Crankshaft Sensor Replacement Cost: What You Need to Know

Is your car struggling to accelerate, stalling intermittently, or taking a while to start?
A faulty crankshaft position sensor could be to blame.

Fortunately, replacing the sensor doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.

We’ll break down the cost of crankshaft sensor replacement, the factors affecting it, and some telltale signs to help you quickly spot a failing sensor.

This Article Contains:

How Much Does a Crankshaft Sensor Replacement Cost?
Is It Worth Replacing the Crankshaft Sensor?
Signs You Need a Crankshaft Sensor Replacement
How Long Does a Crankshaft Sensor Last?
What’s the Difference Between a Crankshaft and a Camshaft Sensor?
Can You Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor Yourself?

How Much Does a Crankshaft Sensor Replacement Cost?

Let’s dive into what you can expect to pay for a crankshaft sensor replacement.

A. Range

The average crankshaft position sensor replacement cost typically falls between $200 and $400. This includes:

Parts: $50 to $200
Labor: $150 to $200

B. Factors Affecting Cost

A few aspects can influence how much you’ll end up paying for a crankshaft sensor replacement, including:

Vehicle make and model: Luxury and high-performance vehicles may require more expensive components. Additionally, some vehicles have the crankshaft position sensor in hard-to-reach areas, such as behind the engine or near the transmission, which can increase labor costs.

OEM vs aftermarket parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are usually more expensive than their aftermarket alternatives but offer better quality. OEM parts are also manufactured to the exact specifications of your car’s original components.

Additional repairs: The overall cost may increase if the mechanic notices any other related issues. For example, the mechanic may find a faulty camshaft position sensor that also needs replacing. A camshaft sensor replacement can set you back another $100-$300 in labor costs and parts.

Is It Worth Replacing the Crankshaft Sensor?

Yes, you should definitely replace a faulty crankshaft position sensor.

The sensor monitors the crankshaft’s position as well as speed and sends this data to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM uses this information to control fuel injection and ignition timing.

Without this sensor, the Engine Control Module can’t properly control motor functions, leading to poor engine performance, misfires, stalling, or even failure to start. In some cars, a bad crankshaft sensor can also cause the engine to enter limp mode.

If you notice any symptoms of a faulty crankshaft sensor, it’s best to replace it ASAP to avoid costly repairs.

Signs You Need a Crankshaft Sensor Replacement

Here are some indicators that you might have a bad crankshaft position sensor:

Reduced engine performance: You may notice your car doesn’t accelerate as quickly or as smoothly as it used to. That’s because when the sensor fails, it sends incorrect or no data to the ECU, disrupting the ignition timing. This leads to inefficient fuel combustion and reduced performance.
Illuminated check engine light: When a malfunctioning crankshaft sensor sends incorrect signals to the ECU, it detects the issue and triggers the check engine light. Your car will also register a P0335 trouble code, indicating a crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction.
Intermittent stalling: A bad crank sensor disrupts the fuel injection and ignition system, leading to incorrect engine synchronization. When the timing is thrown off, the engine can stall or cut out unexpectedly.
Trouble starting: A faulty sensor may send incorrect or no signals, making it difficult to start the engine or, in some cases, preventing it from starting altogether.
Poor fuel efficiency: A faulty crank sensor can throw off the ECU’s ability to correctly time ignition and fuel injection. The incorrect timings can lead to incomplete combustion or misfires. This makes the engine work harder and reduces your fuel efficiency.

How Long Does a Crankshaft Sensor Last?

The crankshaft position sensor should last the lifetime of the vehicle or upwards of 100,000 miles. However, since it’s often located near the engine, it is exposed to intense heat and vibrations.

Additionally, oil leaks, contamination with other engine fluids, and electrical issues can cause the part to fail earlier than expected.

Since there’s no set schedule for replacing this sensor, it’s important to pay attention to warning signs like poor engine performance or trouble starting.

What’s the Difference Between a Crankshaft and a Camshaft Sensor?

The crankshaft position sensor tracks the crankshaft’s position and rotational speed, which drives the engine’s pistons. The camshaft position sensor monitors the camshaft’s position, which controls the opening and closing of your engine’s intake and exhaust valves.

Many symptoms of a failing crankshaft position sensor can overlap with a bad camshaft sensor. When faulty, both sensors can cause engine performance issues.

However, there are a few distinct signs that point to a camshaft position sensor replacement.

Generally, the crankshaft sensor leads to more severe problems, such as the engine cutting out at red lights, random power losses, or rough idling. On the other hand, a faulty cam sensor will likely cause more engine vibrations and misfires, or the car won’t start at all.

For the most accurate diagnosis, you’ll need a multimeter and an OBD-II scanner.

Can You Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor Yourself?

Since the crankshaft position sensor is located near the engine block and close to the crankshaft pulley, the replacement can be labor-intensive and involve removing multiple car parts. It often requires specialized tools and technical knowledge.

You’ll also need to have the correct diagnostic equipment, such as an OBD-II scanner, to confirm if the crankshaft position sensor is the culprit. Given these challenges, it’s best to leave this repair to a professional technician at a reputable auto repair shop.

Get Seamless Crankshaft Sensor Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service

A crankshaft position sensor is a small but critical component responsible for monitoring your engine’s timing and performance. Without it, the ECU won’t receive the necessary data, leading to serious engine issues.

However, replacing the crankshaft position sensor on your own can be challenging. That’s why you need experts from AutoNation Mobile Service.

We’re a mobile auto repair solution offering convenient online bookings and upfront pricing. All of our repair services also come with a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty.