A crankshaft sensor is an important part of your vehicle’s engine management system. It monitors the position of your crankshaft and uses that information to adjust spark timing and fuel injection. If your crankshaft sensor isn’t functioning properly, you could experience a number of problems with your engine and your vehicle. These symptoms include a check engine light, trouble starting the engine, and poor fuel economy.
How It Works
The crankshaft sensor relays the position and rotational speed of your engine to the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU). The ECU uses this information to keep your engine running smoothly. The sensor has three parts – the stationary detector, the toothed disc attached with the shaft and an electronic circuit (Fig-1). When the shaft rotates, teeth pass by the detector and create a series of electric pulses.
The number of these pulses varies depending on the system and is used to calculate the engine speed and position. This signal is then transmitted to the ECU for use in fuel injection and ignition systems.
Symptoms
A crankshaft sensor is a critical part of your vehicle’s engine system. When it fails, it can cause a number of issues including engine misfires, stalling and fuel economy problems. If the crankshaft sensor is failing, it will not communicate with your vehicle’s Electronic Control Module (ECM). This means that your engine’s performance may suffer as a result. Your vehicle’s onboard computer receives information from the sensor and then translates it into codes. The ECM then uses these codes to make adjustments to your vehicle’s performance, allowing you to drive as safely and efficiently as possible. When the crankshaft sensor is not sending accurate data to the ECM, it will typically show up as a check engine light. This is the best indicator that you have a problem with your Crankshaft Position Sensor.
Repair
The crankshaft sensor is a critical component in your car’s engine system. If it’s faulty, you might experience a variety of problems, including rough idling and engine vibration. This problem can be fixed by replacing the sensor with a new one. However, it’s important to find a mechanic who has the proper knowledge and tools to do this.
Another way to determine whether a sensor is working properly is by testing it with a test meter. This will check for an internal resistance, potential short circuit to frame, and the signal it’s sending to your engine. A faulty crankshaft sensor is likely to cause other engine issues, so it’s important to address any problems that occur with the sensor before they become more serious. Then, you’ll know exactly what’s going on and how to fix the issue.
Replacement
If you need crankshaft sensor replacement, you’ll want to find a trusted mechanic who can do the job quickly and efficiently. A good shop will take the time to explain the diagnosis and replacement in detail, as well as offer a warranty for any work they do so visit here SuncentAuto.com. To start the repair, remove the mounting bolt that holds the sensor in place using a socket wrench or a 10mm short socket. This should be fairly easy, especially if the vehicle has been in for an oil change recently.
Once the sensor has been removed, clean the area around the sensor mount and lubricate it with engine oil before installing the new one. Be sure to put a new O ring seal on the new sensor, too. After replacing the old sensor, you should connect it to its electrical connector and start the vehicle to make sure it’s working properly. If it doesn’t, the next step is to check its wiring for any loose connections or other problems.
Wrapping It Up
The crankshaft sensor is a critical part of your engine’s fuel injection and ignition system. It monitors the exact position of your engine’s crankshaft and generates data that helps the onboard computer synchronize all of its essential functions. When the crankshaft sensor fails, your car’s engine may struggle to start and drive well. You might also notice rough idling or grinding noises.
