Also named crankshaft position sensor or CKS sensor, the crankshaft sensor is located close to the crankshaft and the flywheel. It relays information to the engine computer on the engine speed, i.e. on the rotational speed of the engine per minute. The engine speed impacts the gas consumption - depending on the rotational speed detected by the crankshaft sensor, the fuel injection will adapt. In addition, the crankshaft sensor determines the position of the crankshaft and its rotational speed.
The crankshaft sensor is an inductive sensor; it consists of a magnet with a coil around it. This sensor does not need to be electrically powered.
However, this type of sensor is seen less and less in modern cars and it tends to be replaced by hall effect sensors, which is more precise, but also more expensive. The way this sensor works is similar to the PMH sensor, but it needs to be electrically powered.
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Besides, we also perform additional checks on related car components to ensure optimum road safety.
What does a Crankshaft Position Sensor do on my engine?
How do you know there is something wrong with the Crankshaft Position Sensor?
- When the 'Check Engine' light on your dashboard is on.
- When the engine won't start or cuts out during operation.
- When the engine misfires.
- When the engine runs rough (a rough idle for example).
- When the car's fuel consumption is higher than usual.
When should you consider a Crankshaft Position Sensor replacement?
As the sensor is located inside the crankcase it is especially prone to deterioration. It can be affected by oil or the significant temperature fluctuations inside the engine. The sensor can, eventually, fail completely, meaning that the engine's ECU is not provided with the information to optimise the combustion process.
In turn this can lead to the fuel injection malfunctioning, preventing the appropriate amount of fuel to reach the engine to combust. It can lead the engine to misfire and run rough as well as cutting out or not starting at all. All leading to higher fuel consumption.
For optimal combustion cycles in the engine it is therefore important to service the crankshaft position sensor as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer. Professional and timely maintenance is essential to prevent further damage of other parts of the engine. Should you experience problems with a crankshaft position sensor, then it is advisable to have it inspected and, if necessary, have the sensor replaced.
What happens during a Crankshaft Position Sensor replacement?
- The mechanic will read the ECU for possible fault codes related to the sensor.
- The mechanic will inspect the sensor and ancillaries.
- If necessary, the mechanic will replace the sensor.
- The mechanic will check the system and will test drive the car to ensure proper operation of the engine.
- If necessary, the mechanic will make adjustments.
Symptoms of a failing crankshaft sensor
Many symptoms can indicate a bad crankshaft position sensor. A faulty sensor can cause the engine to stall suddenly when you’re driving at reduced speed, or prevent the engine to start. It can also make it difficult to start, as the amount of fuel needed won’t be injected at the right time.
This issue with injecting the right amount of fuel can also lead to acceleration problems while driving. When you try to speed up, the acceleration is uneven.
How to test a car crankshaft sensor?
In order to know if you’re driving with a bad crankshaft sensor, several checks can be carried out. First, you can test the crankshaft position sensor by using a multimeter in order to measure the electric resistance of the crank sensor: The value needs to be between 300 and 900 Ω (Ohm). This testing method is only possible if the sensor is an inductive sensor. To test with a hall effect sensor, you should use an oscilloscope which will measure the electronic signal.
Another option is to test the crankshaft position sensor with a diagnosis equipment. Once the tool is connected, the mechanic will scan your car system and will be able to let you know if the crankshaft sensor needs to be changed, if a cleaning would be enough, or if the problem is coming from another component of your car.
How to clean the crank sensor my self?
Sometimes, cleaning the crankshaft position sensor can be enough to make it work correctly again. In order to clean a dirty crank sensor, you will need to disconnect and unmount it. Then, you can clean it by using a special cleaning product on a cloth. This could be enough to reestablish the connection.
However, if the cleaning of the crankshaft position sensor is not enough, it will be necessary to have it replaced. In order to get the crank sensor of your car changed, get quotes on carfixgarage.co.uk and compare our garage prices.
Hence, stop searching for ‘crankshaft sensor repair near me’ and visit us today at Unit 4, 30-100 Colindeep Ln, London, NW9 6HB.
CarFix Garage are the leading experts in automotive parts repair including tyres, MOT , car servicing, collision repair and more. To find out more about crankshaft sensor repair in London NW, contact us online here or call us directly on 020 8200 8181
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