The 6 Best Crankshaft Position Sensors
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in November of 2018. The crankshaft position sensor in modern internal combustion engines protects the motor from damage that is caused when the piston strokes are desynchronized from ignition and fuel injection timing. It sends information about the rotation angle of the crank to the control module, which compares it with information about the valvetrain to determine the ideal moment to inject and spark the fuel. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Spectra Premium S10208
2. Beck Arnley 180-0735
3. Ramco RA-CRS1058
Editor's Notes
June 11, 2019:
There are many good options out there for replacing a crank sensor. However, there are also many brands to look out for. The build quality is not always up to the standards required for longevity in a hostile engine compartment. Some bad signs to be on the lookout for are things like unprotected wires, messy soldering or silastic application, and rough casting marks and edges. While going with the cheapest option may sometimes seem like a good idea, a failed crank sensor can end up stranding you on a highway and result in a hefty tow bill along with paying for another sensor and additional labor to replace it.
After-market sensors like the Autex ZL0118221A and the AC Delco 213-354 limit the quality of their sensors to the quality of the original equipment that the engine comes with. Unfortunately, many car manufacturers cut costs by opting for inferior plastics that will serve as failure points through the life of the engine. Sensors like the Spectra Premium S10208 and the Beck Arnley 180-0735 are quality products that will ultimately save car owners time and money.
All in-depth repairs to cars, trucks, and engines should be performed by trained automotive technicians to avoid personal injury or damage to the engine.
4. Bosch 0261210170
5. AC Delco 213-354
6. Autex ZL0118221A
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.