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 Sensor
Crankshaft sensor contains a pick-up coil and is located at front of crankshaft, near crankshaft pulley. A signal plate (rotor) is mounted on crankshaft pulley. As crankshaft rotates, protrusions on signal plate pass near pick-up coil. This induces AC voltage in pick-up coil. ECM senses this voltage signal and uses it to determine engine speed and crankshaft position.
The ECM may use input signals for determining ignition timing (spark advance) and for controlling fuel injection system, idle speed control system, heated oxygen sensor system and intake air control valve system.
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.