A vehicle’s internal combustion engine contains a crankshaft and a piston. These two components allow the engine to start and produce the necessary power to move the vehicle.
As fuel and air burn in the combustion chamber, the vapors exert pressure on the piston. Once this happens, the crankshaft converts this power into rotational energy. The crankshaft must be in the correct position and rotating at the proper speed to function correctly. The role of the crankshaft position sensor is to detect the position of the crankshaft and its rotational speed.
Working Principle
Now, why is this so important? Well, this is all crucial information that the engine control unit needs to successfully manage the internal combustion process. As you may know, the internal combustion chamber requires the right amount of fuel in conjunction with the engine’s requirements. The ignition system will then need to time the ignition of the air-fuel mixture precisely. Otherwise, it could compromise the engine’s performance.
Therefore, the crankshaft position sensor allows the engine control unit to receive accurate information about the crankshaft. This way, the computer will ensure that the fuel injectors deliver the precise amount of fuel needed into the chamber. Additionally, it will control the ignition timing so that the mixture ignites at the right moment.
Replacement Cost
The engine control unit is the central computer that electronically controls most of your vehicle’s functions and systems. If there is a problem with the crankshaft position sensor, the engine control unit will detect it. Once the computer detects a sensor malfunction, it immediately activates the Check Engine light on your dashboard. Besides that, you should notice weaker engine performance and poor fuel economy. With all these issues occurring simultaneously, you need to confirm that it is your crankshaft position sensor causing these problems.
When it comes time to replace your crankshaft position sensor, it will cost you between $120 and $300. The parts cost will only be $80 to $120, while labor costs will range from $50 to $200. It all depends on where you go to have the replacement done, as well as the make and model of your vehicle. Your best bet would be to research auto shops and get quotes on their prices for this type of replacement.