Parts for your 2015 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2015 Nissan Serena crank-angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor) — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2015 Nissan Serena uses a crank-angle sensor (more commonly called a crankshaft position sensor or CKP). Nissan’s Electronic Service Manual for the C26-series Serena (Engine Control/EC section for the MR20DE and S-HYBRID variants) specifies a Crankshaft Position Sensor “POS” used by the ECM for ignition and injection timing. Nissan’s parts catalogue for the C26 Serena also lists a dedicated CKP sensor and harness connector. These factory sources confirm the sensor is both fitted and essential to engine management on this model.

On a 2015 Serena, the crank-angle sensor keeps the engine’s timing sharp by telling the ECU exactly where the crankshaft is in its rotation. That information, combined with the cam sensor, lets the ECU fire the injectors and coils at the right moment, so the van starts quickly, idles smoothly, and pulls cleanly through the revs. If the sensor signal drops out, the ECU can’t sync spark and fuel, leading to hard starting or a no-start, sudden stalling, or limp behaviour.

It’s not a routine “replace-by-kilometres” item, but it’s smart to give it some love during servicing. A quick visual once-over of the sensor body at the transmission bellhousing and the harness that runs past the back of the engine can prevent headaches. Look for oil weep onto the connector, cracked insulation, or rubbing points. If you’re chasing an intermittent stall or long crank, scan for fault codes like P0335/P0336 and check live data for an RPM signal while cranking.

When replacement is needed, stick with a quality OEM-equivalent sensor. The job is straightforward with basic tools, but access can be tight on some trims, allow extra time if you’re working on the driveway. Always:

• Disconnect the battery and let the ECU power down.
• Inspect and clean the connector, light contact cleaner is fine.
• Torque the new sensor to spec (don’t overtighten into the alloy).
• Clear codes and confirm a clean crank signal on a scan tool.

Telltales of a crook CKP include random stalling when hot, rough idle, misfires at low rpm, the tacho dropping to zero during a cut-out, poor fuel economy, and those P0335/P0336 codes. Because the Serena’s ECU relies on a crisp crank signal for timing, a healthy sensor and harness are key to reliable Kiwi and Aussie family hauling.

Popular questions

Where is the crank-angle (crankshaft position) sensor on a 2015 Nissan Serena?

It’s typically mounted low on the engine near the transmission bellhousing, reading a toothed wheel on the crank. Access is from underneath or through the wheel arch on many C26 trims, so getting the van safely on stands helps.

Does the crank-angle sensor need regular servicing or scheduled replacement?

No set interval. It’s a “inspect and replace if faulty” item. During regular servicing, check the wiring for chafe, keep oil leaks off the connector, and scan for codes if you notice long cranking or stalling.

What symptoms point to a failing crank-angle sensor on a Serena?

Hard starting or a no-start when hot, sudden stalling, erratic idle, poor fuel economy, and engine light with P0335/P0336 are common. If the tach drops to zero during a stall, the CKP signal is a prime suspect.