Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2012 Nissan Serena crank-angle sensor: what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2012 Nissan Serena (C26) is fitted with a crank-angle sensor, more commonly called the crankshaft position sensor (POS). Nissan’s Electronic Service Manual for the C26 Serena (EC section: “Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS) – Description” and DTC P0335/P0336 diagnostics), the Nissan parts catalogue (EPC/FAST, Group 237: “Sensor Assy–Crankshaft Position,” e.g., 23731‑EN20A, VIN dependent), and mainstream aftermarket catalogues for MR20DE/MR20DD engines all show a dedicated crank-angle/CKP sensor. It’s a core input to the Serena’s ECM for ignition timing, fuel injection timing, misfire detection and engine speed.

On a 2012 Serena, the crank-angle sensor continuously tracks crankshaft rotation so the ECM knows where each cylinder is in its cycle. That lets the van start crisply, idle smoothly and deliver proper fuel economy. When the sensor signal drops out or goes noisy, you’ll often get hard starting or a no-start, cutting out while driving, rough idle or limp mode, along with a check-engine light and codes like P0335 or P0336.

There’s no set replacement interval in normal servicing, so the game plan is inspect and react. During routine services, it’s worth a quick look: check the harness for rub-through under the bonnet, make sure the connector is clicked in and dry, and clear away oil or road grime that can wick into plugs. Heat and vibration are the usual culprits as kilometres rack up.

• Common symptoms: long crank/no start, random stalling, erratic tacho, poor fuel economy, stored DTCs P0335/P0336.
• Basic replacement tips: disconnect the battery, access the sensor at the rear of the engine near the transmission bellhousing (often just below the starter on MR20-series engines), remove the single retaining bolt, twist and withdraw the sensor, lightly oil the new O-ring, and refit. Tighten to the manufacturer’s spec (around 8–10 N·m is typical, check your ESM). Clear codes and perform an idle/ECM relearn if required.
• Handy kit: 10 mm socket, small ratchet, torque wrench, dielectric grease for the connector.

Quality matters here. A genuine Nissan unit or a reputable brand from a known supplier will save you chasing gremlins. If the van’s done big kilometres and has intermittent sync faults, some techs replace both the crank-angle and cam sensors together, but it’s not mandatory unless diagnostics point that way.

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2012 Serena?
It’s typically mounted at the rear of the engine where it meets the transmission bellhousing, usually just below or near the starter. From under the vehicle, look up at the bellhousing flange, you’ll see a small sensor with a single bolt and a two- or three-pin connector.

Can you drive with a failing crank-angle sensor?
Sometimes it’ll start and then stall, or run rough and drop into limp mode. Because it can turn into a no-start without warning, it’s best not to keep driving. If it’s cutting out, organise a tow and sort it before you’re stranded.

Do the crank and cam sensors need replacing together?
No, they’re separate parts. Replace the faulty one first. If the vehicle has high kilometres and intermittent sync issues, doing both can be preventative, but only after proper fault codes and tests back that up.