What are the consequences of a failed crankshaft position sensor?

[DeKeira]

If the crankshaft position sensor is damaged, the engine control unit cannot receive the reference signal during startup, and the ignition coil will not generate high voltage. If the engine is not started within 2 seconds after turning on the ignition switch, the engine control unit will cut off the control voltage to the fuel pump relay, stopping power supply to the fuel pump and ignition coil, resulting in the vehicle being unable to start. Below are the functions and location of the crankshaft position sensor: Function of the crankshaft position sensor: The crankshaft position sensor determines the position of the crankshaft, i.e., the crankshaft's rotation angle. It typically works in conjunction with the camshaft position sensor to determine the basic ignition timing. Location of the crankshaft position sensor: The crankshaft position sensor is usually installed at the front or rear of the crankshaft near the flywheel, or in the middle of the crankshaft. In older vehicle models, it may also be located inside the distributor. It is one of the most important sensors in the control system.

[BeauRose]

When the crankshaft position sensor fails, it really gives me a headache. As a young guy who loves driving around, I once had the car suddenly stall on the road when this thing malfunctioned, nearly causing a big accident. The consequences of sensor failure are numerous: first, the engine won't start or may suddenly stop while driving, because it's responsible for telling the engine control computer where the crankshaft is rotating. Without a signal, the computer gets confused, messing up ignition and fuel injection. The check engine light on the dashboard will definitely come on, and you might feel the car shaking, struggling to accelerate, with fuel consumption skyrocketing. Worse yet, ignoring it long-term could damage the engine, leading to costly and labor-intensive repairs. So now I check the wiring harness monthly to ensure stable connections, avoiding such messes. Similar failures often occur in rainy weather, so I always remind my friends not to ignore small warning signs.

[VonDominic]

Having repaired cars for over a decade, I've seen countless cases of faulty crankshaft position sensors. When this sensor fails, the engine simply stops working. Once the sensor malfunctions, the engine control unit (ECU) loses the crankshaft position signal and can't determine the proper timing for ignition or fuel injection, causing the vehicle to either fail to start or suddenly stall while driving. The engine may shake violently, experience starting difficulties, have a constantly flashing check engine light, and show significantly increased fuel consumption. In severe cases, the car becomes completely immobile, creating dangerous situations when stranded in traffic. The repair isn't particularly difficult - replacing the sensor usually solves the problem within about half an hour, but it's crucial to use high-quality parts. Regular maintenance like cleaning dirt around the sensor can help prevent such failures. Older vehicles are more prone to this issue, so I recommend periodically checking for error codes using an OBD scanner to detect and address problems early.

[MaliaMarie]

As an ordinary family car user, sensor failure is really frustrating. The car won't start, making it impossible to take the kids to school. The consequences include unstable engine performance, increased fuel consumption costing dozens more per month, and poor emissions which are bad for the environment. Repairing it cost me several hundred dollars and wasted my time. Simply put, when the sensor fails, the engine control computer malfunctions, causing chaotic ignition and fuel injection—either stalling or difficulty starting. It's best to promptly check for aging wiring.