Nissan Xterra Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide (2000-2015)
Understanding why your Xterra is stalling and how to choose the right replacement crankshaft position sensor.
- Sudden stalling is a classic sign of a failing crankshaft sensor on the Xterra, often triggering code P0335.
- For best results, choose an OEM (Nissan) or OEM-supplier (Hitachi) brand sensor; these trucks are sensitive to sensor quality.
- The sensor is located on the passenger side near the transmission on 2005-2015 models and requires removing the wheel/fender liner to access.
- Consider replacing both camshaft sensors at the same time as the crankshaft sensor to prevent future issues.
Is Your Xterra Stalling or Hard to Start? It Could Be the Crankshaft Sensor.
If your 2000-2015 Nissan Xterra suddenly stalls while driving, has trouble starting, or the engine runs rough, a failing crankshaft position sensor is a very common cause. This small sensor plays a huge role in keeping your engine running smoothly. When it starts to fail, it sends incorrect signals—or no signal at all—to the engine's computer, leading to some serious and potentially dangerous driving issues.
Known Issue: Stalling While Driving
A widely reported problem for the second-generation Xterra (2005-2015) is the engine suddenly shutting off while driving, sometimes at highway speeds. This is often traced directly back to a faulty crankshaft position sensor. The check engine light will typically come on, and a code scan will usually show P0335.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Matters
When it comes to critical electronic sensors on Nissan vehicles, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. Many experienced Xterra owners and mechanics report that budget-friendly, no-name aftermarket sensors can be unreliable, fail quickly, or not work at all right out of the box. For the VQ series engine in the 2005-2015 Xterra, the system is known to be particularly sensitive to sensor quality.
Brand Quality Tiers for Your Xterra
- OEM Supplier (Best Choice): Hitachi is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Nissan's crankshaft sensors. Choosing a Hitachi sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from a Nissan dealer without the higher price tag. They are widely recommended by Xterra owners for their reliability.
- High-Quality Aftermarket: Brands like NTK, Delphi, and Standard Ignition (SMP) have a strong reputation for producing reliable sensors that meet or exceed OEM standards. These are solid choices if a Hitachi part is not available.
- Standard/Budget Aftermarket: Brands like Dorman or other store brands can be a mixed bag. While they offer a lower price, some owners have reported premature failures. They may be suitable for a temporary fix or if budget is the primary concern, but for long-term reliability, sticking with an OEM-level brand is recommended.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
Many mechanics recommend replacing the crankshaft position sensor and both camshaft position sensors at the same time, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. These sensors wear at a similar rate, and a failing sensor can sometimes cause communication issues with the others. Replacing all three can save you from doing the job again in the near future.
🎬 See how to replace both cam and crank sensors together.How Much Does a Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost?
The cost depends on whether you do it yourself or have a shop perform the work. The part itself is relatively inexpensive, but labor can add up.
| Cost Category | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $21.50 - $57.53 |
| New OEM Part | $58 - $115 |
| Shop Labor | $140 - $292 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $242 - $393 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on the Nissan Xterra?
The location varies slightly by generation. For the 2005-2015 (2nd Gen) with the 4.0L V6, it's on the passenger side of the engine, at the back where the engine meets the transmission. You typically need to remove the front passenger wheel and the plastic inner fender liner to access it. For the 2000-2004 (1st Gen) with the 3.3L V6, it's located on the driver's side, on the transmission bellhousing, often behind a small heat shield.
Was there a recall for the Xterra crankshaft position sensor?
Nissan issued recalls for crankshaft position sensors on some models around 2003 and 2007, primarily for 4-cylinder engines in cars like the Altima and Sentra. While the Xterra itself was not specifically named in these major crankshaft sensor recalls, it was part of a 2010 recall (NHTSA #10V517000) for an IPDM relay that could cause similar stalling issues. Due to sensor communication issues, it's often recommended to replace cam and crank sensors together.
Can I replace this sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with basic tools. For the more common 2005-2015 models, the main challenge is accessing the sensor, which requires removing the wheel and fender liner. The sensor itself is held by a single 10mm bolt. The job is considered to have a difficulty of about 3 or 4 out of 10.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide for the 4.0L V6 engine.What is the main trouble code for a bad crankshaft sensor?
The most common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction is P0335. If you see this code, the sensor is the most likely culprit, but the wiring should also be inspected for damage.
🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix the P0335 error code.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23731-EA20D 23731-EA20C 23731-3S500 23731-AL61A 23731-AL61D
Magnetic sensor that reads teeth on the flywheel or reluctor wheel to determine crankshaft speed and position. Held in place by a single 10mm bolt.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Xterra:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Xterra Stalling or Hard to Start? It Could Be the Crankshaft Sensor.
- Known Issue: Stalling While Driving
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Matters
- Brand Quality Tiers for Your Xterra
- Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
- How Much Does a Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions
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