Error code P0335 on Nissan X-Trail (especially relevant for models T31 2007–2013 and T32 2014–2020) signals problems with crankshaft position sensor (CPS) or his chain. This malfunction can lead to unstable engine operation, difficult starting, or even complete engine stop. Owners often encounter this error after replacing the timing belt, moisture getting into the engine compartment, or when the wiring is worn out.
Unlike other sensor related errors, P0335 requires immediate attention: ignoring the problem is fraught with damage to the ignition coils or even the engine control unit (ECU) due to incorrect crankshaft position signals. In this article we will analyze exact reasons errors, diagnostic methods (including testing with a multimeter), as well as repair nuances - from cleaning contacts to replacing a sensor or wiring harness.
What does error P0335 mean on Nissan X-Trail
Code P0335 stands for "Circuit Malfunction in Crankshaft Position Sensor A" - Malfunction of 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. If the signal is missing, distorted or interrupted, the control unit switches the engine to emergency mode or blocks starting.
On Nissan X-Trail with engines MR20DE (2.0 l), QR25DE (2.5 l) and M9R (2.0 l diesel) the crankshaft sensor is located next to the flywheel or generator drive pulley. Its design includes:
- 🔹 Magnetic core — reacts to the teeth of the flywheel ring.
- 🔹 Winding — generates a pulse signal.
- 🔹 3-pin connector: power (+5V or +12V), ground, signal wire.
Error P0335 fixed when the ECU detects:
- 🚨 No signal from the sensor for more than 2 seconds.
- 🚨 Unstable or abnormal signal (for example, pulse amplitude below 0.3V).
- 🚨 Short circuit or break in the sensor circuit.
- MR20DE (2.0 l)
- QR25DE (2.5 l)
- M9R (diesel 2.0 l)
- Other
- I don't know
The main causes of error code P0335
Causes P0335 on Nissan X-Trail are divided into mechanical (related to the sensor or flywheel) and electric (problems with wiring or ECU). Let's look at them in detail:
| Fault type | Specific reason | How it manifests itself |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Worn or damaged crankshaft sensor | The error appears when the engine warms up or after washing |
| Mechanical | Sensor contamination with metal shavings | Unstable startup, error disappears after cleaning |
| Electrical | Open or shorted wiring harness | The error appears during vibration (for example, on bumps) |
| Electrical | Oxidation of contacts in the sensor connector | Error disappears periodically after cleaning contacts |
| Others | ECU or firmware malfunction | The error is accompanied by other codes (for example, P0336) |
In practice 60% of cases errors P0335 associated with damage to the sensor itself (especially on cars older than 10 years), and 30% - with wiring problems. The remaining 10% is due to mechanical damage to the flywheel ring gear or failures in the computer.
⚠️ Attention: On diesel Nissan X-Trail (engine M9R) error P0335 often accompanied P0340 (camshaft sensor malfunction). In this case, first check the timing chain - it may jump by 1-2 teeth.
Symptoms of error P0335: how the malfunction manifests itself
Error P0335 may manifest itself differently depending on the severity of the malfunction. At the initial stage, the driver notices:
- 🔴 Difficulty starting engine (especially when cold).
- 🔴 Floating speed at idle (from 500 to 1500 rpm).
- 🔴 Loss of power when accelerating (as if the gas pedal is “dull”).
If the sensor is critically malfunctioning or the circuit is broken, the symptoms worsen:
- 🚗 Engine stalls while driving and will not start.
- 🚗 Lights up on the dashboard Check Engine (sometimes flashes).
- 🚗 Additional errors are recorded in the ECU memory: P0336 (sensor signal range), P0325 (open circuit).
On Nissan X-Trail T32 with the system Start/Stop error P0335 often blocks automatic engine starting after stopping. This is due to the fact that the ECU cannot determine the position of the crankshaft for correct fuel injection.
If error P0335 appears only after washing the engine or in wet weather, the problem is 90% likely in the oxidized contacts of the sensor connector. Check them out first!
Diagnosing error P0335: step-by-step instructions
For accurate diagnosis P0335 on Nissan X-Trail you will need:
- 🔧 Multimeter (with resistance and voltage measurement mode).
- 🔧 Scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327).
- 🔧 Screwdriver and contact cleaner (WD-40 or CRC).
Sequence of actions:
- Count errors by scanner.
Connect the diagnostic adapter to the connector
OBD-II(located under the steering wheel) and check for additional codes. If in addition P0335 There is P0325 or P0326, the problem is in the sensor power circuit. - Check the sensor connector.
Disconnect the connector from the sensor (press the latch and pull up). Inspect the contacts for oxidation or corrosion. Clean them if necessary WD-40 and a toothpick.
- Measure the sensor resistance.
Switch the multimeter to ohmmeter mode and connect the probes to the sensor terminals (pins 1 and 2). Normal resistance for Nissan X-Trail: 500–700 Ohm. If the readings are below 400 Ohms or above 1000 Ohms, the sensor is faulty.
- Check supply voltage.
Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine). Connect the multimeter in voltmeter mode to the contacts of the sensor connector: between
+12V(pin 3) andmass(pin 1). The voltage should be 11.5–12.5V.
Scanner checking for additional errors|
Cleaning the sensor connector contacts|
Sensor resistance measurement (500-700 ohms)|
Checking the supply voltage (11.5–12.5V)|
Visual inspection of the flywheel ring gear -->
If all parameters are normal, but the error remains, check:
- 🔍 Wiring integrity from the sensor to the ECU (often grinds near the exhaust manifold).
- 🔍 Flywheel ring gear — whether the teeth are broken (checked through the inspection window in the clutch housing).
- 🔍 Shielding harness — sometimes the signal is “clogged” by interference from high-voltage wires.
How to Fix P0335: Repair or Replace
Remedy P0335 depends on the cause of the malfunction. Let's consider repair options from simple to complex:
1. Cleaning contacts and sensor
If the error appears after washing or in damp weather, all you need to do is:
- Remove the connector from the sensor and clean the contacts WD-40.
- Check the sealing ring on the sensor for leaks (replace if necessary).
- Dry the sensor with a hairdryer (without overheating!).
2. Replacing the crankshaft sensor
If the sensor is faulty (resistance is outside the norm), it must be replaced. For Nissan X-Trail original sensors fit:
- 🔧 23731-4M000 (for gasoline engines
MR20DE/QR25DE). - 🔧 23731-EA20A (for diesel
M9R).
Cost of the original sensor: 2500–4000 rub. Analogs (for example, Bosch or Febi) will cost 1500–2500 rub., but their resource is lower.
How to remove the crankshaft sensor on a Nissan X-Trail
1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Disconnect the sensor connector (press the latch).
3. Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt (10 mm wrench).
4. Carefully remove the sensor by rocking it from side to side (do not use force!).
5. Install the new sensor in the reverse order, after lubricating the sealing ring with engine oil.
3. Wiring repair
If the problem is in the wiring harness:
- 🔧 Find the location of the open or short (often near the exhaust manifold or gearbox).
- 🔧 Strip and solder the wires, insulating them with heat shrink.
- 🔧 In case of critical damage, replace the entire harness (part number for X-Trail T31: 25460-4M000).
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan X-Trail T32 with the system Start/Stop after replacing the crankshaft sensor it may be necessary throttle adaptation via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431). Without this, the engine will run unstably.
4. Checking the ECU and firmware
If after replacing the sensor and wiring the error remains, the problem may be:
- 🖥️ ECU malfunctions (burnt tracks or capacitors).
- 🖥️ Firmware failure (relevant after chip tuning).
In this case, diagnostics is required SDS (service scanner Nissan) or flashing the block.
On diesel Nissan X-Trail (M9R), error P0335 is often accompanied by a fuel system malfunction. After replacing the crankshaft sensor, be sure to check the rail pressure (normal: 300–400 bar).
Cost of repairs and where is the best place to get them repaired
The cost of fixing the error P0335 depends on the reason and location of the repair:
| Type of repair | Cost (RUB) | Working hours |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostics (scanner + multimeter) | 1000–1500 | 30–60 min |
| Replacing the crankshaft sensor (work) | 1500–2500 | 1–1.5 hours |
| Wiring repair (soldering + insulation) | 2000–3500 | 2–3 hours |
| Replacing the wiring harness (original) | 8000–12000 | 3–4 hours |
| ECU diagnostics + flashing | 5000–10000 | 1 day |
Where is the best place to repair:
- 🔧 Official dealer Nissan - guarantee for work, but high price (diagnostics from 2000 rubles).
- 🔧 Specialized electrical services — the best option for repairing wiring or ECU.
- 🔧 On your own - only if you have experience working with a multimeter and scanner.
On owner forums Nissan X-Trail (For example, X-Trail Club Russia) it is often advised to contact specialists who specialize in Renault-Nissan, since they know better the nuances of the electronics of these cars.
Frequently asked questions about error code P0335
Is it possible to drive with P0335?
Short term - yes, but not recommended. The engine will operate in limp mode with reduced power, which increases fuel consumption and the risk of damage to the ignition coils. On diesel X-Trail riding with P0335 may lead to fuel injection pump malfunction.
Why does P0335 only appear when the engine is hot?
This is a typical sign thermal breakdown sensor or contact oxidation. When heated, the sensor resistance goes beyond normal limits, or microcracks in the solder joints of the wiring expand. Check the sensor "hot" with a multimeter - if the resistance is above 1000 Ohms, replacement is required.
How can you tell the difference between a bad crankshaft sensor and a flywheel problem?
If the flywheel ring gear is damaged, error P0335 accompanied by metallic knock from the gearbox area and can only appear at certain speeds. To check, remove the crankcase protection and inspect the ring through the inspection window (an assistant is required to crank the engine with the starter).
Should P0335 be reset after repair?
Yes, but not right away. After eliminating the cause (replacing the sensor or repairing the wiring), start the engine and let it run for 5–10 minutes. If the error does not appear, reset it with a scanner or by disconnecting the battery terminal for 10 minutes. If P0335 returns - the problem is not resolved.
Could P0335 be caused by a bad alternator?
Indirectly - yes. If the generator undercharges the battery, the voltage in the on-board network drops below 11.5V, which leads to incorrect operation of the crankshaft sensor. Check the voltage on the battery with the engine running (normal: 13.8–14.4V).