Parts for your 2018 Nissan Pathfinder-Crank angle sensor

2018 Nissan Pathfinder crank angle sensor – what it does and when to sort it

Relevant technical sources confirm the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder (R52, 3.5‑litre VQ35DD V6) is fitted with a crank angle sensor, commonly called the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the 2018 Pathfinder (R52), EC – Engine Control section, details the “Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)” signals used by the ECM for ignition and injection timing and lists related DTCs such as P0335/P0336. Nissan’s electronic parts catalogue for the 2018 Pathfinder also lists a CKP sensor for the VQ35DD engine. So yes—it’s a thing on this model and it matters.

On the 2018 Pathfinder, the crank angle sensor keeps the engine computer in the loop on where the crank is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning. That info is the backbone for spark timing, fuel injection, and variable valve timing. If the signal goes missing or glitchy, the V6 can be hard to start, stumble, or stall when hot, and it’ll likely throw a check‑engine light. Common codes include P0335 (CKP “A” circuit) and P0336 (range/performance).

Good news: the sensor isn’t a routine replacement item. During normal servicing, a workshop will typically check for stored fault codes, inspect the wiring and connector for oil contamination or water ingress, and make sure the harness under the bonnet and down by the bellhousing hasn’t chafed. Because the sensor sits near the transmission bellhousing reading a toothed wheel on the crank, heat and vibration can be rough on it over big kilometres, and oil leaks from the rear main area can wick into the plug if left unchecked.

If replacement is needed, it’s usually a simple remove‑and‑refit job from underneath: disconnect the negative battery terminal, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, wiggle the old sensor out, lightly oil the O‑ring on the new unit, seat it squarely, and tighten the bolt to the factory spec (refer to the service manual, typically around 9–10 N·m). No coding is required, the ECM will relearn after a short drive cycle. Clearing codes and confirming live‑data crank rpm during cranking is a tidy way to verify the fix. Sticking with genuine or high‑quality aftermarket parts helps avoid intermittent dramas.

Typical symptoms of a crook CKP sensor on a Pathfinder include:

• Intermittent no‑start or long crank, especially when hot
• Stalling at idle or low speed, rough running, poor fuel economy
• Check‑engine light with CKP‑related fault codes (P0335/P0336)

If any of that rings a bell, it’s worth booking the car into a trusted workshop to test the sensor signal and wiring before it strands the family on the school run.

FAQ – 2018 Nissan Pathfinder crank angle sensor

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2018 Pathfinder?
It’s mounted low on the engine at the transmission bellhousing area, reading a trigger wheel on the crankshaft. Access is usually from underneath with the splash shield removed. Look for a two‑pin (or three‑pin, model‑dependent) connector leading to a small sensor secured by a single bolt.

What fault codes point to a bad crank angle sensor?
The big ones are P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit) and P0336 (Range/Performance). You may also see misfire codes or cam/crank correlation codes if the signal is dropping out. Always check the wiring and connector first—heat and oil can cause intermittent faults that mimic a failed sensor.

Does the sensor need regular replacement?
No, it’s not a scheduled service item. Replace only if it’s faulty or contaminated. As part of routine servicing, have the workshop scan for DTCs and inspect the harness and connector, especially if there are oil leaks at the back of the engine.