Error code P0335 on Nissan: what it means and how to fix a faulty crankshaft sensor

Car owners Nissan different models - from Qashqai And X-Trail to Almera And Note - sooner or later you may encounter an error P0335 on the dashboard. This code indicates a problem with crankshaft position sensor (CPS), which plays a critical role in the operation of the engine. If you ignore the signal, the consequences can range from unstable engine operation to complete failure to start.

In this article we will analyze in detail what exactly is hidden behind the error. P0335, what symptoms accompany it, and - most importantly - how to diagnose and fix the problem yourself or at minimal cost. We will pay special attention to the nuances for popular models Nissanwhere this problem occurs most often.

What does P0335 mean on Nissan?

Code P0335 stands for "Circuit Malfunction in Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A'" — a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor circuit. This sensor is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the ignition and fuel injection systems, sending signals about the position of the crankshaft to ECU (electronic control unit).

When the ECU detects a missing or incorrect signal from the DPKV, it activates an error P0335 and can put the engine into emergency mode. It is important to understand that the problem is not always related to the sensor itself - wires, connectors, or even mechanical damage may be to blame ring gear on the crankshaft.

On Nissan with engines HR16DE, MR20DE, QR25DE and others this error is often accompanied by:

• 🔥 Misfires at idle;
• 🚗 Difficulty starting engine (especially in cold weather);
• ⚡ Power loss during acceleration;
• 🛑 Spontaneous stop motor.

Reasons for error P0335

Experts identify several key reasons why Nissan may catch fire P0335. They can be roughly divided into electric And mechanical.

Electrical reasons:

• 🔌 Wiring damage from DPKV to ECU (frayed wires, oxidation of contacts);
• 🔋 Short circuit or a break in the sensor circuit;
• 🔌 Poor contact in the sensor connector (often due to corrosion or moisture);
• 💻 Computer malfunction (less common, but possible after unsuccessful chip tuning).

Mechanical reasons:

• 🛠️ Wear or damage ring gear on the crankshaft;
• 🔍 Sensor contamination metal shavings or oil;
• 🚗 Incorrect clearance between the sensor and the ring (must be 0.5–1.5 mm);
• 🔄 Malfunction of the sensor itself (natural wear and tear or manufacturing defects).

On Nissan Juke And Micra with engines HR16DE error P0335 often occurs after replacing the timing belt if the sensor has been accidentally displaced or damaged. On X-Trail T31/T32 And Qashqai J10/J11 the problem is often associated with oxidation of the contacts in the sensor connector due to moisture ingress.

P0335 Symptoms: How to Recognize the Problem

Error P0335 rarely appears “alone” - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in the behavior of the car. Here are the key signs to look out for:

Symptom	Probable Cause	What to do
Engine stalls at idle	Incorrect signal from DPKV → injection failure	Check the sensor circuit, clean the contacts
Difficult starting (especially when cold)	The ECU does not receive crankshaft position data	Diagnose sensor and ring gear
Misfires, engine tripping	Unsynchronized cylinder operation	Check the gap between the sensor and the ring
Lights up Check Engine + error P0335	The ECU detects a fault in the DPKV circuit	Read errors with scanner, check sensor
Loss of power during acceleration	Incorrect ignition timing	Diagnose DPCV and timing chain

On Nissan Almera N16 And Primera P12 error P0335 sometimes it appears only at high speeds (above 3000 rpm), which complicates diagnosis. On Pathfinder R51 And Navara D40 The problem may be accompanied by engine vibration due to misfires.

⚠️ Attention: If the engine suddenly stalls while driving and does not start, do not try to tow the vehicle with the gear engaged! This may cause damage to the catalyst due to uncontrolled fuel injection.

Diagnosing error P0335: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P0335, follow this algorithm. To work you will need a multimeter, an error scanner (for example, ELM327) and a basic set of tools.

Read errors with the scanner (make sure there are no associated codes, for example, P0336)

Visually inspect the sensor and wiring for damage

Check the sensor resistance with a multimeter (normal: 500–1000 Ohm)

Measure the gap between the sensor and the ring gear (should be 0.5–1.5 mm)

Check the circuit from the sensor to the ECU for breaks and short circuits-->

Step 1: Reading Errors

Connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector (usually located under the steering wheel). If in addition P0335 there are errors P0336 (intermittent DPKV signal) or P0340 (camshaft sensor malfunction), the problem may be in the mechanical part (for example, crown misalignment).

Step 2: Check the sensor

Crankshaft position sensor on most Nissan located near the flywheel or crankshaft pulley. To check it:

1. Remove the connector from the sensor.
2. Measure the resistance between the sensor contacts with a multimeter. Normal value - 500–1000 Ohm.
3. Check the circuit for a short circuit (the resistance between the contacts and ground should approach infinity).

Step 3: Checking the Gap

The gap between the end of the sensor and the ring gear should be 0.5–1.5 mm. If it is larger, the signal will be weak; if less, the sensor may touch the crown. On Nissan Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 The gap is adjusted by shims under the sensor.

⚠️ Attention: On engines VQ35DE (for example, in Nissan Teana J32) the crankshaft sensor is located in a hard-to-reach place. To check it, it may be necessary to remove the pan or starter.

How to Fix P0335: Repair and Replacement

Remedy P0335 depends on the cause of the malfunction. Let's consider the most common scenarios.

1. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor

If the sensor is faulty (resistance is abnormal or visible damage), it must be replaced. For Nissan Original sensors with article numbers are suitable:

• 23731-4M000 (for engines HR16DE/MR20DE);
• 23731-AL500 (for QR25DE);
• 23731-31U00 (for VQ35DE).

The cost of the original sensor is from 2500 to 5000 rubles. Analogs (for example, Bosch or Denso) will cost less, but their reliability depends on the manufacturer.

2. Wiring repair

If the problem is in the wires, proceed as follows:

• 🔧 Find the break point (often near the exhaust manifold or in the corrugation under the hood);
• 🔌 Strip and solder the wires, insulated with heat shrink;
• 🛠️ Replace the damaged areaif repair is not possible.

3. Cleaning the ring gear

If metal shavings or dirt have accumulated on the crankshaft ring, this may distort the sensor signal. To clean:

1. Remove the starter (on most models Nissan the crown is visible through its hole).
2. Clean the crown teeth with a metal brush or a special cleaner.
3. Check the integrity of the teeth - if they are chipped, the flywheel will need to be replaced.

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

If P0335 does not disappear after replacing the sensor, check:

1. **Correct installation** - the sensor may have been installed misaligned or with incorrect clearance.

2. **Ring Gear Integrity** - Even one chipped tooth can cause an error.

3. **ECU firmware** - on some Nissan (For example, Juke with engine HR16DE) the error appears after unofficial chip tuning. In this case, flashing is required.

4. **Circuit voltage** - use an oscilloscope to check the signal (there should be clear pulses without interference).

Preventing error P0335 on Nissan

To avoid reappearance P0335, follow these guidelines:

• 🔧 Check the condition of the wiring regularly under the hood, especially in places of contact with hot parts;
• 🚿 Avoid high-pressure engine washing — water can get into the sensor connector;
• 🛢️ Monitor the oil level and quality — its contact with the sensor accelerates its wear;
• 🔍 When replacing the timing belt or clutch check the integrity of the ring gear;
• 📊 Reset errors periodically scanner, even if Check Engine does not light up - this will help identify hidden problems.

On Nissan Patrol Y61 And Navara D40 with diesel engines ZD30DDTi error P0335 may appear due to engine vibrations that displace the sensor. In this case, installing an additional mount or replacing the sensor with a reinforced version (for example, from Denso).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error code P0335 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with P0335?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. The engine will run unstable, which can lead to:

• Damage to the catalyst due to incomplete combustion of fuel;
• Increased wear of parts of the cylinder-piston group;
• Complete engine stop while moving (especially dangerous on the highway).

If the error appears for the first time, get to a service station or garage, avoiding high loads on the engine.

How much do diagnostics and repairs cost?

The cost depends on the reason and car model:

• Diagnostics - from 1000 to 2500 rubles;
• Replacing the sensor - from 1500 to 4000 rubles (excluding spare parts);
• Wiring repair - from 2000 rubles;
• Replacing the ring gear - from 10,000 rubles (requires box removal).

On Nissan GT-R or 370Z The cost of repair will be higher due to the difficulty of accessing the sensor.

Can P0335 appear after washing the engine?

Yes, this is one of the common reasons. Water entering the sensor connector or contacts can cause a short circuit or corrosion. If the error appears after washing:

1. Dry the sensor connector with a hairdryer or compressed air;
2. Process contacts WD-40 or special lubricant for electrical contacts;
3. Reset the error using the scanner.

If the problem persists, check the sensor for corrosion.

Which crankshaft sensor is better to choose: original or analogue?

For Nissan original sensors or high-quality analogues from trusted brands are preferred:

• Original — reliability, but high price;
• Denso — optimal price/quality ratio;
• Bosch — a good option for budget repairs;
• Febi or Valeo — average quality, suitable for temporary replacement.

On engines VQ35DE (for example, in Nissan Skyline or 350Z), the use of cheap analogues can lead to the reappearance of the error after 10–20 thousand km.

Could P0335 be due to a faulty ECU?

Yes, but it's unlikely. Error P0335 most often associated with the sensor or its circuit, but in rare cases the cause may be:

• Damage ECU firmware (for example, after unsuccessful chip tuning);
• Malfunction internal circuits block (overheating, corrosion);
• Problems with ECU power supply (for example, oxidation of contacts in the connector).

To diagnose the ECU, specialized equipment is required (for example, Consult-III Plus for Nissan).