Nissan TITAN (2004-2016) Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide
Experiencing stalling or a check engine light on your Titan? A faulty camshaft position sensor is a likely culprit.
- Your Titan has two camshaft sensors; a failure in either can cause stalling, no-starts, and a check engine light (P0340 or P0345).
- For this specific part, it is highly recommended to use an OEM or OEM-supplier brand like Hitachi or Denso to avoid premature failure.
- Replacement is a DIY-friendly job, requiring basic tools to access the sensors at the back of the engine.
- Replacing both sensors at once is recommended as preventative maintenance.
Is Your Titan Stalling or Running Rough?
A failing camshaft position sensor is a very common issue on the 2004-2016 Nissan Titan. When one of these sensors starts to go bad, it sends weak or incorrect signals to the engine computer. This can cause a range of problems from annoying to serious. You might notice the engine is hard to start, idles roughly, or even stalls unexpectedly while driving. If the sensor fails completely, the engine will shut off and will not restart until the sensor is replaced.
Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
- Check Engine Light: This is the most common sign. The computer will store a trouble code, typically P0340 (for Bank 1) or P0345 (for Bank 2).
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall at idle or, more dangerously, while you are driving.
- Hard Starting / No Start: The truck may crank for a long time before starting, or it may not start at all.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may shake or run unevenly when stopped.
- Poor Acceleration: You might feel a noticeable loss of power, and the truck may feel sluggish.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: An Honest Assessment
For critical electronic sensors like the camshaft position sensor on your Titan, using a quality part is extremely important. Many Titan owners and mechanics report problems with cheaper, low-grade aftermarket sensors. These can fail quickly or be dead-on-arrival, causing the same problems you were trying to fix. For best results, choose either an OEM sensor from the dealer or a sensor from a known OEM supplier like Hitachi or Denso. Brands like Delphi, Standard Ignition (SMP), and NGK are also reputable aftermarket choices that offer a good balance of quality and price. While budget-friendly options exist, they are a gamble for this specific part.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When shopping for a replacement, you'll find several brands available. Here’s how they generally stack up for your Titan:
- OEM Supplier (Best Choice): Hitachi is a known Tier 1 OE supplier for Nissan camshaft sensors. Choosing this brand often gets you the exact same quality as the dealer part without the higher price tag. Denso is also listed as an OE supplier.
- Top-Tier Aftermarket (Good Choice): Brands like Delphi, NGK, and Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition) have a strong reputation for producing reliable sensors that meet or exceed OE standards. Beck Arnley and Hella are also considered quality brands.
- Value Brands (Use with Caution): Other brands like Dorman, Walker, and various store brands offer a lower price point. However, for a sensor this critical to engine operation, saving a few dollars now could lead to more headaches later if the part fails prematurely.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Sensor) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $110 - $220 |
| New Aftermarket (OEM Supplier/Top-Tier) | $60 - $95 |
| New Aftermarket (Value) | $21 - $55 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
Installation Tip
The two camshaft sensors are located at the back of the engine against the firewall, one on the driver's side (Bank 2) and one on the passenger's side (Bank 1). They are each held in by a single 10mm bolt. Access is tight, but it is a straightforward job that can be done with basic hand tools like a small ratchet and a 10mm wrench. It's good practice to replace both sensors at the same time, especially if they are the original parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft sensors does my 2004-2016 Titan have?
Your Nissan Titan with the 5.6L V8 engine has two camshaft position sensors. One is for Bank 1 (passenger side) and the other is for Bank 2 (driver side).
What are the trouble codes for a bad camshaft sensor?
The most common codes are P0340 for Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1) and P0345 for Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 2).
Should I replace the crankshaft sensor at the same time?
It's not always necessary, but the camshaft and crankshaft sensors work together. Sometimes, a failing crankshaft sensor can cause similar symptoms or even trigger a camshaft sensor code. If your truck has high mileage, replacing the crankshaft sensor (located under the truck near the transmission bell housing) for preventative maintenance is a wise move.
Are there any recalls for the camshaft position sensor on my Titan?
As of now, there are no specific NHTSA recalls for the camshaft position sensors on the 2004-2016 Nissan Titan. Searches for recalls primarily show issues related to infotainment systems or airbags on different model years.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23731-4M50D 23731-AL61A 23731-1CA1B
The 5.6L V8 (VK56DE) engine in the 2004-2016 Titan uses two Hall-effect camshaft position sensors, one for each cylinder bank.
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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.
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