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Parts for your 2007 Nissan Maxima-Crank angle sensor
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2007 Nissan Maxima crank-angle-sensor: what it does and how to look after it
Yes, the 2007 Nissan Maxima is fitted with a crank-angle-sensor. Nissan’s own 2007 Maxima Factory Service Manual (EC – Engine Control) lists a Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS) that provides crank angle and engine speed to the ECM. This aligns with common parts catalogues and workshop data (e.g., Autodata/Haynes) and Nissan technical bulletins noting DTC P0335 for this model. In short, it’s relevant, present, and essential.
On the 3.5‑litre VQ35DE V6, the crank-angle-sensor tracks the exact position and rotation speed of the crankshaft. The ECM uses that signal to fire the coils at the right moment, time injection precisely, and monitor misfire. Working alongside the cam sensors, it helps the Maxima start crisply, idle smoothly, and pull cleanly through the revs.
It’s not a scheduled service item, but it deserves attention during routine servicing of a 2007‑Nissan‑Maxima crank-angle-sensor. A quick visual once-over goes a long way: check the connector for oil ingress or corrosion, ensure the loom isn’t chafed near the bellhousing, and keep the area free of sludge. If there are hot‑start dramas, sudden stalls, long crank times, a dead tacho flick, or the MIL with P0335, the sensor or its wiring is high on the suspect list.
Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer or any workshop: disconnect the battery, safely raise the car, locate the sensor at the transmission bellhousing area, unplug it, remove the retaining bolt, and ease the sensor out. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the sensor squarely, and tighten the bolt to about 9 N·m (check current service data). Reconnect, clear codes, and perform an idle relearn if needed. Expect around 0.5–1.0 hour of labour. Using a quality OE‑equivalent sensor prevents repeat faults and odd drivability issues.
Because heat and vibration live down by the exhaust and gearbox, the sensor can age out over high kilometres. Keeping the engine tidy, fixing oil leaks promptly, and routing the harness clear of sharp edges all help it live a long, boring life. When it does fail, it’s usually a quick, cost‑effective fix that restores that familiar VQ smoothness under the bonnet.
- Typical symptoms: hard/no start, stalling, rough idle, MIL on (P0335), erratic rev counter
- Good practice: inspect connector and loom every service, keep area clean and dry
- After replacement: clear fault codes and carry out idle/ECM relearn where applicable
Popular questions about the 2007 Nissan Maxima crank-angle-sensor
Does the 2007 Nissan Maxima have a crank-angle-sensor?
Yes. Nissan’s 2007 Maxima Factory Service Manual identifies a Crankshaft Position Sensor (often called a crank-angle-sensor) that the ECM relies on for ignition and injection timing. It’s a core engine management input on the VQ35DE.
What are the signs the crank-angle-sensor is failing?
Common giveaways include longer cranking, intermittent no‑start when hot, sudden stalling at idle or low speeds, rough idle, misfire‑like surges, and the check engine light with DTC P0335. Wiring damage or oil in the connector can mimic a bad sensor, so testing is wise.
How often should it be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. It’s replaced on condition—when fault codes or symptoms appear. During regular servicing, a quick inspection of the sensor area and harness helps prevent surprises and can catch issues early.
