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What are the symptoms of a failing crank sensor?

A failing crank sensor can cause a range of issues with your vehicle's engine performance. The crank sensor, also known as the crankshaft position sensor, is a critical component that monitors the position and speed of the engine's crankshaft, providing this information to the vehicle's computer. When the crank sensor starts to fail, it can lead to various noticeable symptoms that should not be ignored.


Common Symptoms of a Failing Crank Sensor



  • Engine Misfiring or Stalling: A malfunctioning crank sensor can cause the engine to misfire, hesitate, or even stall unexpectedly. This is because the engine control unit (ECU) is not receiving accurate information about the crankshaft position, leading to improper fuel and ignition timing.

  • Check Engine Light Illumination: When the crank sensor is failing, the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system will detect the issue and trigger the check engine light on the dashboard. This is the ECU's way of alerting the driver to a problem that requires attention.

  • Rough Idling or Difficulty Starting: A faulty crank sensor can cause the engine to run rough, especially at idle, or make it difficult to start the vehicle. This is because the ECU is not receiving the correct information about the crankshaft position, leading to inconsistent fuel delivery and ignition timing.

  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency: As the crank sensor deteriorates, the engine's performance and efficiency can suffer, leading to a noticeable decrease in fuel economy.

  • Engine Stalling or Shutting Off: In severe cases, a failing crank sensor can cause the engine to stall or shut off completely, especially at low speeds or when the vehicle is idling.


It's important to address any issues with the crank sensor as soon as possible, as a malfunctioning sensor can lead to further damage to the engine and other components if left unresolved.

What are the 7 symptoms of a bad camshaft position sensor?


Bad Camshaft Sensor Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light. The ECM constantly checks the sensor's health.
  • Engine Failing to Start. The car fails to start, even with the starting system working correctly.
  • Vehicle Stalling.
  • Rough Idling and Misfire.
  • Reduced Engine Performance.
  • Poor Fuel Economy.
  • Shifting Problems.
  • Smell of Fuel.



How do I reset a crank sensor?


Shift your car to part throttle and accelerate to 55mph. Drive around and maintain a speed of 55mph for 10 minutes to let your engine reach its operating temperature. Drive around at 55mph for 5 more minutes. Decelerate and drive at a speed of 45mph for 25 seconds but do not use the brakes.



What is the difference between a camshaft sensor and a crankshaft sensor?


The Camshaft sensor determines which cylinder is firing to establish injector synchronization and coil firing sequence in DIS systems. Crankshaft sensors set ignition timing, supply the RPM signal, and determine engine speed.



Will a car run with a bad crank sensor?


Most modern cars will run in a limited fashion with a bad camshaft sensor. But most will not run with a bad crankshaft position sensor. Those few cars that can run will almost always be in ``Limp Home Mode''. Basically, engine RPM's will be limited, and the car will seem very weak.



What code will a bad crankshaft sensor throw?


What Does the P0335 Code Mean? The OBD-II code P0335 is a generic diagnostic trouble code that stands for “Crankshaft Position “A” Circuit Malfunction.” The code is set when your car's primary computer—also known as the powertrain control module (PCM)—is unable to detect a signal from the crankshaft position sensor.



What are three top common reasons to determine when the crankshaft position sensor is failing?


Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft Sensor

  • Check Engine Light.
  • Engine Refuses to Start.
  • Engine Stalling.
  • Rough-Running Engine.
  • Reduced Fuel Economy.



What is the difference between a crank sensor and a crankshaft sensor?


A crankshaft sensor is a generic term that can apply t0 anything that measures something from the crankshaft, whereas a crank angle sensors only measure the angle from top dead centre. So strictly speaking they are not the same, but a crank angle sensors is one form of crankshaft sensor.



Will a bad crank sensor show a code?


With a Check Engine Light on, trouble codes will be stored in the onboard computer that can help identify whether the crank sensor is faulty. DTCs will often be directly related to the crank sensor, and they're often accompanied by other codes related to misfires, timing, or injection.



Will disconnecting battery reset crankshaft sensor?


Will Disconnecting Battery Reset Crankshaft Sensor? Disconnecting the battery will not reset the crankshaft position sensor.



What happens when a crank sensor goes bad?


``What happens if your crankshaft position sensor goes bad?'' Put simply, the engine won't run. The ECU can't sense the position of the crankshaft, and that means it can't do things like time the ignition or work out the engine's RPM. The engine may be turned by the starter, but it won't start.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.