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Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement

What is a crankshaft position sensor?

The crankshaft position sensor is located near the engine's crankshaft, and relays information about the crankshaft’s position as it rotates.

How does the crankshaft position sensor work?

As the crankshaft spins, the position sensor magnetically reads its position. This information is constantly sent to the engine's computer for comparison with data from the camshaft position sensor. When the two signals reach the computer, they must match; otherwise, the computer will think there is a mechanical error in the engine and will adjust some settings in response.

Several symptoms may occur when a crankshaft position sensor is failing or has failed. These symptoms can include:

Check Engine Light will illuminate

Engine will crank over but not start

Engine may stall while driving

Poor engine performance (hesitating, misfiring, and lack of power)

Toyota Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost Estimates

The average cost for a Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $246 and $292 but can vary from car to car.

Toyota Tacoma Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost by Year

The average cost for a Toyota Tacoma Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $246 and $292 but can vary from car to car.

Disclaimer

Materials Included Under License from Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. License Agreement TMS1008. All information contained in any materials obtained about Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles is based on the latest product information available at the time of publication, is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, and is intended for service providers and other interested parties in Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Specifications and procedures are subject to change without notice. This information is provided expressly for the purpose of use by professional automobile technicians who have special techniques and certifications. Repair or service by non-specialized or uncertified technicians using only this information, or without proper equipment or tools, may cause severe injury to the individual or other individuals and could possibly cause damage to the vehicle. Certain procedures or content elements may make reference to Toyota Warranty policy or practice – these policies or practices are only applicable to Toyota, Lexus, or Scion dealers.

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Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement

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What is a crankshaft position sensor?

The crankshaft position sensor is located near the engine's crankshaft, and relays information about the crankshaft’s position as it rotates.

How does the crankshaft position sensor work?

Several symptoms may occur when a crankshaft position sensor is failing or has failed. These symptoms can include:

Check Engine Light will illuminate

Engine will crank over but not start

Engine may stall while driving

Poor engine performance (hesitating, misfiring, and lack of power)

2018 Toyota Tacoma Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost

The average cost for a 2018 Toyota Tacoma Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $246 and $292.

Labor costs are estimated between $98 and $143 while parts are typically priced around $149.
This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.

What are the symptoms related to a bad crankshaft position sensor?

When the computer senses the engine is out of time, it will turn on the check engine light, and the engine may start and stall, or fail to start at all. If the engine runs, it will run poorly, and get bad fuel mileage. » LEARN MORE: Symptoms of a bad crankshaft position sensor

Can I drive with a crankshaft position sensor problem?

Driving a vehicle with a failed camshaft or crankshaft position sensor is usually impossible. If driving is possible, it is not recommended. If the sensor is functioning normally and reporting an error, the engine may be out of time or may have suffered a mechanical failure.

How often do crankshaft position sensors need to be replaced?

There's no set replacement interval for the crankshaft position sensor, and on many cars, the part will last the lifetime of the vehicle. It's not uncommon for it to fail, however, and the likelihood increases once you pass 100,000 miles.

How are crankshaft position sensor issues diagnosed?

Using a professional-grade scanner, a mechanic can read where the sensors think the crankshaft and camshaft are, and compare this to their actual position. If the reading from either sensor is incorrect, the sensor will be tested and replaced if necessary.

Common misdiagnoses

A Crankshaft Position Sensor code isn't always triggered by a defective Crankshaft Sensor. It can be triggered by other worn components such as a worn timing belt or timing chain, defective ignition components, or a defective mass air flow sensor.

How is a crankshaft position sensor replaced?

To replace the crankshaft position sensor, you have to disconnect any electrical connectors and then unscrew the sensor. Sealant may be applied before inserting the new sensor into the engine. On some vehicles, the crankshaft position sensor is located inside the engine block, and significant deconstruction is required to get to it. In these cases, we recommend trusting a professional technician with the repair.

Before replacing the crankshaft position sensor, a technician should verify that the timing chain/timing belt is in good condition and properly installed, the electrical circuit for the sensor is okay, and address any oil that is leaking onto the sensor.

Get a RepairPal Fair Price Estimate® for your 2018 Toyota Tacoma.

Our Fair Price Estimate will help you avoid overpaying based on your car, needed service, and labor rates in your area.