Where is the crank sensor located on a 2007 Chevy Malibu?
On a 2007 Malibu, the crankshaft position sensor sits on the front of the engine block near the crank pulley. The exact mounting point depends on which engine you have: the 2.4L Ecotec version and the 3.5L V6 version each place the sensor in a front-block location near the timing cover. This guide breaks down the two common setups and how to identify them.
Engine variants in the 2007 Malibu
The 2007 Malibu was offered with two engine options, and the crank sensor location aligns with the specific engine layout. Understanding which engine your car has will point you to the correct spot without guesswork.
2.4L Ecotec engine
For the 2.4L Ecotec inline-4, the crankshaft position sensor is mounted on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover and harmonic balancer (crank pulley). The connector usually comes out toward the side of the engine bay, and the sensor itself is a small, cylindrical or rectangular device threaded or bolted into the block just above the crank pulley.
3.5L V6 engine
For the 3.5L V6, the crankshaft position sensor is also mounted on the front portion of the engine block near the timing cover and crank pulley. The exact orientation can vary slightly, but it sits close to the belt-driven front of the engine with the wiring harness exiting toward the side of the engine bay. Access typically requires a clear view of the front lower section of the engine from the driver or passenger side, depending on clearance and mounting hardware.
Locating the crank sensor: quick visual guide
Use this visual approach to confirm the CPS location on your specific engine. The sensor is a small device with a 2- or 3-wire electrical connector and is mounted to the engine block just above or beside the crank pulley. It reads a reluctor ring on the crankshaft as the engine turns.
Before you begin, ensure the vehicle is off, the battery is disconnected, and the engine bay is cool. Wear eye protection and gloves as needed.
- Open the hood and locate the front of the engine where the timing cover and crank pulley are visible.
- Look for a small sensor fastened to the engine block near the pulley area. It will have a short electrical connector plugged into it.
- Trace the sensor’s wiring harness toward the rear of the engine bay to confirm you’ve found the correct component and not a nearby sensor.
- Note the mounting bolts and the connector orientation to aid replacement or inspection.
- If you’re unsure which engine you have, refer to the vehicle identification number (VIN) or the under-hood engine label and consult the service manual diagrams for the exact CPS location.
Concluding note: Locating the crank sensor is generally straightforward when you know your engine type. If the sensor is damaged or not functioning, you’ll typically encounter engine performance issues or diagnostic trouble codes related to crank position (such as P0335). A service manual diagram can provide exact bolt patterns and harness routing for your specific engine code.
What you’ll need for inspection or replacement
Before removing or replacing the sensor, prepare the right tools and follow safety steps. The following list covers typical needs and considerations.
Tools and materials you’ll want on hand include:
- Ratchet set with appropriate sockets (likely 10mm or 12mm for the sensor bolt)
- Flat-head or Torx screwdriver for harness clips
- Electrical contact cleaner and a small brush for cleaning the sensor mounting surface
- Replacement crankshaft position sensor compatible with your engine (2.4L Ecotec or 3.5L V6)
- Torque wrench to ensure proper bolt tension (per service manual)
- Safety gear (gloves and eye protection)
Concluding note: Having the right sensor type and a clean mounting surface helps ensure a reliable electrical connection and accurate readings from the CPS. If you’re not confident performing electrical work, seek a qualified technician to diagnose and replace the part.
Summary
The crankshaft position sensor on a 2007 Chevy Malibu is located on the front of the engine block near the crank pulley, but the exact position depends on the engine. The 2.4L Ecotec places it near the timing cover on the front of the block, while the 3.5L V6 positions it in a similar front-front location near the pulley. Use a visual check of the front lower engine area to identify the sensor, and consult the specific engine diagrams in your service manual or VIN-based GM diagrams for precise bolt locations and harness routing. If you experience engine performance issues or suspect a CPS fault, a diagnostic scan (P0335) can help confirm the sensor’s condition.
