Parts for your 2013 Nissan X-trail-Crank angle sensor

2013 Nissan X‑Trail crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

For the 2013 Nissan X‑Trail (T31 series), a crank angle sensor is fitted and essential to engine management. Technical references that document its use include: Nissan X‑TRAIL Model T31 Series Factory Service Manual (EC/Engine Control section) describing the “Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)”, the Nissan diagnostic coverage for DTCs P0335/P0336 specific to the T31, and the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, which lists a crankshaft position sensor for the MR20DE and QR25DE petrol engines and the M9R diesel. Renault technical literature for the M9R diesel likewise details a CKP sensor for that engine family.

On the 2013 X‑Trail, the crank angle sensor (commonly called the crankshaft position or CKP sensor) tells the engine computer exactly where the crank is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning. That timing data is the backbone for spark and fuel delivery, so the vehicle starts promptly, idles cleanly and pulls strongly up the road. If the sensor signal drops out or goes noisy, the ECU can’t reliably time spark or injection, leading to hard starting, stalling, misfires, or a no‑start. The check engine light often flags codes like P0335 or P0336 when this happens.

There’s no routine maintenance item for the sensor itself, but it pays to keep the connector clean and dry, and to check the engine harness where it routes down the back of the block near the bellhousing. Oil leaks and road grime can work their way into plugs over many kilometres, so a quick look during service is smart.

• Typical symptoms of a failing sensor: long crank or no start when hot, sudden stalling, erratic tacho, rough idle, and stored DTCs P0335/P0336.
• Basic replacement guidance:
  1. Disconnect the battery and raise the vehicle safely. Access is usually from under the car.
  2. Unplug the sensor and remove its single retaining bolt.
  3. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install the new sensor squarely, and tighten the bolt to the factory spec.
  4. Reconnect and clear codes. Perform a crank/cam relearn or an idle learn with a scan tool if prompted.
• Use an OEM or quality equivalent sensor, cheap copies can cause intermittent faults.

Many technicians will also inspect the cam sensor and engine grounds at the same visit. After replacement, some X‑Trail ECUs benefit from a short drive cycle to complete learning. If the light returns, the team should scope the signal and check for wiring damage rather than throwing more parts at it.

FAQs

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2013 X‑Trail?
On most MR20DE and QR25DE petrol models it’s mounted low on the engine block near the transmission bellhousing, reading a toothed wheel on the crank/flywheel. On the M9R diesel it’s similarly positioned at the rear of the block. Access is typically from underneath with the splash shields removed.

What are the common signs it’s failing?
Hard starting (especially when hot), sudden stalling at idle or coming to a stop, misfires, and an illuminated check engine light. Fault codes P0335 or P0336 are common. If it’s completely failed, the engine may crank but not fire.

Does a new sensor need programming?
The sensor itself isn’t coded to the car, but the ECU may need a crank/cam correlation or idle relearn. A capable scan tool makes this quick, otherwise a brief drive cycle often completes learning after codes are cleared and the engine reaches operating temperature.