NTK crankshaft position sensor
What are the symptoms of a bad crank position sensor?
A bad crankshaft position sensor can cause a variety of engine performance issues. Here are some common crankshaft position sensor symptoms:
- Difficulty Starting the Engine: The engine may crank but struggle to start, or it might not start at all.
- Engine Stalling: The engine might suddenly stall while idling or at low speeds, which can be quite dangerous in traffic.
- Misfiring: You might experience misfires in one or more cylinders, causing rough running and loss of power.
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light will likely illuminate, indicating a crank sensor problem with the sensor. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the crankshaft sensor may be stored in the ECM.
- Poor Acceleration: There might be a noticeable lag or hesitation when you try to accelerate, making the vehicle less responsive.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: The engine might consume more fuel than usual, leading to poor fuel economy.
- Engine Vibrations: The engine could run roughly or vibrate more than normal, indicating incorrect timing.
Since the crankshaft position sensor provides critical information about the engine’s position and rotational speed, its failure can disrupt the engine’s management system, affecting ignition timing and fuel injection.
Can I drive my car with a bad crankshaft position sensor?
While it’s technically possible to drive with a bad crankshaft position sensor, it’s not advisable. A failing sensor can cause several issues that might compromise your safety and the performance of your vehicle:
- Engine Stalling: The engine could stall unexpectedly, especially at low speeds or while idling, which can be dangerous in traffic.
- Difficulty Starting: You might struggle to start your engine, or it may not start at all, leaving you stranded.
- Poor Performance: The engine may misfire, run roughly, or have poor acceleration, making your vehicle less responsive.
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light will likely be on, indicating a problem that should be addressed.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: The engine may consume more fuel than usual, leading to poor fuel economy.
Driving with a failing crankshaft position sensor can lead to more serious engine damage over time. It’s best to have the sensor checked and replaced as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle runs safely and efficiently.
How do I reset a crank sensor?
Resetting a crankshaft position sensor typically involves using an OBD-II scanner to clear any stored trouble codes and relearn the sensor’s position. Here’s a general guide:
Steps to Reset a Crankshaft Position Sensor:
- Connect an OBD-II Scanner: Plug the scanner into your vehicle’s diagnostic port, usually located under the dash on the driver’s side – Vehicle Help.
- Turn Off Accessories: Make sure all accessories (radio, lights, etc.) are turned off.
- Start the Engine: Start your vehicle and let it idle until it reaches the normal operating temperature.
- Enter Diagnostic Mode: Use the scanner to enter the special function menu and select the crankshaft relearn or reset option.
- Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions, which may include steps like turning the ignition on and off, applying the brake, and idling the engine.
- Accelerate and Maintain Speed: Some vehicles may require you to accelerate to a certain speed (e.g., 55 mph) and maintain it for a few minutes.
- Clear Codes: Clear any trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer.
- Test Drive: Take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and the engine is running smoothly.
What code will a bad crankshaft sensor throw?
A bad crankshaft position sensor typically triggers the P0335 trouble code, which stands for “Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction”. This code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) is not receiving proper signals from the crankshaft position sensor.
