Common Engine Problem: How to Spot a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor (Warning Signs)

crankshafts

Crankshaft is a moving piece of the internal combustion engine. Its key function is to shift the straight movement of the cylinder into revolving movement. The piston is associated with the crankshaft through the attaching rods. The crankshaft is mounted inside the cylinder.

A Crankshaft Position Sensor is positioned near the crankshaft that is found on the frontside of the engine. This can also differ from one vehicle to another. This component helps your engine to run smoothly. It gauges the position of the crankshaft as well as the crankshaft’s rotational speed. The crankshaft position sensor transfers this data to the vehicle’s ECU or engine control unit.  The ECU then utilises that data, alongside contributions from different sensors, to control the systems – ignition timing and fuel injection. This keeps all the pieces of the motor very much coordinated and working in show. The crankshaft position sensor is basic to a smooth-working engine.

There are 2 main causes for a faulty crankshaft sensor: overheating and circuit problems — which could result to costly repairs and lasting vehicle damage that could stop your vehicle from working. Normally, before this happens, you’ll be able to spot some warning signs saying you have a failing or problematic crankshaft position sensor that tells you to bring it to your trusted mechanic.

 

  1. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle

The crankshaft position sensor checks the position and speed of the crankshaft and also plays a role in starting the vehicle, a failure on its part will cause the engine to have a difficulty in starting the vehicle or the engine may not event start at all.

 

  1. Check Engine Light Indicator Is On

Probably the easiest way of identifying a problem with the crankshaft position sensor is by looking at the Check Engine Light in your vehicle’s dashboard. If there is a problem with the crankshaft position sensor, the Check Engine Light will be on.

It is also important to note that there are many other issues which causes the Check Engine Light to be on that is why you will need to have this checked by your trusted mechanic.

 

  1. Uneven Acceleration

Because there is an imprecise info originating from the crankshaft position sensor, the motor control unit can’t make the acclimations to ignition timing and fuel injection as the engine speed accelerates. Slow or lopsided increase in speed can result from an absence of precision and make it hard to keep up a steady speed.

 

  1. Engine Vibrating

If you are feeling abnormal vibrations, shaking or hearing a sputtering sound from your engine, chances are there is a problem with the crankshaft position sensor. Have it checked by your mechanic as soon as possible.

 

  1. Decrease in Mileage

Because of an insufficient timing info from the crankshaft position sensor, the fuel injectors won’t siphon gas into the engine effectively. The engine will utilise a greater number of gas than it needs on short and lengthy drives, diminishing fuel ingestion. Have your mechanic investigate the sensor — as lacking mileage can happen from different issues too

 

The crankshaft position sensor is vital to your engine functioning properly Issues with the crankshaft sensor can rapidly prompt issues that influence the drivability of the vehicle. Therefore, in the off chance that you presume your crankshaft position sensor has an issue, have the vehicle checked by an expert as soon as possible. They will have the option to analyse your vehicle and supplant crankshaft position sensor, if essential.

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