Things You'll Need
Ratchet
Set of 1/4-inch drive sockets
The purpose of the camshaft sensors on a 2002 Nissan Maxima is to signal the position of the No. 1 cylinder for fuel injection purposes primarily on start-up. They are hall effect sensors and located on the rear of both cylinder heads, mounted so they are indexed to the exhaust camshaft. The exhaust valve camshaft has squared-off teeth that act as the interrupter for the sensors. The camshaft sensors create an AC voltage signal for each tooth on the camshaft.
Step 1
Locate the camshaft sensors located on the rear of the engine. They are the black round sensor plugged into the rear of each cylinder head and very easy to identify. Depress the tab on the electrical connector and pull it off.
Step 2
Remove one sensor at a time and replace it with the new one after checking the number on the sensor so you have the right one. They are not interchangeable and could cause damage if installed on the wrong side. Remove the 10 mm bolt using a socket. Twist the sensor slightly as it is pulled out.
Step 3
Insert the new sensor and align the hole in the sensor bracket with the one in the cylinder head. Install and tighten the bolt until it is snug only. Plug the electrical connector into the camshaft sensor.