Parts for your 2014 Nissan Serena-Camshaft sensor

2014 Nissan Serena camshaft sensor — what it does and when to sort it

Yes — the 2014 Nissan Serena (C26 series, MR20DD/MR20DE 2.0‑litre petrol, including S‑HYBRID) is fitted with a camshaft position sensor. This is confirmed in the Nissan Serena C26 Service Manual (EC – Engine Control, MR20DD), which details the Camshaft Position Sensor (PHASE) and related DTCs, and is echoed by major aftermarket catalogues from NTK/NGK and Bosch that list a cam sensor for this model and engine.

The camshaft sensor keeps the engine control module in the loop about where the intake cam is in its rotation. Paired with the crank sensor, it lets the ECU fire injectors and coils at the right moment and manage variable valve timing. When it’s healthy, the Serena starts crisply, idles smoothly, and sips fuel the way it should on a long Kiwi or Aussie run.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item, but it does deserve a look-in at service time. Under the bonnet, check the sensor’s connector for oil wicking, broken locks, or green crust on the pins. Because the MR20 uses fine oil control for cam timing, clean, correct‑grade engine oil matters — old, sludgy oil can upset timing behaviour and mask sensor issues.

• Common symptoms of a crook cam sensor: longer cranking, rough idle, flat spots, poor economy, and a Check Engine Light. Fault codes often include P0340/P0341 (camshaft position circuit/performance).
• Quick health checks: scan for DTCs and cam/crank sync, wiggle‑test the loom with live data up, and confirm supply voltage, ground, and signal integrity at the connector.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer: disconnect the battery, locate the sensor at the timing chain end of the cylinder head, remove the retaining bolt, twist and pull the old sensor, lightly oil the new O‑ring, then refit and reconnect. Don’t force it into the bore, and avoid pinching the loom under the cover. Clear codes and verify cam/crank correlation after a short road test. Stick with genuine or quality OEM‑equivalent parts — cheapies can be hit‑and‑miss and may bring the light back on within a few kilometres.

Technical sources referenced: Nissan Serena C26 Series Service Manual (EC – Engine Control, MR20DD, Camshaft Position Sensor [PHASE], DTC P0340/P0341), Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., NTK/NGK Vehicle Electronics Catalogue (camshaft position sensor listing for Serena C26 2.0L, 2010–2016), Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Catalogue (applicability for Serena C26 cam sensor).

Popular questions about the 2014‑Nissan‑Serena camshaft sensor

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2014 Nissan Serena?
On MR20‑series engines it’s mounted at the timing chain end of the cylinder head, typically on the intake cam side near the upper front of the engine under the plastic engine cover. It’s accessible from the top, look for a small, single‑bolt sensor with a two‑ or three‑pin connector.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor?
Common Serena codes are P0340 (camshaft position sensor circuit) and P0341 (camshaft position sensor performance). Less often you may see correlation codes if timing is out or the chain has stretched. Always confirm power, ground, and signal before condemning the sensor.

Should the camshaft sensor be replaced as routine maintenance?
No. It’s replaced on condition. Many run well past 200,000 km. During regular services, inspect wiring and connectors, keep oil changes on schedule, and scan for pending codes. Replace the sensor only if testing shows it’s faulty or contaminated.