Parts for your 2016 Nissan Navara-Camshaft sensor

2016 Nissan Navara camshaft-sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2016 Nissan Navara (D23 series) is fitted with a camshaft-sensor. Technical sources that confirm this include the Nissan Navara D23 Service Manual (EC — Engine Control System), which details the Camshaft Position (PHASE) sensor and related DTCs like P0340/P0341, and the EM — Engine Mechanical section that shows sensor locations. Nissan’s electronic parts catalog (often referred to as FAST) also lists a camshaft position sensor for the D23’s common engines — the YS23DDT/DDTT 2.3-litre diesel and the QR25DE 2.5-litre petrol — making the sensor a core engine management component on this model year.

On a 2016 Navara, the camshaft-sensor tells the engine control module exactly where the camshaft is in its rotation. That sync info is used for precise fuel injection timing, starting, idle stability, and (on petrol variants) variable valve timing control. If the signal goes missing or drifts, the ute can crank longer, stumble, run rich or lean, drop into limp mode, or log fault codes. Common tell-tales include hard starting, misfires, rough idle, lack of power, and the check engine light with codes such as P0340 or P0341.

The camshaft-sensor isn’t a scheduled maintenance item, but it benefits from simple care during regular servicing. A quick visual check for damaged wiring, loose connectors, oil contamination around the sensor bore, or a perished O-ring can prevent intermittent faults. Keeping to clean oil and proper service intervals also helps overall valve timing reliability, which the ECU cross-checks against the sensor signal.

Replacement is typically straightforward. After confirming the fault with a scan tool and live data, disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat the new unit, and tighten the bolt to the workshop manual specification. Reconnect, clear codes, and verify the cam/crank sync with the scan tool. Genuine or reputable OE-quality parts are recommended to avoid signal noise and premature failures. For most D23 engines, access is from the top of the engine near the cylinder head, the diesel YS23 usually places the sensor at the rear/side of the head, while the QR25 petrol sits near the rocker cover. A competent DIYer with basic tools can handle it, but if the vehicle has persistent stalling or the MIL returns immediately, it’s worth having a technician check harness integrity and ECU updates.

Technical sources referenced: Nissan Navara D23 Series Service Manual — EC (Engine Control System) Camshaft Position (PHASE) Sensor and DTC P0340/P0341, EM (Engine Mechanical) sensor location diagrams, Nissan electronic parts catalogue (FAST) listings for YS23DDT/DDTT and QR25DE camshaft position sensors.

Popular questions about the 2016 Nissan Navara camshaft-sensor

Does a 2016 Navara have one or two camshaft-sensors?
Most 2016 D23 Navaras run a single camshaft-sensor paired with a crank sensor for synchronisation. Engine and market variations exist, so checking by VIN or peeking at the head/rocker cover area will confirm what’s fitted on a specific ute.

When fault codes mention “Sensor A” or “Bank 1,” that’s just the ECU’s labelling convention, on these inline-four engines there’s only one bank.

Where is the camshaft-sensor on a 2016 Navara?
On the YS23 2.3 diesel, it’s typically mounted on the cylinder head toward the rear or side, accessible from the top under the bonnet. On the QR25 2.5 petrol, look around the rocker cover area at the front/upper side of the engine. A small 1-bolt flange and a 2- or 3-pin connector give it away.

If access is tight, removing a plastic engine cover or an intake duct usually makes life easier.

Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft-sensor?
It might start and run, but it can stall, drop into limp mode, or refuse to restart once hot. That’s not ideal around town and risky on the open road. It’s best to diagnose early, and replace the sensor if confirmed faulty, to avoid getting stranded.