What are the symptoms of a faulty crankshaft position sensor?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft position sensor include: First, the malfunction indicator light will illuminate, and the engine may exhibit shaking or emit white smoke. The engine starting time may become prolonged, or it may fail to start altogether, and cruise control may not function properly. If the crankshaft position sensor is damaged, the engine control unit cannot receive the reference signal during startup, preventing the ignition coil from generating high-voltage electricity. If the engine is not started within 2 seconds of turning on the ignition switch, the engine control unit cuts off the control voltage to the fuel pump relay, stopping power supply to the fuel pump and ignition coil, resulting in the vehicle's inability to start.
As an experienced mechanic, the most common issue I've seen is faulty crankshaft position sensors. When you start the engine, it shakes violently like it's got malaria, and the tachometer needle jumps erratically like it's having a seizure. In severe cases, the engine won't start at all, and the check engine light comes on. Some cars are even worse - they'll suddenly stall halfway down the road, leaving you stranded, which is terrifying. This component controls ignition timing - when it fails, the ECU can't tell where the pistons are, throwing both fuel injection and ignition completely out of sync. The most annoying part is the chain reaction it causes, potentially damaging the catalytic converter too. If you notice your car accelerating with hesitation like it's gasping for air, don't hesitate - check this sensor immediately!
