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Parts for your 2019 Nissan Serena-Camshaft sensor
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2019 Nissan Serena camshaft sensor — what it does and how to look after it
Technical sources confirm the 2019 Nissan Serena does use a camshaft position sensor. The Nissan Serena C27 Model Series Service Manual (EC/EM sections, 2018–2020), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue for the C27 MR20DD S-HYBRID and HC27 e-POWER HR12DE variants, and the HR12DE Engine Control System manual all list a Camshaft Position Sensor (often called “PHASE”) fitted to the cylinder head. So yes — it’s relevant to every 2019 Serena, whether it’s the 2.0-litre S-HYBRID or the e-POWER.
This sensor lets the engine control module know exactly where the camshaft is, so it can time fuel injection and ignition, manage variable valve timing, trim emissions, and get quick, clean starts. If it goes out of whack, the ECM can fall back on the crank sensor to a point, but drivers may notice lazy performance or tough starting.
Even on the e-POWER Serena, where the petrol engine mainly runs as a generator, the camshaft sensor still matters. The ECM uses it to phase injection and keep combustion tidy whenever the engine spins up, a faulty sensor can stop the system from starting altogether.
- Common tell-tales: check engine light with codes like P0340/P0341
- Long crank, misfire at idle, or a stall when hot
- Flat spots, poor fuel economy, or limp behaviour
- Intermittent running if the wiring or connector is damaged
It’s not a scheduled replacement item in normal servicing. The smart play is preventative care: keep oil changes on time (correct spec oil helps protect the sensor from varnish), and give the sensor connector and harness a quick visual once-over for chafing near the rocker cover. Avoid soaking the sensor tip in harsh cleaners.
Replacement is typically straightforward for a home spannerer:
- Disconnect the battery and unplug the sensor.
- Remove the retaining bolt, ease the sensor out, and swap the O-ring (lightly oil it).
- Refit, snug the bolt to spec, reconnect, clear codes, and perform an idle learn if needed.
Use a genuine or quality OEM-equivalent sensor, cheapies can cause repeat faults. If both cam and crank codes appear together, or the fault returns after a new sensor, get the timing chain, reluctor and wiring checked before throwing more parts at it.
Popular questions
Does a 2019 Nissan Serena actually have a camshaft sensor?
Yes. Both the MR20DD S-HYBRID and the e-POWER HR12DE variants are listed with a Camshaft Position Sensor (PHASE) in Nissan’s C27 service manuals and parts catalogues. It’s mounted on the cylinder head and is essential for phasing injection, ignition, and variable valve timing.
Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2019 Serena and how hard is it to replace?
It’s located on the cylinder head near the timing chain end. Access is usually from the top. Replacement is a simple unplug-bolt-swap job with a new O-ring, allow 15–30 minutes. Clear any fault codes afterwards and perform an idle learn if prompted.
What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor on this model?
Common codes are P0340 and P0341. You might also see starting issues, rough idle, or stalling. If you get cam and crank codes together, consider wiring issues, poor grounds, or mechanical timing concerns rather than the sensor alone.
