Parts for your 2007 Nissan Primera-Camshaft sensor

2007 Nissan Primera Camshaft Sensor: Purpose, Care, and Replacement

Technical sources confirm the 2007 Nissan Primera (P12) uses a camshaft position sensor. The Nissan Primera P12 Electronic Service Manual (EC section) details a Camshaft Position Sensor (often labelled “PHASE”) for the QG18DE 1.8 and QR20DE 2.0 petrol engines, as well as the diesel variants. Nissan’s parts catalogues list dedicated CMP sensors for these engines, and the factory diagnostics include DTCs like P0340/P0345 specifically for the cam sensor circuit. So yes, this model is fitted with a camshaft sensor, and it matters.

On the Primera, the camshaft sensor keeps the engine in sync by telling the ECU exactly where the cam is relative to the crank. That timing data lets the ECU fire the injectors sequentially, trim ignition timing, and manage variable valve timing where fitted. When it’s healthy, cold starts are crisp, idle is smooth, fuel economy stays tidy, and emissions are kept in check. When it’s crook, expect hard starting, misfires, stalling, limp-home mode, or a no-start with the check-engine light on.

It’s not a regular “service item”, but it’s smart to inspect it during major servicing. Under the bonnet you’ll usually find it on the cylinder head near the timing chain end (petrol engines) or at the head on diesels. Look for oil wicking into the plug, a brittle connector, or wiring chafing. A quick clean of the connector, checking pin tension, and ensuring the O-ring isn’t leaking can head off dramas down the track.

If replacement’s on the cards, choose an OE or high-quality aftermarket sensor—these engines can be fussy about signal quality. The job is generally straightforward: disconnect the battery, remove any engine covers, unplug the connector, undo the retaining bolt, and wiggle the sensor free. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat the sensor squarely, refit the bolt, and reconnect. Clear any stored codes and road-test. There’s usually no coding required, the ECU reads the signal and gets on with it. If codes return, double-check the crank sensor, wiring integrity, and consider timing-chain wear or stretch—common culprits that can mimic a bad cam sensor.

• Typical symptoms: long crank, poor accel, rough idle, stalling, P0340/P0345.
• Service tip: inspect connector and harness at each major service (around 60,000 km).
• Always verify with live data—look for a clean, stable cam signal alongside the crank signal.

FAQs

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2007 Nissan Primera?
On most petrol P12 engines (QG18DE/QR20DE), it’s on the cylinder head near the timing-chain end under the plastic engine cover. On diesel variants, it’s also mounted at the head, typically toward the gearbox side. It’s a small sensor held by a single bolt with a two- or three-pin connector.

What are the signs the camshaft sensor is failing?
Common giveaways include hard starting, intermittent stalling, rough idle, flat spots, poor fuel economy, and a check-engine light with codes like P0340 or P0345. If the sensor signal drops out, the ECU may revert to a backup strategy or prevent starting altogether.

Does a new camshaft sensor need programming?
No special coding is typically needed. Fit the new sensor, clear fault codes, and take a test drive. If issues persist, inspect the crank sensor, wiring, and consider timing-chain wear, as those can trigger similar faults.