Nissan Maxima Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide (2010-2023)
Experiencing stalling, a rough idle, or a check engine light in your Maxima? A failing camshaft position sensor is a likely culprit.
- A failing camshaft sensor is a very common cause of stalling, rough idle, and check engine lights (P0340, P0345) on the 2010-2023 Maxima.
- For reliable, long-term results, choose an OEM (Nissan) or OEM-supplier (Hitachi, Denso) brand sensor; cheaper parts are known to fail prematurely.
- This is an easy DIY repair for most owners, requiring only basic tools and typically taking less than 30 minutes.
- Consider replacing both (or all) camshaft sensors at the same time, as they are exposed to the same conditions and tend to fail around the same time.
Is Your Maxima Stalling or Running Rough?
A faulty camshaft position sensor is a very common issue on the 2010-2023 Nissan Maxima. These sensors read the rotation of the engine's camshafts, telling the computer when to fire the spark plugs and fuel injectors. When one starts to fail, it can send incorrect signals or no signal at all, leading to noticeable driving problems. 🎬 Watch a breakdown of common bad camshaft sensor symptoms. The most common signs are the check engine light coming on, the engine stalling unexpectedly, a rough or unstable idle, and difficulty starting the car. In some cases, the car may enter a "fail-safe" or "limp" mode, where it stays in a high gear and has reduced power to prevent engine damage.
Common Diagnostic Codes
If your check engine light is on, a code scanner will likely show one of these codes related to a camshaft sensor failure:
- P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
- P0345: Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 2)
Bank 1 refers to the cylinder head closer to the firewall (rear), while Bank 2 is the cylinder head closer to the radiator (front).
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to electronic sensors for Nissan vehicles, quality matters. Many owners and mechanics report that using cheap, low-quality aftermarket sensors can lead to the problem returning quickly or the new part failing right out of the box. For best results, it is highly recommended to use either genuine OEM parts or parts from the original equipment manufacturer.
- Premium Brands (OEM Supplier): Hitachi is widely reported to be the original equipment manufacturer for Nissan. Choosing a Hitachi sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from the dealer. Denso and Delphi are also highly reputable brands known for their quality electronics and are considered reliable alternatives.
- Mid-Grade Brands: Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP) and NGK/NTK offer a good balance of quality and price. They are generally considered reliable replacements.
- Economy Brands: While brands like Dorman, URO Parts, or other store-brand sensors are available at a lower price, they have a mixed reputation in owner forums. Some owners have had success, but many have experienced premature failures. It may be worth spending more on a higher-quality sensor to avoid doing the job twice.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Your Maxima's V6 engine has at least two camshaft position sensors. If one has failed due to age and heat, the other is likely not far behind. To ensure reliability and save time, it is often recommended to replace both sensors at the same time. Some models may even have four sensors (intake and exhaust for each bank).
How Much Does a Replacement Cost?
Replacing a camshaft position sensor is a relatively inexpensive repair. The part itself is affordable, and the labor is minimal for a professional mechanic.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Sensor (each) | $90 - $160 |
| New Aftermarket Sensor (each) | $28 - $145 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Cost estimates are based on national averages and may vary by location and specific vehicle model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft sensors does my 2010-2023 Maxima have?
The Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE) engine has at least two camshaft position sensors, one for each cylinder bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2). Some later models may have four sensors—an intake and exhaust sensor for each bank. It's important to verify the exact number for your specific year.
🎬 See exactly where the camshaft sensors are located on your engine.Is Hitachi the OEM sensor for Nissan?
Yes, Hitachi is widely known to be the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for many of Nissan's electronic parts, including camshaft position sensors. Choosing a Hitachi-branded sensor is often equivalent to getting a dealer part without the dealer markup.
Can I replace a camshaft position sensor myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly repair. The sensors are typically held in by a single 10mm bolt and have an easy-to-access electrical connector. The front sensor (Bank 2) is very easy to reach, while the rear sensor (Bank 1) near the firewall can be a bit tighter but is still manageable for most home mechanics.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace your Maxima's sensors.Was there a recall for the camshaft position sensor on the Maxima?
There was a recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 03V-455) for older Nissan models, including some early 2000s Maximas, due to faulty solder joints in the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. However, this specific recall does not apply to the 2010-2023 model years. Always check for any recalls specific to your vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA or a Nissan dealer.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23731-JA11B 23731-JA11A 23731-AL61D
The Nissan Maxima VQ35DE engine uses Hall-effect sensors. Bank 1 (rear/firewall) and Bank 2 (front/radiator) sensors may have different shapes (straight vs. angled) and are not always interchangeable. Always verify the correct part for the specific location.
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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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