Two camshaft position sensors. The 2010 Maxima’s 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE) uses one CMP sensor for each cylinder bank to monitor cam timing and coordinate ignition and fuel injection.
Overview of CMP sensors in the 2010 Maxima
The camshaft position sensors (CMP sensors) read the position of each bank’s camshafts and feed that data to the engine control module. This helps ensure the engine’s timing remains correct for proper combustion, particularly in a dual overhead cam V6 like the VQ35DE in the Maxima.
Locations by bank
These sensors are mounted on the cylinder heads, one on each bank. The Bank 1 CMP sensor covers the camshafts on the Bank 1 side (typically the side containing cylinder 1), while the Bank 2 CMP sensor covers Bank 2 on the opposite head.
- Bank 1 CMP sensor — mounted on the left-hand cylinder head (Bank 1).
- Bank 2 CMP sensor — mounted on the right-hand cylinder head (Bank 2).
Having one sensor per bank allows the ECU to monitor each bank’s cam timing independently, which is important for a DOHC V6 with multiple camshafts.
Diagnostics and maintenance
If a CMP sensor begins to fail, drivers may notice symptoms such as a check engine light, rough idle, misfires, reduced performance, or stalling. Diagnostic trouble codes related to cam position sensor circuits may appear, indicating issues with one or both sensors or their wiring.
When diagnosing CMP sensor problems, technicians typically inspect the connectors, test the sensor signals with a scan tool, and check for damaged wiring or grounds. Replacement often involves ensuring proper alignment with the cam timing and resetting relevant readiness monitors.
Summary
The 2010 Nissan Maxima uses two camshaft position sensors—one for each cylinder bank—associated with the VQ35DE DOHC V6. These sensors monitor cam timing and support proper ignition and fuel delivery. If you encounter timing-related symptoms, inspect both CMP sensors and their wiring, as issues can originate from either bank.