How To Diagnose Bad Crankshaft Position Sensor: Symptoms And Causes

The crankshaft sensor (also known as crankshaft speed sensor or TDC position sensor) is one of the most important sensors for the engine. The role of this inconspicuous sensor is quite simple, which is to inform the engine control unit about the position of the crankshaft. With this single piece of information, the control unit always knows when to add fuel and when to initiate ignition. Additionally, the crankshaft sensor is used to determine the engine's RPM.

If the crankshaft sensor is defective, various problems can occur, ranging from the engine stalling to a failure to start the engine. The latter is often the case when the engine starts effortlessly in a cold state but does not start at all when warm.

Symptoms of a defective crankshaft position sensor

• Problems starting the engine;
• Engine stalling;
• Uneven engine running, severe jolting;
• The engine control light turns on
• Code P0335 stored in the error memory.

Causes of a defective crankshaft sensor

• Short circuit;
• Damaged sensor wheel;
• Heavy contamination.

What is the cost of replacing a crankshaft sensor?

A crankshaft sensor can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, with the higher price range generally applying to original parts from well-known manufacturers (Bosch, Hella, etc.). The replacement is rarely time-consuming and typically takes just under an hour, depending on the brand and model of the vehicle.