{"id":22477,"date":"2021-09-22T13:18:12","date_gmt":"2021-09-22T13:18:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dubizzle.com\/blog\/cars\/?p=22477"},"modified":"2021-09-22T13:18:14","modified_gmt":"2021-09-22T13:18:14","slug":"crankshaft-position-sensor","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dubizzle.com\/blog\/cars\/crankshaft-position-sensor\/","title":{"rendered":"All About Crankshaft Position Sensor"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The crankshaft position sensor is crucial for the function of important car engine parts. In many modern vehicles, engines will not start without adequately working crankshaft sensors. Crankshaft’s main function is to monitor the rotational speed and position of the engine. This information is transferred to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to manage fuel injection and regulate ignition. In this guide, we will provide you with complete information about the crankshaft position sensor and its working in vehicles.      <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Function of Crankshaft Position Sensor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Crankshaft position sensor functions on the principle of pulse detection and counting. The sensor consists of the following parts: stationary detector, electronic circuit and toothed disc attached with the shaft. When the shaft rotates the toothed disc also moves, every time the tooth passes by a stationary sensor it creates an electric pulse. The crankshaft sensor converts these pulses into rotation speed and forwards the information to the ECU. In a similar manner, the position of the engine can also be obtained by counting the number of pulses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Working
Crankshaft position sensor working in an engine with other parts<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Types of Crankshaft Position Sensor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The crankshaft system upgrades in modern vehicles as per the technological advancements. The engine crankshaft position sensors can be distinguished on the basis of their working and technology used. We have enlisted some widely used sensors in the cars. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inductive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The inductive crankshaft uses a magnet to measure rotations. Whenever a toothed disc rotates it creates changes in the magnetic field generating an alternating current and sending it to the ECU. The inductive sensor is located on the engine block or near to the crankshaft and timing belt<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

AC Output<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The AC output sensor works differently from all the other types of sensors. High frequency current is generated by the onboard controller to excite the coil. The disc attached with the camshaft has a slot in it. When the slot passes the coil it creates inductance and a signal is forwarded to the onboard controller.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hall Effect<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The hall effect type works similar to that of an inductive sensor. It measures the current when the toothed disc passes by the sensor. However, in place of a magnetic field, it sends digital signals (on or off) to the ECU. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Optical Position<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The optical position sensor is the latest version of crankshaft sensors. It uses a light-emitting diode (LED) and a photodiode to trace the optical marks on the shaft to measure the speed. These sensors are more accurate and equally effective for petrol and diesel engines<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What if it Malfunction?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The car engine performance is directly affected by the malfunctioning crankshaft sensor. In case of any improper working, inappropriate data will be communicated to the engine control unit. Due to this, the control unit starts depending upon its own memory to cater for changes. This can impact multiple functions of the engine and even cause ignition switch problems<\/a>. The symptoms of inadequate crankshaft sensors are visible and can be fixed.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Worn-out
Old crankshaft position sensor that requires repairing<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Malfunctioning Crankshaft Position Sensor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The crankshaft position sensor is an important part of an engine, any malfunctioning is immediately alarmed by various symptoms. These symptoms range from engine light indication to difficulty in starting a vehicle. See the following common symptoms of a bad crankshaft position sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fixing
Repairing an old crankshaft position sensor that malfunctions<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n