Parts for your 2000 Nissan Bluebird-Camshaft sensor

2000 Nissan Bluebird camshaft sensor — what it does, why it matters, and how to look after it

Yes, the 2000 Nissan Bluebird does use a camshaft sensor. On Aussie and Kiwi delivered cars with the KA24DE, the cam signal is generated inside the distributor via an optical sensor, and on SR-series engines (SR20DE/SR20DET) it’s provided by a cam angle sensor mounted to the end of the camshaft. This is documented in Nissan’s Bluebird U14 Service Manual (Engine Control – EC), the KA24DE Engine Control System section, and the SR20DE/DET Factory Service Manual EC section, which describe the PHASE/REF signals the ECU uses for ignition and injection timing (including DTC P0340 for camshaft position sensor faults).

The camshaft sensor’s job on a 2000 Nissan Bluebird is straightforward but critical: it tells the ECU exactly where the cam is in its rotation so the computer can time spark and fuel precisely for each cylinder. That’s how the car achieves clean starts, smooth idle and decent economy. Lose that signal and the ECU can’t synchronise properly, on distributor-equipped KA24DE cars, a failed internal optical sensor often means a no-start, while SR-equipped cars may stumble, run roughly, or drop into limp mode and throw a check-engine light.

As part of servicing, it’s worth giving the cam signal hardware a once-over. On KA24DE models, check the distributor for oil ingress and play in the shaft, as oil contamination can fog the optical disc and kill the sensor. Make sure the harness connector is clean and clipped in firmly. If the distributor needs to come off, mark its position against the housing before loosening the hold-down so base timing goes back where it was, then follow the factory procedure to confirm timing with a scan tool/diagnostic mode. On SR engines with a separate cam angle sensor, inspect the O-ring for leaks, ensure the locating dowel is intact, and avoid prying on the sensor face.

Replacement isn’t a scheduled item, it’s done on condition. Common symptoms include hard starting, long cranking, sudden stalling, misfire at cruise, poor fuel economy, and fault code P0340. If replacement is needed, use quality OEM or reputable aftermarket parts — cheap sensors can cause intermittent dropouts that are maddening to diagnose. Always disconnect the battery before unplugging sensors, route the loom away from hot bits under the bonnet, and clear codes with a scan tool after the job to confirm the fix. Look after the basics and the Bluebird’s camshaft sensor will generally keep doing its thing for the long haul.

• Typical symptoms to watch for: long crank/no start, rough idle, loss of power, check-engine light (often P0340)
• Service tips: keep connectors clean, check for oil contamination in the distributor, and mark timing before removal

Technical references: Nissan Bluebird U14 Service Manual (Engine Control – EC, 1999–2000), Nissan KA24DE Engine Control System (distributor optical PHASE/REF), Nissan SR20DE/DET Factory Service Manual EC section (cam angle sensor/CMP and DTC P0340).

Popular questions

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2000 Nissan Bluebird?
On KA24DE models common in Australia and New Zealand, the cam signal is generated by an optical sensor inside the distributor on the end of the camshaft. On SR20DE/SR20DET versions, there’s a separate cam angle sensor bolted to the end of the camshaft (typically at the front of the engine). Either way, it’s cam-driven and provides the ECU with the PHASE signal described in Nissan’s EC documentation.

Will a bad camshaft sensor stop a 2000 Bluebird from starting?
Often, yes. On KA24DE distributor systems, the internal optical sensor provides the primary timing reference, when it fails, the engine may crank but not fire. SR-equipped cars may occasionally start but run poorly or stall. Commonly, the ECU logs P0340 and the engine runs badly or not at all until the signal is restored.

Do camshaft sensors need regular replacement?
They’re not a scheduled service item. Replace only when there are symptoms or a confirmed fault code. Preventative care is simple: keep connectors clean, ensure there’s no oil wicking into the distributor (KA24DE), and avoid heat-soak damage to wiring by securing the loom away from exhaust components.