Parts for your 2016 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2016 Nissan Serena crank-angle sensor: purpose and servicing

Yes, the 2016 Nissan Serena is fitted with a crank-angle sensor (also called a crankshaft position sensor). This is confirmed in Nissan technical literature: the SERENA C26 Model Series Electronic Service Manual (EC — Engine Control) lists “Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)” for the MR20DE engine, the C27 (2016 launch) MR20DD EC section does the same, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) shows “Sensor Assy–Crankshaft Position” (group 23731) for 2016 Serena variants. These sources make it clear the sensor is part of the engine’s core control hardware.

On a 2016 Serena, the crank-angle sensor keeps the ECU in the loop about crankshaft speed and exact position, so the engine knows when to fire spark, when to inject fuel, and how to sync with the cam sensor. It’s also key for start-up, idle stability, and smooth CVT engagement. If it goes out of whack, drivers may see hard starting, stalling, misfires, sluggish acceleration, or the check engine light with codes like P0335–P0339.

This sensor isn’t a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to give it a once-over during major services (every 60–100,000 kilometres). A quick visual on the wiring near the bellhousing area, checking for oil contamination, cracked insulation, or a loose plug, can save drama later. Keeping connectors clean and seated properly helps avoid intermittent no-start issues that pop up after heat soak.

Replacement is pretty straightforward for a competent tech. Usual process: disconnect the battery, access the sensor at the rear of the engine near the transmission, remove the retaining bolt, and swap the unit. Lightly oil the O-ring on the new sensor, seat it squarely, and tighten the bolt to the service manual spec (often around 8–10 N·m, but always follow the exact spec for the engine variant). After fitting, clear any fault codes and, if the scan tool or manual calls for it, perform a crankshaft pattern/idle air volume learn so the ECU’s happy.

Use a quality OEM-equivalent sensor, bargain-bin parts can cause hot-start gremlins. If the Serena is the S-HYBRID variant, the integrated starter generator doesn’t change the basics — the engine still relies on a healthy crank-angle signal to run right.

• Technical sources: Nissan SERENA C26 Model Series ESM (EC section, MR20DE) “Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)”.
• Nissan SERENA C27 (2016) ESM, EC section (MR20DD) — crankshaft position sensor listed in engine control components.
• Nissan FAST Electronic Parts Catalogue — group 23731 “Sensor Assy–Crankshaft Position” for 2016 Serena.

Popular questions

What are the signs the crank-angle sensor is failing on a 2016 Serena?
Common flags include long cranking or no start when hot, sudden stalling at idle, misfires, rough idle, and the check engine light. A scan often shows P0335–P0339. If symptoms come and go with heat, the sensor or its wiring is a top suspect.

Can the Serena be driven with a dodgy crank-angle sensor?
It might run briefly, but performance can be patchy and it may cut out without warning. In many cases the engine won’t restart when hot. It’s best to diagnose and fix promptly to avoid being stranded and to protect the catalytic converter from misfire damage.

Where is the crank-angle sensor located?
On MR-series engines in the 2016 Serena, it’s typically mounted low to mid-height at the rear of the engine near the transmission bellhousing. Access varies by trim and shields, a torch and small ratchet usually do the trick.