Parts for your 2009 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2009 Nissan Serena crank angle sensor: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2009 Nissan Serena uses a crank angle sensor. Nissan’s own technical literature for the C25 Serena (EC – Engine Control section of the Factory Service Manual) and MR-series engine documentation identify a crankshaft position sensor (often called “POS” or crank angle sensor) as a key input to the engine control module. It’s fitted to MR20DE-powered Serenas and reads a toothed wheel on the crank to track position and speed.

On this model, the crank angle sensor’s job is to tell the ECU exactly where the crankshaft is and how fast it’s spinning so it can fire the coils and injectors at the right moment. That means easy starts, smooth idle, clean acceleration and good fuel economy. It also helps with misfire detection and keeps the timing rock solid under all loads and temperatures.

Typical mounting is low on the engine near the gearbox bellhousing, where the sensor “looks” at the flywheel or flexplate tone ring. It’s a non-adjustable, Hall- or magnetic-type sensor with an O-ring seal and a single retaining bolt.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it should be checked whenever the Serena comes in for diagnostics or if there are drivability issues. A crook crank angle sensor can cause:

• Hard starting or a no-start when hot or cold
• Rough idle, misfire, or random stalling
• Sluggish performance and poor fuel use
• Check Engine Light with codes like P0335/P0336

When replacing, go for an OE or high-quality aftermarket unit, and replace the O-ring. Under the bonnet steps are straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the bolt, swap the sensor, lightly oil the new O-ring, seat it squarely, and torque the bolt to spec. After installation, clear any fault codes and let the ECU relearn idle if the battery’s been disconnected. Inspect the harness for oil contamination or brittle insulation while you’re in there, because wiring faults can mimic a failed sensor.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but many workshops take a “fix on failure” approach. If the Serena shows the symptoms above—especially intermittent stalling—don’t keep driving it, a failing sensor can leave it stranded without warning. Sorting it early usually saves a tow and keeps the MR20DE running sweet as.

Popular questions about 2009 Nissan Serena crank angle sensors

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2009 Nissan Serena?
On most MR20DE Serenas it sits low on the engine, typically at the gearbox bellhousing area, reading a tone ring on the flywheel/flexplate. Access is from underneath or from the front with the splash shield off. Look for a small two-wire sensor secured by a single bolt with a short harness tail.

What are the signs and fault codes of a failing crank angle sensor?
Drivers often see a Check Engine Light and experience hard starting, random stalling, rough idle, or loss of power. Common OBD-II codes are P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit) and P0336 (Range/Performance). Because wiring or connector issues can trigger the same codes, a proper scan and live-data check is the way to confirm.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy crank angle sensor?
Not really. If the signal drops out, the Serena can stall suddenly or refuse to restart. If it’s showing intermittent symptoms, plan repair soon, if it’s stalling or won’t start, organise a tow to avoid being stuck or creating a hazard in traffic.