Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2017 Nissan Serena crank-angle-sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

Technical documentation confirms the 2017 Nissan Serena (C27, typically with the MR20DD petrol S-HYBRID) uses a crank-angle-sensor, identified by Nissan as the Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS). This is noted in the Nissan Electronic Service Manual for the C27 Engine Control System, which details the POS sensor’s role in timing and diagnostic trouble codes (e.g., P0335/P0336). Nissan genuine parts catalogues for C27 list a dedicated crankshaft position sensor assembly for MR-series engines, aligning with common OE supply from Hitachi.

On the 2017 Serena, the crank-angle-sensor keeps the engine management sorted by tracking the crank’s exact position and speed. The ECU uses that signal to fire the spark and inject fuel at the right moment, sync with the cam sensor for variable valve timing, and monitor for misfires. If this little sensor drops out, the engine can be hard to start, misbehave, or just refuse to run.

It’s mounted near the crankshaft, typically at the transmission side of the block reading a toothed reluctor. It’s not a scheduled service item, but it’s worth keeping an eye on the basics during routine servicing: no oil wicking into the connector, wiring looms clipped and not rubbing on metal, and no corrosion on the pins. Avoid blasting the plug with a pressure washer under the bonnet.

Signs it’s on the way out include:

• Long crank, intermittent no-start, or sudden stalling at low speed
• Rough idle, reduced power, and the MIL/engine light on
• Stored codes like P0335 or P0336

Before replacing, scan the ECU, check live data for missing RPM, and inspect the harness. Because cam and crank signals work together, rule out the cam sensor and any timing issues if codes keep returning.

Replacement is straightforward for most DIYers:

1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, and twist the sensor out (there’s an O-ring).
3. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat the sensor, and tighten the bolt to the factory spec.
4. Clear codes and, if required by the manual, perform an idle/ECU relearn.

Genuine or OE-equivalent parts are the safe bet. There’s no fixed interval, but on higher-kilometre vehicles, proactive inspection during regular servicing pays off. If the Serena starts playing up with classic CPS symptoms, it’s best to sort it promptly—driving with an unreliable signal can leave it stranded.

FAQs

Does the 2017 Nissan Serena actually have a crank-angle-sensor?
Yes. Nissan labels it the Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS) in the C27 Serena service literature. It’s a core input for spark, fuel timing, and sync with the cam sensor, so the engine won’t run properly without it.

Where is the crank-angle-sensor on a 2017 Serena?
It’s typically fitted on the engine block near the transmission bellhousing, reading a toothed wheel on the crank. Access is from the engine bay or underneath, depending on tools and hoist access.

Can they drive with a failing crank-angle-sensor?
It may run intermittently, with hard starting or random stalls, but it’s not wise to keep driving. A complete signal loss will cause a no-start or sudden cut-out, so replacement or repair should be done promptly once diagnosed.