How to Fix the Camshaft Sensor on a Nissan Sentra

The camshaft sensor in a Nissan Sentra is located in the distributor with the crankshaft sensor. When the distributor cap is removed, they both can be seen---they look like two discs resembling a CD. These sensors are not serviceable, and the distributor needs to be replaced to correct the situation. The usual cause for crank or camshaft failures is from oil infiltrating the distributor through the shaft seal.

Things You'll Need

  • Set of wrenches
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Remove the distributor cap by removing the screws using the Phillips screwdriver.

  • Disconnect the electrical connections on the side of the distributor by squeezing the tabs and pulling the connectors apart.

  • Remove the distributor by removing the two nuts at the adjustment points where the distributor is attached to the cylinder head. Use a wrench to remove these nuts. Before removing the distributor, make a note of the direction the rotor is pointing so that the new distributor can be installed the same way.

  • Pull the distributor off the studs. Install the new distributor in the same way with the rotor oriented in the same direction as the previous one.

  • Install all remaining parts in reverse order of removal.