If you own a car, then you know that one of the most important parts is the crankshaft. Without it, your engine wouldn’t work. In fact, it’s so important that manufacturers have required it to be installed in all new vehicles since 2007. However, if your car doesn’t have a crankshaft sensor, then you may not be aware of this critical safety feature. What is a crankshaft sensor and why is it so important? Read on to find out. ###
What is a Crankshaft Position Sensor?
A crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is a type of sensor used to monitor the position of the crankshaft in a engine. This allows the engine computer to determine when the crankshaft is at its correct location and correct rpm, and can thus optimize engine performance.
How Does a Crankshaft Position Sensor Work?
There are many factors that can affect a car’s engine performance, but one of the most common is incorrect crankshaft position. By sensing the position of the crankshaft, a Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) can help to ensure that your engine is operating at its best.
A CPS is basically an electronic sensor that uses a magnetic field to determine the position of the crankshaft. When the sensor detects a change in this field, it can calculate the angle and direction of movement, which then allows you to determine your car’s engine RPM. This information is then used by your car’s computer to adjust various settings, such as fuel injection timing and air/fuel mixture levels.
Since incorrect crankshaft position can cause all sorts of problems with your car’s engine, it’s important to have a CPS installed if you plan on keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Fortunately, installing a CPS isn’t particularly difficult – in fact, most cars come equipped with them already! All you need is some basic mechanics knowledge and some tools – like a wrench set and screwdriver – which you likely already have lying around your garage. If not, most auto parts stores also carry affordable CPS installation kits.
So whether you’re just curious about how CPSs work or you’re actually in need of one for your own vehicle, be sure to check out our blog for more helpful information on this fascinating topic.
How to Install a Crankshaft Position Sensor
If your vehicle exhibits a loss of power, especially while driving at slow speeds, it’s likely that the crankshaft position sensor is not functioning properly. A crankshaft position sensor measures the angle of the crankcase and transmits this information to the engine control unit. If the sensor is not working, the ECU may misinterpret low crankcase angles as being indicative of a problem with the engine itself. In most cases, replacing the crankshaft position sensor will resolve the issue. Here are instructions on how to replace a crankshaft position sensor on most makes and models of vehicles:
1. Remove the rear seatback by removing two screws in either side of the seatback frame.
2. Gently pull out on each side of the fabric cover until it separates from the seatback frame.
3. Locate and remove the eight Torx screws securing the bracket that holds the crankshaft position sensor in place (see circled area in image).
4. Carefully pull out on both sides of the bracket while maintaining its orientation so that it can be reinstalled in reverse order once it’s free from its mountings (see circled area in image).
5. Install a new bracket by screwing it into place using four Torx screws (see circled area in image). Make sure to orient it correctly relative to its predecessor before tightening down all four screws.
6. Reinstall fabric cover
Conclusion
If you’re having trouble with your car not starting or losing power, it’s likely that the crankshaft position sensor is malfunctioning. This article will show you how to install and test the crankshaft position sensor on a car. If the sensor is malfunctioning, replacing it will fix the problem.