Crankshaft position sensor (CPS) on Nissan Almera - A critical element of the engine management system. Its malfunction leads to malfunctions of the engine: from unstable idling to complete failure to start. Unlike oxygen or knock sensors, DPKV does not have redundant systems, so its failure paralyzes the car. Owners Almera G15, N16 And Classic with engines QG15DE, QG16DE or HR16DE They encounter this problem most often after 100–150 thousand kilometers.

In this article we will analyze not only the replacement process, but also unique pitfalls of specific Almera modifications — for example, why on models with automatic transmission, after replacing the sensor, it may be necessary to reset the transmission adaptations, or how to distinguish the original sensor Hitachi from counterfeit by marking. You will also find a spare parts compatibility table, current article numbers and answers to questions that are not covered in standard manuals.

Signs of a faulty crankshaft sensor on a Nissan Almera

Symptoms of DPKV failure are often confused with problems with the ignition or fuel supply system. However there is characteristic "markers", which directly point to the sensor:

  • 🔴 The engine starts only after several attempts (especially when “hot”), but then it runs stably.
  • 🔴 Lights up on the dashboard Check Engine with errors P0335 (“Crankshaft sensor circuit”) or P0336 (“Invalid DPKV signal”).
  • 🔴 Traction disappears at low speeds (1,500–2,500 rpm), the engine becomes “stupid” when accelerating.
  • 🔴 At idle, the speed “floats” in the range of ±200 rpm, spontaneous engine stops are possible.
  • 🔴 B Nissan Consult or ELM327- the scanner records misfires on all cylinders simultaneously.

On Almera Classic (N16) with engine QG16DE faulty DPKV may appear false immobilizer activation — the car is blocked from starting, although the key is recognized. This is due to the fact that the ECU does not receive a timing signal from the crankshaft and activates the protection.

⚠️ Attention: If on your Almera errors appeared P0335/P0336 After washing the engine or heavy rain, do not rush to change the sensor. First, check the integrity of its connector and the absence of corrosion on the contacts. In 30% of cases the problem is solved by cleaning the contacts CRC Contact Cleaner.
📊 What symptom of DPKV malfunction have you encountered?
  • Engine won't start
  • Floating speed
  • Check Engine with P0335/P0336
  • Power Loss
  • Other

Crankshaft sensor diagnostics: how to confirm a breakdown

Before replacing DPKV, it is necessary to exclude other causes of similar symptoms. Here is the verification algorithm:

  1. Scanner (For example, Launch CReader or ELM327) read errors. If except P0335/P0336 There is P0300 (multiple misfires), this indirectly confirms the problem with the DPKV.
  2. Multimeter check the sensor resistance:
    • 🔧 On Almera G15 (DPKV Hitachi) normal resistance - 550–750 Ohm.
    • 🔧 On Almera N16/Classic (DPKV Mitsubishi) — 800–1,200 Ohm.

Indications 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break) indicates a malfunction.

  • Oscilloscope (or a scanner with an oscilloscope function, for example, Delphi DS150E) look at the signal shape. On a working sensor, the amplitude should be at least 0.5 V when cranking with the starter.

    • If you don’t have diagnostic equipment at hand, you can use by elimination:

    • 🔧 Check the integrity of the wiring from the DPKV to the ECU (often frays near the exhaust manifold).
    • 🔧 Make sure that the sensor does not get metal shavings or dirt (especially important after timing belt repair).
    • 🔧 Check the gap between the sensor and the sync disk - it should be 0.5–1.5 mm.
    How to check DPKV without a scanner?

    If there is no diagnostic equipment, you can temporarily install a known-good sensor (for example, removed from another car). If the symptoms disappear, your DPCV is faulty. Important: Do not use sensors from other Nissan models (for example, Note or Tiida), even if they are externally identical, they may have a different frequency response.

    Choosing a crankshaft sensor: original vs analogues

    On Nissan Almera Three types of sensors were installed depending on the year of manufacture and engine:

    Model Almera Engine Original article Manufacturer Analogues (tested)
    Almera G15 (1995–2000) GA15DE 23731-4M000 Hitachi Blue Print ADG02303, Febi 23216
    Almera N16 (2000–2006) QG16DE 23731-AL500 Mitsubishi Valeo 587023, Hella 6PT 009 105-321
    Almera Classic (2006–2012) QG16DE, HR16DE 23731-JM00A Mitsubishi Siemens VDO 5WK9 703, NGK 19001

    When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

    • 🔍 Markings on the body: original sensor Hitachi for G15 has an inscription HITACHI CRK-20, and fakes are often signed as CRK20 (no hyphen).
    • 🔍 Housing material: the original has a metal tip with a plastic tip, while the cheap analogues have a completely plastic tip.
    • 🔍 Wire length: on Almera Classic the original sensor has a wire length 60 cm, and for many analogues - 45 cm, which complicates installation.
    ⚠️ Attention: Sensors for Almera N16 And Almera Classic externally identical, but have a different frequency response! Installing the sensor from N16 on Classic will lead to an error P0336 and unstable engine operation at high speeds.
    💡

    Before purchasing a sensor, remove the old one and compare it with the proposed analogues in terms of weight. The original DPKV weighs about 120 grams, and fakes are often 20–30 grams lighter due to the use of cheaper materials.

    Step-by-step instructions for replacing the crankshaft sensor

    The process of replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera takes 30–60 minutes depending on access to the sensor. On G15 And N16 it is located to the right of the oil filter (when viewed in the direction of travel), and on Classic - next to the gearbox.

    Required tools:

    • 🔧 Head or key on 10 mm (for fastening bolt).
    • 🔧 Extension cord and ratchet (for convenience).
    • 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the chip).
    • 🔧 Dielectric grease (e.g. Liqui Moly Silicon-Fett).
    • 🔧 Rags and contact cleaner (CRC or WD-40 Contact Cleaner).

    Work order:

    ☑️ Replacing DPKV on Nissan Almera

    Done: 0 / 10

    On Almera Classic with engine HR16DE There is a caveat: the sensor is located under the thermostat, and to access it you will have to remove the air duct and partially bend the wiring harness. Do not pull on the sensor wires — they come off easily from the body!

    After installing a new DPKV:

    1. Connect the scanner and reset the errors P0335/P0336.
    2. Start the engine and let it idle for 5-10 minutes.
    3. Check for errors and speed stability.
    💡

    On cars with automatic transmission, after replacing the DPKV, it is recommended to reset the transmission adaptations via the scanner (the “Reset TCM” or “AT Adaptation Reset” function). This will prevent jerking when changing gears in the first 100–200 km.

    Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when replacing DPKV with Nissan Almera. Here are the most common:

    • 🚫 Using sealant: The sensor O-ring must be dry. Sealant or excess lubricant may cause the sensor to become misaligned and cause incorrect clearance.
    • 🚫 Fastening bolt tightening: the tightening torque should not exceed 10 Nm. Otherwise, the sensor body may be deformed.
    • 🚫 Ignoring sync disk check: on Almera N16 after 150 thousand km, the disk teeth can grind down, which leads to false alarms of the new sensor.
    • 🚫 Connecting the connector “on weight”: the chip must be fixed in the standard mount, otherwise vibration will lead to broken contacts.

    Another typical problem is error appears P0335 after replacement. Reasons:

    • 🔧 Incompatible sensor (for example, from Nissan Primera instead of Almera Classic).
    • 🔧 Damage to the wiring during installation (check the circuit with a multimeter).
    • 🔧 Metal shavings on the synchro disk (you need to clean the disk and check the condition of the crankshaft seal).

    If the engine runs unstable after replacement, check:

    1. The gap between the sensor and the sync disk (must be 0.5–1.5 mm).
    2. Integrity of the sensor wire shielding (often rubs against the exhaust manifold bracket).
    3. Availability of ECU firmware updates (for Almera Classic with HR16DE There is a bug in the software that causes false DPKV errors).

    Replacement cost: yourself vs service

    The price of work to replace the DPKV in the service depends on the region and type of service station:

    Service type Cost of work (rub.) Sensor cost (RUB) Total (RUB)
    Official dealer Nissan 2 500–4 000 3,500–5,000 (original) 6 000–9 000
    Independent service 1 200–2 500 1,500–3,000 (analog) 2 700–5 500
    On your own 0 1 500–5 000 1 500–5 000

    The savings when replacing yourself are obvious, but keep in mind:

    • 💰 If problems arise after replacement (for example, a broken wire), troubleshooting will cost 1,500–3,000 rub..
    • 💰 Diagnosing errors at an official dealer costs 1,000–1,500 rub., even if you arrive on your own sensor.
    • 💰 On Almera Classic with HR16DE It may be necessary to reset the automatic transmission adaptations (500–1,000 rub.).

    When purchasing a sensor, pay attention to the warranty: for original spare parts it is 12–24 months, and for analogues - often only 6 months.

    FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to drive with a faulty DPKV?

    Technically the engine can run, but this is highly discouraged. Without a signal from the DPKV, the ECU goes into emergency mode, which leads to:

    • 🔥 Increased fuel consumption (up to +30%).
    • 🔥 Risk of detonation due to incorrect ignition timing.
    • 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (may melt).

    On Almera G15 with GA15DE Driving for a long time with a faulty DPKV often leads to failure of the ignition coils.

    Which sensor is better to choose: original or analogue?

    The original sensor is more reliable, but is not always justified in price. If your budget is limited, choose analogues from Hella, Valeo or Blue Print - they have good reviews on Almera. Avoid Brands Febi And Meyle for this model there is a high percentage of defects.

    On Almera Classic with HR16DE original sensor 23731-JM00A serves on average 180–200 thousand km, and analogues - 80–120 thousand km.

    Do I need to clear errors after replacement?

    Yes, definitely! Even if Check Engine went out on its own, “ghost” errors remain in the ECU memory, which can affect engine operation. Use a scanner or disconnect the battery terminal for 10 minutes (but then all adaptations, including climate control, will be reset).

    On Almera N16 with QG16DE After resetting the errors, it is recommended to carry out the “throttle learning” procedure (Throttle Position Learning).

    Is it possible to clean the old sensor?

    Cleaning is possible, but effective only in 20% of cases - if the problem is contamination of the contacts or the case. Use isopropyl alcohol or carburetor cleaner (not acetone!). Do not rub the surface of the sensor with abrasives - this will destroy the magnetic properties.

    If the sensor is faulty due to an internal break or demagnetization, cleaning will not help. On Almera G15 Often the sensor winding fails - in this case, only replacement.

    Why doesn't the new sensor solve the problem?

    There are several reasons:

    1. Incompatible sensor (for example, from Nissan Micra instead of Almera).
    2. The synchro disc is damaged (check the teeth for chips).
    3. The problem is in the wiring (check the circuit from the sensor to the ECU).
    4. The ECU itself is faulty (on Almera Classic with HR16DE There are problems with the “brains” after 200 thousand km).

    If after replacement there is an error P0336 remains, check the voltage at the sensor connector with the ignition on - there should be 5 V.