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.
Sensor, Crankshaft Position: Operation: Operation
The crankshaft position and engine speed are detected through a (hall effect) signal. The distance between the crankshaft position sensor and the gaps of the tone wheel is fixed by the installation position.
When the crankshaft rotates, an alternating voltage is generated in the crankshaft position sensor by the gaps of the tone wheel located behind the flex plate.
In this case, the metal portion of the tone wheel generates a positive voltage pulse and the gap in the tone wheel a negative voltage pulse. The distance from the positive to the negative voltage peak equals the length of the gap.
NO RELATED
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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.