Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor
Hall Effect type crankshaft position sensor is mounted on the left rear side of transaxle bellhousing. Sensor reads groups of 4 slots on the outer edge of flywheel/flexplate. There are 2 groups on 2.5L.
The signal generated provides engine speed and crankshaft position information to PCM. CKP sensor tells PCM that a spark or fuel injection event is to be required. Signals from CKP and camshaft position sensors are used by PCM to differentiate between fuel injection and spark events. CKP sensor signal is also used to synchronize fuel injectors with their respective cylinders.
When a flywheel/flexplate slot passes the crankshaft position sensor magnet, output voltage of the Hall Effect sensor goes high (5 volts). When the metal between the slots is aligned with sensor, output voltage goes low (.3 volt). This high/low voltage signal is sent to PCM each time one of the slots passes the crankshaft position sensor.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.