Nissan Armada Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide for 2005-2016 Models
Having trouble starting your Armada or experiencing sudden stalls? Your crankshaft sensor might be the culprit.
- A failing crankshaft sensor can cause no-start conditions, sudden stalling, and a rough running engine.
- The most common trouble code associated with this failure is P0335.
- For Nissan vehicles, it is highly recommended to use an OEM-quality brand like Hitachi to ensure reliability and avoid repeat failures.
- Driving with a bad sensor is not recommended due to the risk of stalling in traffic and being left stranded.
Is Your Armada's Crankshaft Sensor Failing?
A bad crankshaft position sensor in the 2005-2016 Nissan Armada can cause some very noticeable and frustrating problems. Because this sensor is so important for engine timing, a failure can make your truck run poorly or not at all. The most common sign is the Check Engine Light turning on, often with the code P0335.
🎬 Watch: 7 common symptoms of a bad crankshaft sensorCommon Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft Sensor
- Engine Cranks but Won't Start: The starter turns the engine over, but it never fires up and runs.
- Sudden Stalling: The engine shuts off by itself while you are driving, often at low speeds or when you stop.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: Your Armada may shake or vibrate when stopped, and the engine can misfire because the timing is wrong.
- Poor Acceleration: The truck feels weak and doesn't accelerate like it should.
- Worse Gas Mileage: You may notice you're filling up the tank more often because the engine isn't running efficiently.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to engine sensors for Nissan vehicles, quality really matters. While saving money is great, a cheap, low-quality sensor can fail quickly or not work correctly right out of the box, causing the same problems all over again. Based on owner feedback and mechanic experience, it's best to stick with proven brands.
Brand Quality Tiers for Your Armada
- Tier 1: OEM or Better: Hitachi is widely known to be the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for Nissan. Choosing a Hitachi sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from a Nissan dealer, without the high dealer price. This is the most recommended option for reliability.
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket: Brands like Delphi, NGK, and Beck Arnley have a good reputation for producing quality electronic parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. They are a solid choice if a Hitachi sensor is not available.
- Tier 3: Standard/Economy: Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP), Walker Products, and Holstein offer a more budget-friendly option. While they are designed to fit and function, long-term reliability can sometimes be a mixed bag compared to Tier 1 brands.
Pro Tip: Many Nissan owners and mechanics strongly recommend using an OEM (Hitachi) sensor for both the crankshaft and camshaft positions. Using a cheaper brand can sometimes lead to more headaches and diagnostic time, costing you more in the long run.
🎬 See why mechanics recommend replacing both crankshaft and camshaft sensorsCost to Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
The cost can be broken down into the part itself and the labor to install it. This is generally not a very expensive repair.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $26 - $92 |
| New OEM Sensor | $120 - $170 |
| Shop Labor | $63 - $92 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $146 - $284 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my Armada with a bad crankshaft sensor?
It is strongly recommended that you do not. The engine could stall at any time, which is dangerous in traffic. If the sensor fails completely, your Armada will not start, leaving you stranded.
Where is the crankshaft sensor located on a 2005-2016 Armada?
The crankshaft position sensor is typically located on the lower part of the engine, near the transmission bell housing. It reads teeth on the flywheel or a reluctor wheel to determine the crankshaft's position.
Is replacing the crankshaft sensor a DIY job?
For many people with basic mechanical skills, yes. The sensor is usually held in by a single 10mm bolt and has an electrical connector. The main challenge is often just reaching it. If you are comfortable working under your vehicle, it's a manageable job that can be done in under an hour.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the sensor yourselfAre there any recalls for this part on my Armada?
There was an older Nissan recall (07V-527) for overheating crankshaft sensors that could cause stalling, but it did not specifically list the Armada. No active recalls are specifically for the 2005-2016 Armada crankshaft position sensor. However, it's always a good idea to check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle using its VIN on the NHTSA website.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23731-4M506 23731-4M50B 23731-7Y001 23731-AL61A
The sensor is typically a Hall-effect or magnetic type sensor that generates a voltage signal as a toothed reluctor wheel on the crankshaft rotates past it. It is a 3-pin sensor (power, ground, signal) and is secured by a single 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.
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