Parts for your 2019 Nissan Pathfinder-Crank angle sensor

2019 Nissan Pathfinder crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

Yes, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder (R52, VQ35DD 3.5‑litre V6) uses a crank angle sensor, more commonly called the crankshaft position sensor (CKP). Technical references include the Nissan Factory Service Manual for R52 (EC – Engine Control, “Crankshaft Position Sensor [POS]”) and OBD‑II diagnostic coverage for this model listing DTCs P0335/P0336 related to the CKP signal. Nissan’s engine management strategy also pairs the CKP with camshaft position sensors for spark and injection timing on this engine.

On this Pathfinder, the crank angle sensor tracks the toothed reluctor on the crankshaft to tell the ECU exactly where the engine is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning. That live signal is the backbone for fuel injection, ignition timing, and misfire monitoring. Without it, the engine won’t start or will run poorly. It’s mounted at the block/bellhousing area, reading the crank wheel through a small gap, and is typically a three‑wire Hall‑effect unit with a 5 V reference, signal, and earth.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the CKP, but it’s smart to keep an eye on it during servicing. Under the bonnet, check the sensor connector and loom for oil saturation, brittle insulation, or chafing near the transmission and exhaust. If oil leaks track down to that area, sort the leak so it doesn’t wick into the connector. A failing sensor can show up as hot‑soak stalling, hard starting, erratic tachometer behaviour, or a Check Engine light with codes like P0335/P0336.

• When replacing: use an OE‑quality sensor, lightly oil the O‑ring, and seat it squarely without forcing it.
• Route the harness exactly as per factory clips to keep it off hot or moving parts.
• Clear DTCs, then road‑test through a few heat cycles, no coding is usually required.
• If issues persist, inspect cam sensors and the reluctor ring for damage or debris.

DIYers can tackle this with basic tools, but if access is tight or there’s any doubt about wiring integrity, a trusted mechanic with a scope can confirm signal quality and save a lot of guesswork. Given how critical the CKP is, fitting quality parts and taking a careful approach pays off in reliable starts and smooth driving across Aussie and Kiwi kilometres.

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2019 Pathfinder?
It’s mounted low on the engine near the transmission bellhousing, reading a toothed wheel on the crank. Access is typically from underneath, removing the undertray helps. Look for a small three‑wire sensor held in by a single fastener with a sealed connector.

If it’s hard to spot, follow the loom running down the back of the engine. A torch and a small mirror make the job much easier.

What are common symptoms and fault codes of a failing sensor?
Expect hard starting (especially when hot), intermittent stalling, rough running, or no‑start. The Check Engine light often sets with P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit) or P0336 (Range/Performance).

Intermittent faults can be wiring‑related, so inspect the connector and harness before condemning the sensor.

Does the 2019 Pathfinder need programming after CKP replacement?
No special programming is normally required after swapping the crank angle sensor. After installation, clear stored codes and perform a proper road test to allow the ECU to validate signals.

If idle quality seems off, carrying out an Idle Air Volume Learn with a capable scan tool can help, but it’s not usually necessary just for a CKP change.