Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on the Passat?
2 Answers
It is located on the side of the engine block. The crankshaft sensor on the Volkswagen Passat is positioned on the left side of the engine block, at the junction between the engine and the transmission. When the vehicle experiences symptoms such as lack of power, failure to start, or no idle, it is often due to a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor. Information about automotive sensors is as follows: Crankshaft Position Sensor: Detects the crankshaft and engine speed, providing the ECU with a reference signal to determine ignition timing and the firing order. The two bolts securing the crankshaft position sensor to the transmission are specially designed: to ensure a proper gap between the sensor and the flywheel, and no other bolts should replace these specially designed bolts.
Last time I replaced the crankshaft position sensor on my old Passat myself, and the location was really tricky! It's at the connection point between the engine and transmission, so you have to crawl under the car and remove the underbody cover to see it. There's a small black square with a two-wire connector facing the flywheel housing—that's the one. You'll need an extension for your wrench to reach the mounting bolts, and it's especially tough if you have big hands. When replacing it, make sure to thoroughly clean any metal shavings off the trigger wheel. Last time I didn't clean it well enough, and the new sensor threw a fault code after just three days of driving.
