check this out:
http://consumeraffairs.com/news03/nissan_recall.html

what sensor is this? Is the maxima affected?

 

Yes, its the cam sensor i believe. Easy dealer fix

 

2002-2003 Maxima Engine Sensors

Applies to 2002 Maxima with the following Vehicle Identification Number ranges:
JN1DA*1**2T 000002 - 454681

Applies to 2003 Maxima with the following Vehicle Identification Number ranges:
JN1DA*1**3T 400002 - 515067

The number of Maxima vehicles potentially affected is approximately 118,207.
Please review the disclaimer located at the bottom of this page for more instruction.

Reason for Recall
On some 2002-2003 Maximas, there is a possibility that the engine might stop running while being driven if the crank position sensor fails. This may also result in the "Service Engine Soon" light coming on or reduced engine power. If the engine stops running while driving, this could result in a crash without warning.

What Nissan Will Do
Contact your Nissan dealer at your earliest convenience in order to arrange an appointment to have your vehicle repaired. If the "Service Engine Soon" light comes on, contact your dealer as soon as possible to have your vehicle inspected. Please bring this notice with you when you keep your service appointment. Instructions have been sent to your Nissan dealer. If the dealer fails, or is unable to make the necessary repairs free of charge, you may contact the National Consumer Affairs Office, Nissan North America, Inc. at P.O. Box 191, Gardena, California 90248-0191. The toll free number is 1-888-737-2647. You may also contact the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20590 or call the toll free Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

If you have paid to have a crank position sensor replaced prior to this campaign, you may be eligible for reimbursement of the related expense. Contact Nissan Consumer Affairs at the numbers listed above for additional information on how to obtain a reimbursement. Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.