Parts for your 1998 Nissan Primera-Camshaft sensor

1998 Nissan Primera camshaft sensor: is it actually used?

Short answer: a separate, bolt-on camshaft sensor isn’t used on most 1998 Nissan Primera (P11) petrol models. Nissan’s own technical literature states the camshaft position signal is generated inside the distributor. The Nissan Primera P11 Factory Service Manual (EC section, 1996–1999 printings) describes the “Camshaft Position Sensor (PHASE)” as integrated within the distributor’s optical crank angle sensor. Haynes Primera 1990–1999 and common workshop data (Autodata) say the same: there’s no standalone cam sensor on the head for GA16DE or SR20DE engines, it’s part of the distributor assembly. That means a listing for a separate camshaft-sensor won’t apply to most 1998 Primera petrol variants sold across the UK, NZ, and many JDM imports into Aus/NZ.

Why Nissan did it this way: the optical sensor in the distributor reads engine speed and phase directly from the camshaft, feeding the ECU both reference and phase signals. It simplifies the hardware on these older setups and avoids needing both a crank and a separate cam sensor.

What owners should look for instead: if they’re chasing a cam sensor fault (often a P0340 code), the likely culprit is the distributor’s internal cam/crank angle sensor or its wiring. Repair options usually revolve around replacing the distributor assembly, or rebuilding it with an internal sensor kit if they’re handy with fine alignment work. After refit, base timing needs to be set per the FSM “timing mode” procedure.

• Common symptoms of a failing distributor/CAS: hard starting or no-start when hot, random stalling, misfires, erratic tacho, poor fuel economy, and stored codes such as P0340.
• Checks under the bonnet: inspect the distributor plug and loom for brittleness, oil ingress inside the cap, and shaft play. Clean the connector, confirm good engine and chassis grounds, and verify power/earth at the distributor before condemning the sensor.

Note: some diesel CD20 variants use different pickup arrangements and still don’t have a conventional separate camshaft sensor. If unsure, match parts by VIN/engine code before ordering.

Technical sources referenced: Nissan Primera P11 Factory Service Manual (EC section, “Camshaft Position Sensor (PHASE) – built into distributor”), Haynes Manual for Nissan Primera 1990–1999, Autodata engine management/timing data for GA16DE/SR20DE P11.

• Does a 1998 Nissan Primera have a separate camshaft sensor?
  No for most petrol P11s. The camshaft position signal is built into the distributor’s optical sensor, not a separate sensor on the head. That’s per the Nissan P11 Factory Service Manual and common workshop references. Ordering a standalone cam sensor for these engines won’t fit.
• How do you fix a P0340 on a 1998 Primera?
  Start with the distributor: check the connector, power/earth, harness continuity to the ECU, and look for oil or heat damage inside. If signals are missing or erratic, replace or rebuild the distributor (internal sensor). After replacement, set base timing as per the FSM.
• Can the internal cam sensor be replaced without changing the whole distributor?
  It can, but it’s fiddly. Internal sensor kits exist, yet many workshops in Aus/NZ just fit a quality reman or new distributor for reliability and warranty. If doing the internal sensor, mark positions carefully and follow the FSM to avoid timing headaches.