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DTC codes / Nissan codes / P1366

P1366 · NissanTDC2 Sensor Intermittent

P1366 on a Nissan means the engine control module (ECM) has detected an intermittent signal from the TDC2 sensor, which is the second top dead center reference sensor used to identify cylinder position during starting and running. The ECM compares this signal with the camshaft and crankshaft position signals and flags the code when the TDC2 input drops out or becomes erratic for a brief period.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeNissan specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Intermittent hard starting or extended cranking, especially when the engine is hot
  • Occasional engine stumble or misfire at idle or under light load
  • Rough running or hesitation during acceleration that comes and goes
  • In rare cases, the engine may stall unexpectedly and restart after a short wait

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty TDC2 sensor (internal intermittent failure due to heat or age)
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring harness connector at the TDC2 sensor
  3. Chafed or broken wires in the sensor circuit between the sensor and ECM
  4. Poor electrical connection at the ECM connector
  5. Metal debris or damage on the sensor tip or reluctor wheel
  6. Incorrect sensor air gap or loose sensor mounting
  7. Rarely, an internal ECM fault affecting the sensor input circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for stored codes and record freeze-frame data to confirm P1366 is current and not history
  2. Visually inspect the TDC2 sensor, its connector, and the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
  3. Measure the sensor resistance and compare it to the Nissan specification for your engine
  4. Check for a clean and secure sensor mounting and correct air gap to the reluctor wheel
  5. Backprobe the sensor signal circuit at the ECM and monitor for an intermittent signal while wiggling the harness
  6. If the signal is erratic and wiring is good, replace the TDC2 sensor with a known-good unit
  7. Clear codes and perform a road test to verify the repair and ensure the code does not return

TDC2 sensor faults that fool good technicians

  • A intermittent TDC2 signal often does not set a hard fault until the engine is at operating temperature, so a cold-engine resistance test can pass even on a failing sensor.
  • The TDC2 sensor shares its reference wheel with the crankshaft position sensor on many Nissan engines, so a damaged reluctor tooth can mimic a sensor failure and trigger P1366 without any sensor fault.
  • Wiring harness chafing near the exhaust manifold or behind the timing cover is a common hidden cause that only shows up when the engine moves under load or heat.
  • Some aftermarket sensors have a different internal resistance curve that causes intermittent signals even when new, so sticking with an OEM-quality part avoids repeat comebacks.
  • P1366 can be set by a poor ground connection at the engine block, which affects the sensor return circuit and makes the ECM see a dropout without any sensor or wire fault.

Can I keep driving with P1366?

You can usually drive the vehicle short distances if the only symptom is the warning light, but avoid heavy acceleration, towing, or long trips until the fault is repaired. If the engine starts stumbling, stalling, or becomes hard to start, stop driving and have it diagnosed promptly to prevent a no-start condition.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Nissan vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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