Engine Nissan X-Trail T31 is famous for its reliability, but electronic systems are not immune to failure. When the "Check Engine" light comes on on the dashboard and the scanner issues a code P0335, the owner is faced with a serious problem that requires immediate attention. This code indicates a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor circuit, which makes it impossible for the ignition and fuel injection systems to operate correctly.
Ignoring this error can lead to a complete failure to start the engine or its sudden stop while driving. In the case of MR or QR series motors installed on Nissan X-Trail, the absence of a signal from the crankshaft blocks the fuel supply, since the ECU does not understand what position the pistons are in. You need to understand that this is not just a warning, but a critical failure that requires diagnosis.
In this article we will examine in detail the technical aspects of the origin of the code. P0335, letβs look at the most common reasons for its appearance on a crossover Nissan X-Trail T31 and provide a step-by-step algorithm of actions for self-checking or monitoring the work of service personnel.
The essence of the error and the principle of operation of the system
The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is one of the key engine control elements. It generates a signal that allows the electronic control unit (ECU) synchronize the operation of the injectors and ignition system with the rotation of the crankshaft. Without this signal, the engine will not be able to start, since the computer simply does not know when to fire the spark.
On Nissan X-Trail T31 This sensor is usually located at the bottom of the engine, near the crankshaft gear. It reads the teeth of a special disk that rotates with the shaft. If the signal is interrupted, there is an open circuit or data corruption, the ECU records an error P0335 and puts the car into emergency mode or completely blocks the start.
It is important to note that the problem may not only be with the sensor itself. Sometimes the signal is lost due to mechanical damage to the teeth on the pulley or wiring problems. The most common cause on the T31 is oxidation of the contacts in the sensor connector due to moisture and oil entering the engine compartment.
Main symptoms of malfunction
You will immediately notice something is wrong if the P0335 error appears while driving. The vehicle's behavior becomes unpredictable, which creates a safety hazard. You should pay attention to the following signs indicating a malfunction of the DPKV.
- β οΈ Sudden stop of the engine while driving without the possibility of restarting
- β οΈ Long cranking by the starter when trying to start a cold engine
- β οΈ Unstable idle speed and floating tachometer needle
- β οΈ No spark on the spark plugs during diagnostics with a scanner
Sometimes the car may start but run rough. This occurs when the sensor signal becomes too weak or intermittent. In such cases, the ignition system tries to guess the position of the pistons, which leads to jerks and power failures. If you notice these symptoms, stop using the vehicle to prevent damage to the catalytic converter.
Interestingly, on some models Nissan X-Trail with a 2.0 liter engine, symptoms may only appear when the engine warms up to operating temperature. This suggests that the problem lies in the heating of the wiring or the sensor element itself, which changes its characteristics as it expands.
β οΈ Attention: If the engine stalls on the highway, do not try to endlessly turn the starter. This can drain the battery and damage the starter if the problem is not the starter but a lack of timing signal.
Critical causes of failure
When diagnosing error P0335 on Nissan X-Trail T31 it is necessary to consider the entire range of possible causes, from the simplest to the complex. Often, owners immediately change the sensor, but the problem may remain unresolved if the associated elements are not checked.
The first and most obvious reason is the failure of the crankshaft position sensor. Over time, the magnet in its composition weakens, or the internal winding burns out. Mechanical contamination is also a common problem: metal shavings generated in the motor can stick to the sensor tip, distorting the magnetic field.
- β οΈ Damage to the insulation of the sensor circuit wires due to vibration or overheating
- β οΈ Oxidation of contacts in the connector chip (especially if oil gets in)
- β οΈ Worn or damaged teeth on the crankshaft pulley
Wiring problems cannot be ruled out either. On Nissan X-Trail bundles of wires pass close to hot engine components. Over time, the insulation wears out and a short circuit or open circuit occurs. The ECU sees an open circuit and issues a code P0335, even if the sensor itself is working. Checking the resistance and integrity of the wires with a multimeter is mandatory.
In rare cases, the culprit is the electronic control unit itself. A software failure or damage to the internal circuits of the ECU can lead to false readings of errors. However, before blaming the computer, you need to exclude all external factors, since it is the most expensive part of the system.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
To accurately identify the cause of the error, you will need a multimeter and, preferably, a diagnostic scanner. The process begins with a visual inspection. Open the hood, find the crankshaft sensor and check the condition of the connector and the wires going to it.
Remove the connector from the sensor and inspect the contacts. If you see green residue, rust or traces of oil, this is a sure sign of oxidation. Cleaning the contacts may temporarily solve the problem, but it is better to replace the connector or solder the contacts. Also check the gap between the sensor and the pulley - it should not exceed the permissible standards.
Measure the sensor resistance. For most engines Nissan (QR and MR series) normal resistance ranges from 500 to 1500 ohms. If the device shows βinfinityβ (open) or zero (short circuit), the sensor must be replaced. Also check for voltage at the connector when the ignition is turned on.
If the electrical part is ok, you need to check the mechanics. Remove the sensor and inspect its tip. If it is covered with metal shavings, wipe it with a clean rag. Chips can get onto the sensor due to engine wear or problems with the seals.
It is also worth checking the condition of the crankshaft pulley ring gear. This may require removing the sensor and using a flashlight to inspect the teeth through the hole. Damage to even one tooth can cause a timing failure, which the ECU interprets as P0335.
β οΈ Attention: When checking the wires, do not pull them sharply, this may lead to tearing off the contacts inside the insulation. Test by lightly tugging the wire near the connector while the multimeter displays the value.