Parts for your 2010 Nissan Pulsar-Camshaft sensor

2010 Nissan Pulsar camshaft sensor — fitted, what it does, and how to look after it

Yes, a camshaft sensor is used on the 2010 Nissan Pulsar. In Australia and New Zealand, that model year effectively maps to the C11-series Nissan Tiida (sold in some channels as Pulsar), running HR16DE or MR18DE petrol engines. The Nissan Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for the C11 Tiida (EC and EM sections) specifies a camshaft position (CMP) sensor as an input for sequential fuel injection and variable valve timing logic. The earlier Pulsar N16 ESM and Nissan genuine parts catalogues for the 2010 Tiida/Pulsar also list a CMP sensor, confirming fitment. Autodata and Haynes technical databases mirror this, noting fault codes like P0340/P0345 for cam sensor circuits on these engines.

On this 2010 Nissan Pulsar, the camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine control module exactly where the cam is in its rotation. Paired with the crank sensor, it lets the ECU time injection and spark bang-on, especially during start-up and at low revs. It’s also used to monitor and control the variable valve timing system so the car pulls cleanly and sips fuel rather than guzzling it.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval, but a dodgy sensor can cause hard starting, misfires, lumpy idle, flat spots, increased fuel use, or the MIL popping on. Many drivers first see a check engine light with codes such as P0340/P0341. Because these engines are chain-driven, stretched timing chains or gummed-up oil control can mimic cam-signal faults, so proper diagnosis matters.

• Quick checks: Confirm engine oil is the right grade and clean, poor oil can upset cam timing control. Scan for codes and look at live data for cam/crank synchronisation.
• Replacement advice: It’s a simple R&,R job for a competent DIYer—disconnect the battery, locate the sensor at the cylinder head/chain cover, unplug the connector, remove the small retaining bolt, and ease the sensor out. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat it squarely, and nip the bolt to spec (around 8–10 N·m is typical). Clear codes and verify sync.
• Service tips: Use quality OEM-equivalent sensors, keep connectors clean and dry, and if faults persist, inspect timing chain stretch and cam phaser operation before throwing more parts at it.

Most workshops will bundle cam sensor checks into diagnostic time rather than routine servicing. If the car’s starting to behave crook—especially when hot—or the light’s on, it’s worth scheduling a test so small issues don’t snowball into bigger repair bills.

• Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2010 Nissan Pulsar?
  The sensor sits at the end of the cylinder head near the timing chain cover (intake side on most HR/MR engines). Pop the bonnet and look down the side of the head for a small, two- or three-pin plug going into a stubby sensor held by a single bolt.
• Can you keep driving with a faulty camshaft sensor?
  It may still run, but starting can get tricky and performance will be off. Prolonged driving can trigger rich running and damage the catalytic converter. Best to sort it sooner rather than later.
• Does the camshaft sensor need regular replacement?
  No set interval. They’re replaced on condition. Good servicing—correct oil, clean connectors, and fixing any timing-chain issues—helps them last.