Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Camshaft sensor

2012 Nissan Serena camshaft sensor — what it does and when to service it

Technical sources confirm the 2012 Nissan Serena (C26, MR20DE petrol) is fitted with a camshaft position sensor. The Nissan Serena C26 Factory Service Manual (EC section) describes the ECM using the “camshaft position sensor (PHASE)” for injection and valve timing control, and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue lists the sensor assembly (commonly referenced as 23731-EN21A) for this model. Industry data tools used in workshops (e.g., Autodata) also document a CMP on the MR20DE. So yes — this vehicle uses a camshaft sensor.

On the 2012 Serena, the camshaft sensor tells the engine computer exactly where the intake cam is in its rotation. That timing signal lets the ECM run true sequential fuel injection, manage CVTC (Nissan’s variable valve timing), sharpen cold starts, and keep emissions tidy. Without a clean cam signal, it may still crank and even run off the crank sensor alone, but it’ll start poorly and feel a bit ordinary.

Common symptoms of a tired or failed sensor include a hard or long crank, random stalling, rough running at idle, doughy throttle response, and a glowing check-engine lamp. Typical fault codes technicians see are P0340 or P0341 for the cam signal. Fuel use can creep up and the Serena can feel lazier because the ECM can’t command valve timing as precisely.

• It isn’t a scheduled replacement item — it’s replaced when faulty. During servicing, it’s worth checking the connector, harness routing and for oil leaks from the rocker cover that can wick into the sensor plug.
• Location is usually on the cylinder head near the timing chain on the intake side. The MR20DE in the 2012 Serena typically uses one CMP sensor.
• Replacement is straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug, remove the small hold-down bolt, swap the sensor and O-ring, lightly oil the new O-ring, refit and torque the bolt to about 8–10 N·m (workshop spec may vary).
• Clear codes and road-test. The ECM generally doesn’t need a special relearn, but some scan tools provide a CKP/CMP sync check after repair.
• Use quality parts (genuine or reputable OEM brands) to avoid intermittent faults, and keep the area clean — contamination and heat are the main killers.

Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Serena camshaft sensors

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2012 Nissan Serena?
The camshaft sensor on the MR20DE is mounted on the cylinder head near the timing chain end, typically on the intake side. It’s accessed from the top of the engine under the bonnet, remove the engine cover, and the small sensor with a single bolt and plug is visible on the side of the head.

Some regional variants and later facelifts can differ slightly, so if access looks tight, a quick peek in a service manual or a VIN-based parts lookup will confirm the exact spot.

Can they still drive if the camshaft sensor is failing?
Often it’ll start and run, but it may crank longer, stall unexpectedly, or drop into a reduced-performance strategy. That can be unsafe in traffic and may risk catalyst damage if misfires occur. Best practice is to minimise driving, get the fault code read, and fix it promptly.

Short trips to a workshop are usually fine if the engine runs cleanly, but avoid extended highway runs until it’s sorted.

What does replacement cost in Australia or New Zealand?
Expect roughly AU$70–$180 or NZ$80–$200 for a quality aftermarket sensor, and AU$150–$260 or NZ$160–$280 for genuine, depending on supply. Labour is typically 0.3–0.6 hours, so around AU$80–$180 or NZ$90–$190 at typical rates.

Most owners land between AU$150–$400 or NZ$170–$450 fitted. Prices vary with brand choice, workshop rates, and whether any oil-leak repairs or wiring fixes are needed.