Crankshaft Position Sensor: Description

The crankshaft position sensor mounts to the engine block near the starter. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Crankshaft Position Sensor

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

The PCM uses the Crankshaft Position sensor to calculate the following:

1. Engine RPM
2. TDC number 1 and 4
3. Ignition coil synchronization
4. Injector synchronization
5. Camshaft-to-crankshaft misalignment (Timing belt skipped 1 tooth or more diagnostic trouble code).