As new generations of vehicles are introduced in the automotive world, they're not always better, but that was not the case with the 1995 Nissan Maxima. Having been around since 1989, the Maxima has gone through a number of changes, including the popular redesign for the fourth generation, including the 1995 model. The changes were not only cosmetic, they also included a new 190-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6. Though this engine is electronically controlled, it's does not a daunting task to change the camshaft position sensor.
Park your Maxima on a flat surface. Apply the parking brake to keep your car from moving. Turn the engine off and remove the key from the ignition. Open the hood. Allow the engine to cool.
Locate the camshaft position sensor at the rear of the valve cover that is closest to the radiator. It will have four wires- black, black/white, grey/black and grey/yellow. Remove the connector on the sensor by pressing on the locking tab with your finger and pulling the connector from the sensor. Remove the two bolts from the sensor with the appropriate ratchet and socket. Remove the sensor by twisting it gently and pulling it out of the engine.
Apply a small amount of oil to the seal on the new sensor. Install the sensor by pressing it into the mounting hole while making sure it aligns with the notch in the back of the camshaft. Make sure that the sensor fits flush into the engine. Install the two bolts by hand to prevent cross-threading, and torque them to 12 foot-pounds with the torque wrench. Install the electrical connector by pressing it into the sensor until you feel it snap into place.
