check the DPKV using improvised means. Here are three reliable ways:

Method 1: Check resistance with a multimeter

Connect the multimeter probes to the sensor terminals (polarity is not important). Normal resistance:

• QG16DE: 600–700 Ohm.
• QG18DE: 550–650 Ohm.

If the readings are lower 500 Ohm or higher 900 Ohm - the sensor is faulty.

Method 2: Inductance Test

To do this, you need a multimeter with an inductance measurement function (or a separate LC meter). Normal values:

• Inductance: 200–400 mH.
• Capacity: 0 (shorting the winding to the housing is not allowed).

Method 3: Check with an oscilloscope (most accurate)

Connect an oscilloscope to the sensor terminals and crank the starter. On a working DPKV you will see sinusoid with an amplitude of at least 0.5 V and frequency corresponding to the crankshaft speed. Example of an oscillogram:

An example of an oscillogram of a working DPKV

The graph shows a clear sinusoid without gaps or distortions. The signal amplitude is ~0.7 V, the frequency corresponds to ~200 rpm when cranked by the starter.

If you don't have an oscilloscope, you can use LED probe (with 9 V battery): When the starter is cranked, the LED should flash at a frequency proportional to the revolutions.

⚠️ Attention: Checking for spark (disconnecting the connector while the engine is running) for DPKV unacceptable. This may damage the transistors in the ECU.

Cost of work and spare parts: where to buy and how much replacement costs

Crankshaft sensor price for Nissan Almera N16 varies depending on manufacturer and place of purchase. Below is a table with current prices (for 2026):

Manufacturer	Article	Price, ₽	Where to buy
Original (Nissan)	23731-4M000	2 800–3 500	Official dealers, Exist.ru
BOSCH	0 261 210 115	1 800–2 300	Autodoc, Emex
Denso	550-0103	2 100–2 600	Autosphere, AUTO3N
SMP (Standard Motor Products)	DK183	1 500–1 900	eBay, Amazon
Unnamed analogue	—	800–1 200	Aliexpress, local markets

Cost of replacement work in services:

• 🔧 Official dealer: 1,500–2,500 ₽ (with diagnostics).
• 🔧 Unofficial service: 800–1 500 ₽.
• 🔧 Mobile master: 1,000–1,800 ₽ (with departure).

Buying Tips:

• 🛒 Check it out packaging: original Nissan has a hologram and serial number.
• 🛒 Compare weight: Fake sensors are often 10–15 grams lighter.
• 🛒 Buy from trusted sellers: on Exist.ru or Autodoc There is less risk of running into counterfeit goods.

If your budget is limited, the best choice is BOSCH 0 261 210 115. It is cheaper than the original, but has the same quality and is compatible with Almera N16 without modifications.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the crankshaft sensor on Almera N16

Is it possible to drive with a faulty crankshaft sensor?

No. DPKV is a critical element of the engine management system. If it malfunctions, the engine or won't start, or will work intermittently, which will lead to:

• Damage to the catalyst (due to a rich mixture).
• Engine overheating (wrong ignition angle).
• Increased fuel consumption (up to 2–3 times).

Allowed disposable launch to transport the car to the service station (no more than 5–10 km).

How to distinguish an original sensor from a fake?

Signs of the original sensor Nissan 23731-4M000:

• The series is engraved on the case 23731-4M0xx (where xx is revision).
• The plastic is matte, without burrs.
• The kit includes a copper washer (for fakes it is steel).
• Weight ~120 grams (counterfeits are 10–20% lighter).

Fakes often have:

• Blurry markings.
• Body with casting seam.
• No hologram on the packaging.

What happens if the sensor is installed incorrectly?

Errors when installing DPKV lead to:

1. Gap more than 1.5 mm: weak signal → engine stalls at idle.
2. Sensor skew: signal is distorted → error P0335.
3. Missing thrust ring: the sensor is buried in the block → winding short circuit.
4. Using sealant: entry into oil channels → blockage of the lubrication system.

In all cases it is required repeated dismantling and correct installation.

Is it possible to clean the crankshaft sensor?

No. DPKV on Almera N16 — non-removable and cannot be cleaned. Attempts to wash it with alcohol or gasoline lead to:

• Demagnetization of the core.
• Corrosion of contacts.
• Liquid entering the winding (short circuit).

The only thing that can be cleared is connector contacts (use contact cleaner in a can).

What errors are associated with the crankshaft sensor?

On Almera N16 DPKV provokes the following error codes:

• P0335 — sensor circuit malfunction.
• P0336 — signal out of acceptable limits.
• P0337 — low signal level.
• P0338 — high signal level.

Associated errors (occur due to an incorrect DPKV signal):

• P0300 - random misfires.
• P0340 — camshaft sensor error (secondary).