Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Crank angle sensor

2020 Nissan Serena crank angle sensor

Based on Nissan technical documentation and parts catalogues, the 2020 Nissan Serena (C27) does use a crank angle sensor, referred to by Nissan as the Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS). The C27’s MR20DD 2.0-litre petrol models and the e-POWER variant with the HR12DE engine both list a crankshaft position sensor in the Nissan Electronic Service Manual (Engine Control/EC sections) and in the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue. These sources note the sensor’s role in engine timing and engine speed detection.

The crank angle sensor on a 2020 Serena is the quiet achiever that lets the engine control module know exactly where the crankshaft is and how fast it’s spinning. With that info, the ECU fires the injectors and coils at the right moment, keeps idle smooth, and on e-POWER models it also helps manage the engine’s generator operation. If that timing data goes missing or messy, the van can be a pig to start, stumble at idle, or throw a check engine light with codes like P0335/P0336.

There’s no set replacement interval in the service schedule, but it’s smart to give it a bit of attention during regular servicing. A visual once-over to make sure the connector is clean and the harness isn’t rubbed through goes a long way. Avoid blasting the area with a pressure washer and keep oil leaks in check, contamination can upset the sensor’s signal over time.

When replacement is needed, most owners notice one or more of the following:

• Hard starting or a no-start when hot
• Intermittent stalling or rough idle
• Poor fuel economy and reduced power
• Check engine light with crank sensor fault codes

On the C27, the crank angle sensor is mounted to the engine block where it reads a toothed reluctor on the crank or flywheel. Access is typically from underneath with the vehicle safely supported. Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining fastener, swap the sensor and O-ring if fitted, then refit and route the loom exactly as per factory. A scan tool clear of codes and a quick road test to confirm stable RPM signal and no new faults wraps it up.

Using genuine-spec parts is worth it. Cheap copies can have flaky signal quality that leads to random cut-outs. A trusted workshop or auto sparky can scope the signal to confirm diagnosis before parts are fitted, saving guesswork and dollars.

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2020 Nissan Serena?

It’s mounted to the engine block, positioned to read a toothed wheel on the crankshaft or flywheel. On most C27s, access is from under the vehicle with the splash shield removed. A workshop manual or experienced tech can pinpoint the exact spot for MR20DD versus HR12DE e-POWER layouts.

What are the signs the Serena’s crank angle sensor is failing?

Common tells include hard starting (especially hot), intermittent stalling, uneven idle, and a check engine light with codes like P0335. Some owners also notice sluggish performance and higher fuel use because the ECU can’t time spark and fuel precisely.

Should the crank angle sensor be replaced as routine maintenance?

No. It’s not a scheduled service item. During regular servicing, a quick inspection of the connector, wiring, and any nearby oil leaks is sufficient. Replacement is recommended only when faults are confirmed by scan data or oscilloscope testing.