Fault code P0340 on cars Nissan - one of the most common problems associated with the gas distribution system. This error indicates a problem with the camshaft position sensor (CPS) circuit, which can lead to unstable engine operation, increased fuel consumption, or even the inability to start the car. Model owners Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke And Note encounter it especially often, but the causes and solutions may vary depending on the year of manufacture and engine type.
In this article we will look at what exactly it means error 0340, what symptoms accompany it, and how to independently diagnose it without visiting a service center. You will also find out which parts most often fail, how much repairs at a car service center will cost, and whether you can drive with this error without consequences. For convenience, we have collected step-by-step instructions, sensor compatibility tables and answers to frequently asked questions.
What does the P0340 code mean on Nissan?
Code P0340 in the diagnostic system Nissan stands for "Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1)". This sensor (DPRV) is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the fuel injectors and ignition system with the camshaft position. If the engine control unit (ECU) does not receive the correct signal or detects its absence, it records an error and can put the engine into emergency mode.
It is important to understand that P0340 is a general code that does not indicate a specific cause. It can lie either in the sensor itself or in the wiring, connectors, or even mechanical malfunctions of the gas distribution mechanism. For example, on engines HR16DE (installed on Juke And Note) wear on the camshaft gear is more often to blame, and on MR20DD (Qashqai J11) - problems with the timing chain.
- 🔧 DPRV sensor - failure or contamination
- ⚡ Wiring - breaks, short circuit or oxidation of contacts
- ⚙️ Mechanical problems — timing chain stretch, camshaft gear wear
- 🖥️ Software glitches — ECU firmware errors (rare, but occurs after chip tuning)
On some models, for example Nissan Almera G15 with engine K4M, error P0340 may appear periodically during a cold start and disappear after warming up. This is often due to an unstable sensor signal due to temperature fluctuations.
- Qashqai
- X-Trail
- Juke
- Note
- Almera
- Other
Symptoms of error 0340: how does the malfunction manifest itself?
Error P0340 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in the operation of the car. Here are the most typical signs:
- 🚗 Difficulty starting the engine — the starter turns, but the engine does not start or stalls immediately after starting
- ⚡ Power dips — jerks during acceleration, especially at low speeds
- 🔥 Increased fuel consumption — The ECU goes into emergency mode and fills the cylinders with fuel
- 🛑 Check Engine — the lamp lights up and does not go out (sometimes flashes when driving)
- 🔊 Unusual sounds - knocking or clanging noises from under the hood (may indicate problems with the timing chain)
On cars with a CVT (Nissan Qashqai J11, X-Trail T32) error P0340 sometimes manifests itself as a “jerking” when changing gears. This is due to the fact that the transmission ECU receives incorrect data about the camshaft position and incorrectly adjusts the gear ratio.
⚠️ Attention: If together with P0340 errors appear P0335 (crankshaft sensor) or P0016 (shaft misalignment), this may indicate timing chain jump or critical gear wear. In this case, further operation of the vehicle prohibited — urgent diagnosis is required!
| Symptom | Probable Cause | Urgency of repair |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | DPRV circuit break or sensor failure | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (critical) |
| Jerks during acceleration | Unstable sensor signal or timing chain stretch | ⭐⭐⭐ (average) |
| Check Engine Flashing | Shaft misalignment (risk of valve damage) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high) |
| Increased fuel consumption | The ECU is in emergency mode | ⭐⭐ (low) |
Reasons for error 0340 appearing on Nissan
To effectively eliminate P0340, you need to accurately determine the root cause. Let's look at the most common scenarios for different models Nissan:
1. Malfunction of the camshaft position sensor (CPR)
The sensor may fail due to:
- 🔥 Overheating (often on engines with a turbine, for example, Nissan Juke 1.6 DIG-T)
- 💧 Oil or antifreeze ingress (if oil seals leak)
- 🕒 Natural wear (sensor life - 100–150 thousand km)
On Nissan Qashqai J10 (2007–2013) the DPRV sensor often “glitches” due to corrosion of the connector. It is enough to clear the contacts for the error to disappear.
2. Problems with wiring or connector
Breaks or short circuits in the sensor circuit are the second most common reason P0340. Wires are especially vulnerable at bend points in the engine, where they rub against metal elements. On Nissan X-Trail T31 The insulation of the exhaust manifold often wears out.
Also check:
- 🔌 Oxidation of contacts in the sensor connector
- 🔗 Reliability of the “mass” (often rots on the body and battery)
- 🔋 Voltage in the circuit (should be 5 V when the ignition is on)
3. Mechanical timing faults
If the sensor and wiring are ok, the problem may lie in:
- ⛓️ Stretched timing chain (relevant for Qashqai J11 after 150 thousand km)
- ⚙️ Worn camshaft gear (typical for engines
HR16DE) - 🔄 Marks that have jumped 1–2 teeth (after replacing the chain or belt)
⚠️ Attention: On enginesMR20DD(2.0 l) andM9R(2.0 dCi) timing chain stretching can lead to collision of valves with pistons! If the error P0340 accompanied by a metallic knock, stop using immediately car.
How to check timing chain stretch without disassembling?
Remove the valve cover and check the alignment of the marks on the camshafts and crankshaft when rotated by the starter. If the marks “move” by more than 2–3 mm, the chain is stretched.
Diagnosing error P0340: step-by-step instructions
To pinpoint the cause P0340, follow this algorithm. To work you will need:
- 🔧 Multimeter (to check sensor and wiring)
- 🔍 Diagnostic scanner (ELM327 or similar)
- 🛠️ Set of keys (for removing the sensor)
Read errors with a scanner (make sure there are no associated codes)|Check the sensor circuit with a multimeter (resistance, voltage)|Inspect the connector for corrosion and damage|Ring the wiring from the sensor to the ECU|Check the mechanical part (timing timing marks, chain)-->
Step 1: Read Errors
Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel) and read all saved errors. Please note:
- If together with P0340 There is P0335 (crankshaft sensor), the problem is most likely in the wiring or the ECU.
- If there is P0016 or P0018, check the timing marks.
Step 2: Checking the DPRV sensor
The sensor is located on the cylinder head (cylinder head) and camshaft. Verification algorithm:
- Remove the connector from the sensor.
- Measure the resistance between the contacts (should be 500–1500 Ohms, depending on the model).
- Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (5 V between “+” and “ground”).
On Nissan Note E12 the sensor often “sticks” due to metal shavings. It is enough to clear it for the error to disappear.
Step 3: Check Wiring
Ring the circuit from the sensor to the ECU:
- 🔋 The positive wire (usually red or orange) should be 5V.
- 🔌 Negative (black or brown) - “mass” (0 Ohm to the body).
- 📶 Signal wire (green or yellow) - resistance to the ECU should be close to 0 ohms.
Step 4: Mechanical Check
If the electrical part is OK, inspect:
- 🔗 Timing chain - for stretching or jumping.
- ⚙️ Camshaft gear - for chips or play.
- 🔧 Timing marks — for a coincidence (see the manual for your model).
On engines HR16DE And MR16DDT The camshaft gear often wears unevenly. Check it for runout - if the play is more than 0.5 mm, replacement is required.
How to fix error code P0340: repair methods
The repair method depends on the cause of the problem. Below are step-by-step solutions for each case.
1. Replacing the camshaft position sensor
If the sensor is faulty, it must be replaced. The cost of the original sensor for Nissan — from 2,500 to 5,000 rubles (depending on the model). Analogs (for example, Bosch or Febi) will cost 1,500–3,000 rubles.
Replacement algorithm:
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Remove the connector from the sensor.
- Unscrew the sensor with a 10 mm wrench.
- Install the new sensor after lubricating the O-ring.
- Connect the connector and check for errors.
On Nissan Juke The sensor is located inconveniently - it may be necessary to remove the intake manifold.
2. Wiring repair
If the problem is in the wires:
- 🔧 Clean and insulate damaged areas.
- 🔌 Replace the sensor connector (cost: 300–800 rubles).
- 🔋 Check the ground on the body and restore contact if necessary.
3. Troubleshooting mechanical problems
If the timing chain or gear is at fault:
- ⛓️ Replacing the timing chain — a set of works (chain, shoes, tensioner) will cost 15,000–30,000 rubles.
- ⚙️ Replacing the camshaft gear — 5,000–10,000 rubles (requires removal of the valve cover).
- 🔧 Adjusting the marks — if the chain has jumped, you need to align the shafts according to the marks (it is not recommended to do it yourself!).
⚠️ Attention: On engines M9R (diesel) replacing the timing chain requires a special tool to fix the shafts. Incorrect installation may result in engine breakdown!
4. Reset error
After eliminating the cause, the error must be reset. This can be done:
- 🔧 Through a diagnostic scanner (“Clear DTC” command).
- 🔋 Removing the battery terminal for 10-15 minutes (does not always work).
If the error appears again, the problem is not completely resolved.
On most Nissan models, after replacing the air pressure sensor or timing chain, it is required throttle adaptation (Throttle Valve Learning procedure). Without it, the engine may run unstably.
Cost of repairs in service vs. do-it-yourself repair
Elimination prices P0340 vary depending on the reason and vehicle model. Below are indicative prices for Moscow and regions (for 2026):
| Type of repair | Cost (on your own) | Cost (service) |
|---|---|---|
| Replacing the DPRV sensor | 1,500–3,000 ₽ (detail) | 3,000–6,000 ₽ (with work) |
| Wiring repair | 300–1,000 ₽ (materials) | 2 000–4 000 ₽ |
| Replacing the timing chain | 8,000–15,000 ₽ (set) | 15 000–30 000 ₽ |
| Diagnostics | 0 ₽ (if you have a scanner) | 1 000–2 500 ₽ |
Self-repair is beneficial if you have:
- 🔧 Minimum set of tools (wrenches, multimeter).
- 📖 Access to the repair manual for your model.
- ⏳ Time and patience (for example, replacing a timing chain takes 6-8 hours).
The service will charge 2-3 times more for the same work, but will give a guarantee (usually 6-12 months). If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to trust the professionals - especially when working with timing belts.
Is it possible to drive with P0340?
Short answer: possible, but not advisable. Long driving with error P0340 is fraught with serious consequences:
- 🔥 Engine overheating - due to incorrect operation of the ignition system.
- ⚡ Increased wear of parts — The ECU floods the cylinders with fuel, which accelerates wear of the piston group.
- 💥 Broken timing chain - if the reason is a stretched chain, it can break at any moment.
Valid scenarios:
- 🚗 If the error appears for the first time and there are no other symptoms (for example, after refueling with bad gasoline), you can drive to your home or service center.
- 🔧 If you are sure that the problem is in the sensor or wiring (no mechanical faults), you can drive the car no more than 1–2 days.
⚠️ Attention: On diesel engines (Nissan X-Trail 2.0 dCi) riding with P0340 absolutely not recommended! The risk of damage to fuel equipment and turbines is extremely high.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error code P0340 on Nissan
Can P0340 be caused by bad gasoline?
No, fuel does not directly affect the operation of the camshaft sensor. However, low-quality gasoline can cause detonation, which indirectly damages the sensor or wiring. If the error appears after refueling, also check knock sensor (code P0325).
How to distinguish a faulty air pressure control valve from a problem with the timing chain?
If the sensor is at fault, error P0340 usually appears periodically (for example, when it’s cold). If the problem is in the timing chain, the error is stable, and the engine runs with a metallic knock or “troits.” Also, when the chain is stretched, it often appears P0016 (shaft misalignment).
Is it necessary to do adaptation after replacing the DPRV sensor?
On most models Nissan (For example, Qashqai J11, X-Trail T32) after replacing the sensor, the ECU adaptations must be reset. This can be done through a diagnostic scanner (Erase Learning Values command) or by removing the battery terminal for 10 minutes. Without this, the engine may run unstably.
Can P0340 cause increased oil consumption?
The error itself does not lead to oil wasting. However, if the cause is a worn timing chain or camshaft gear, it may indicate general engine wear. Check the oil level and condition of the seals - especially on engines MR20DD And M9R, where this is a common problem.
Which air pressure sensors are suitable for Nissan Qashqai J11?
For Qashqai J11 (2014–2021) with engines MR20DD And H5FT The following sensors are suitable:
- Original: Nissan 23731-4M51A (about 4,500 ₽)
- Analogues: Bosch 0 261 210 115, Febi 35206, Blue Print ADS30010 (2 000–3 000 ₽)
Before purchasing, check the article number using the VIN code - restyled models (after 2017) may have sensors of a different type.