How Long Does a Crankshaft Position Sensor Last?

The crankshaft position sensor monitors the rotational speed and position of the crankshaft in the engine. It reports this information to the engine management system to control the ignition system timing. The crankshaft position sensor is used with the camshaft position sensor to monitor the valves and pistons in the engine, which are an important part of the engine’s variable valve timing. Furthermore, the crankshaft position sensor synchronizes the engine once it starts, letting the management system know when to send the fuel.

The crankshaft position sensor needs to be in great condition in order to give an accurate reading. Therefore, if something is off with the sensor, the engine may exhibit different problems. Since the crankshaft position sensor is used every time the vehicle is running, there may be damage to the wheel and pin, magnetic problems, and wiring problems that can occur throughout the vehicle’s lifetime.

Wheel and pin damage happens when any of the wheel’s teeth are broken, worn, or snapped off. When this happens, the pattern of pulses that the sensor measures will be off and the sensor will become confused. The magnet part of the crankshaft position sensor can attract metal shavings that are in the engine compartment. This can throw off the sensor’s measurements as well. In addition, they can bridge between the wheel and the sensor, meaning they become closer together which also provides the wrong measurement. Wiring problems can happen anytime electricity is involved, and that is true with the crankshaft position sensor as well. The circuitry that connects the sensor to the computer’s control module can burn out. The sensor may not be able to read a signal at all if this happens.

Since the crankshaft position sensor can wear or break over time, it will need to be replaced. Watch for the following signs that indicate this is becoming an issue:

  • Poor fuel economy due to the engine using more gas
  • Engine misfiring because of the combustion being disrupted
  • Acceleration problems because the vehicle’s computer cannot make the proper adjustments
  • Check Engine Light
  • Difficult starting because the engine is not getting the proper amount of fuel
  • Stalling at low speeds because the fuel injectors are not providing enough fuel

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, have a mechanic take a look at your car. They make is simple to have your crankshaft position sensor replaced because their mobile mechanics will come to your home or office to fix your car.


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Jeremy

21 years of experience
802 reviews
Jeremy
21 years of experience
Lincoln Town Car V8-4.6L - Crankshaft Position Sensor - Lake Worth, Florida
Knowledgeable, courteous and timely. Timely updates as to arrival times, etc. Kept appt. in the middle of the latest foul weather- as scheduled. Solved a problem with our 97 Towncar our local shop hadn't fixed after 3 visits and including one tow. Great experience and worth every penny.
Dodge Avenger - Crankshaft Position Sensor - West Palm Beach, Florida
My car broke down and was towed back to my house late on Saturday but I was able to set up an appointment with Jeremy for Sunday afternoon. Jeremy was very communicative, he showed up exactly when he said he would, he was easy to work with and he was very clear about what we needed. He worked with us and my car was fixed in a matter of hours. Very thankful for YourMechanic and Jeremy, our mechanic.

Jean

16 years of experience
157 reviews
Jean
16 years of experience
Dodge Durango V8-4.7L - Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement - Tampa, Florida
Very professional and did a great job, highly recommended using this service instead of going to a shop.

Victor

18 years of experience
23 reviews
Victor
18 years of experience
Hyundai Sonata V6-3.3L - Crankshaft Position Sensor - Fresno, California
He was quick and helpful. He gave me tips on how to spot potential and upcoming repairs/replacement issues to keep my Sonata running longer. I would definitely recommend Victor to anyone having mechanical problems he is a lifesaver

Irven

12 years of experience
73 reviews
Irven
12 years of experience
Jeep Compass L4-2.4L - Crankshaft Position Sensor - Owings Mills, Maryland
He was on time and timely. No long drawn out mechanic speak explanations. Really appreciated his customer-friendly breakdown.

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