What is a crankshaft position sensor?
The crankshaft position sensor is located near the engine's crankshaft, and relays information about the crankshaft’s position as it rotates.
How does the crankshaft position sensor work?
As the crankshaft spins, the position sensor magnetically reads its position. This information is constantly sent to the engine's computer for comparison with data from the camshaft position sensor.
When the two signals reach the computer, they must match; otherwise, the computer will think there is a mechanical error in the engine and will adjust some settings in response.
What are the symptoms related to a bad crankshaft position sensor?
When the computer senses the engine is out of time, it will turn on the check engine light, and the engine may start and stall, or fail to start at all. If the engine runs, it will run poorly, and get bad fuel mileage.
» LEARN MORE: Symptoms of a bad crankshaft position sensor
Can I drive with a crankshaft position sensor problem?
Driving a vehicle with a failed camshaft or crankshaft position sensor is usually impossible. If driving is possible, it is not recommended. If the sensor is functioning normally and reporting an error, the engine may be out of time or may have suffered a mechanical failure.
How often do crankshaft position sensors need to be replaced?
There's no set replacement interval for the crankshaft position sensor, and on many cars, the part will last the lifetime of the vehicle. It's not uncommon for it to fail, however, and the likelihood increases once you pass 100,000 miles.