Parts for your 2008 Nissan Maxima-Camshaft sensor

2008 Nissan Maxima camshaft sensor — what it does, why it matters, and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2008 Nissan Maxima is fitted with camshaft position sensors. The Nissan Factory Service Manual for the 2008 Maxima (EC: Engine Control) lists two “Camshaft Position Sensor (PHASE)” units, one for each bank of the VQ35DE V6. The Nissan FAST parts catalogue shows these as serviceable items (commonly referenced under part family 23731-****). Standard OBD-II diagnostics for this model also include camshaft sensor fault codes such as P0340/P0345, further verifying their use on this vehicle.

On the 2008 Maxima, the camshaft sensors track each cam’s position as it spins, letting the ECU time fuel injection and ignition precisely and manage the variable valve timing system. When they’re healthy, the car starts crisply, idles smoothly, and makes the most of its fuel. When one goes crook, expect hard starts, rough running, sluggish performance, odd shifts, or the check engine light. It can even drop into a limp mode, which isn’t ideal for your commute across town.

Servicing the 2008‑Nissan‑Maxima camshaft-sensor is straightforward. There are two sensors, typically mounted at the rear of each cylinder head. Under the bonnet, remove the engine cover, disconnect the battery negative, unplug the sensor connector, and undo the single retaining bolt (usually 10 mm). Gently twist the sensor out, minding the O‑ring. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the new sensor, and torque the bolt to about 8 N·m. Reconnect, clear any fault codes, and you’re away. If the connector is brittle or oil-soaked, replace it or clean with proper electrical contact cleaner.

Good practice on these VQ35DE engines is to consider replacing both cam sensors together if one has failed, especially on higher‑kilometre cars. It saves doubling up on labour and helps keep timing data consistent between banks. Use quality parts that meet OE spec, as cheapies can cause intermittent dramas that are hard to pin down. If faults persist after replacement, check the harness routing, grounds, and the crankshaft sensor, since the ECU correlates all three to run the show.

Typical symptoms of a failing cam sensor on this Maxima include:

• Hard starting, extended cranking, or stalling at idle
• Flat spots, poor fuel economy, or muted power
• Check engine light with codes like P0340/P0345

Keeping connectors clean, fixing oil leaks that can contaminate the plug, and scanning for stored codes at regular services will keep the 2008 Maxima’s cam timing happy and the driving nice and tidy.

Popular questions

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2008 Nissan Maxima?
There are two. They’re mounted at the rear of each cylinder head (Bank 1 and Bank 2), near the firewall. Remove the engine cover and you’ll find a small sensor held by a single bolt with an electrical connector on each bank.

Access is tighter on one side, so a small ratchet, extensions, and patience help. Always disconnect the battery negative before unplugging sensors.

Can you drive with a bad camshaft sensor?
It might still run, but it can stumble, stall, or go into a reduced‑power mode. That’s risky for overtaking and can cook the cat if it misfires. Best to sort it promptly to avoid poor fuel economy and potential damage.

If the light’s on with P0340/P0345, check the connector and wiring first, then replace the sensor if needed.

Do both cam sensors need replacing at the same time?
Not strictly, but on higher‑kilometre VQ35DE engines it’s a smart move. If one’s failed, the other may not be far behind, and changing them together keeps bank‑to‑bank timing signals even and saves labour later.

Use OE‑quality sensors and fit new O‑rings to prevent oil weeps and future faults.