How To Bypass the Crank Position Sensor? 

An internal combustion engine’s crankshaft position or rotational speed can be tracked using a crank position sensor. It is used to check the engine’s ignition timing and to modify it as necessary. 

The crank position sensor keeps track of the crankshaft’s location and is typically mounted on the engine block or cylinder head. The engine’s computer receives the signals and changes the ignition timing as necessary.

In this article, you will learn how to bypass the crank position sensor with all the relevant information you need to know. So stick around until the end to find out what you’ve been looking for. 

Table of Contents

• What does the crank position sensor do?
• What are the symptoms of a bad crank position sensor?
• How to bypass the crank position sensor?
• What happens when the crank position sensor goes bad?
• How to test a crank sensor?
• Is there any temporary fix for the crankshaft position sensor?
• How to start a car with a bad crankshaft sensor?

What does the crank position sensor do?

An essential part of an engine that measures the crankshaft’s position is the crank position sensor. Its primary function is to gauge the crankshaft’s speed and position and then transmit those readings to the electronic control unit (ECU). 

The ECU uses this data to regulate the fuel injection, ignition timing, and other aspects of the engine. The crank position sensor also aids in the detection of misfires, which if ignored can result in engine damage. 

This sensor is also used to identify engine knock, which can be brought on by erroneous spark plug timing or an incorrect air-fuel ratio.

The crank position sensor is also employed in the diagnosis of stalling, rough idling, and difficult starting issues with engines. Without this sensor, it would be challenging to comprehend why an engine is operating below par. It is a crucial component of the engine that ensures proper and effective engine operation.

What are the symptoms of a bad crank position sensor?

1. Engine misfire: The crank position sensor gauges the crankshaft’s position and speed. The engine may misfire if it fails.

2. Rough Idle: The ignition timing is governed by the crank position sensor. If it malfunctions, the engine might idle unevenly.

3. Stalling: The crank position sensor aids in keeping the engine’s speed constant. The engine may stall if it fails.

4. Lower Fuel Economy: The engine’s crank position sensor aids in preserving a healthy air-fuel ratio. The engine might use more fuel than necessary if it malfunctions.

5. Flashing Check Engine Light: If the crank position sensor malfunctions, it sends out an error signal. The check engine light may turn on as a result of this.

How to bypass the crank position sensor?

Before we start, can you bypass the crank position sensor? No, Crank position sensor bypassing is not possible. The engine control unit (ECU) of the car must receive data from this sensor in order to know where the crankshaft is located.

Poor engine performance results from the ECU’s inability to properly regulate the timing of the ignition and the flow of fuel without this information.

What happens when the crank position sensor goes bad?

The performance of the engine can be impacted in a number of different ways when the crank position sensor fails. 

• The engine control module (ECM) uses the crank position sensor to track the crankshaft’s position and use that information to decide when to ignite the spark plugs and inject fuel. 
• The ECM may not be able to accurately determine the position of the crankshaft if the crank position sensor is malfunctioning or has malfunctioned. This can lead to misfires, hard starting, stalling, and poor performance.
• Additionally, the engine performance and fuel efficiency may suffer if the ECM is unable to precisely control the timing of the spark plugs and injectors. 
• In extreme circumstances, the ECM might switch to a “limp home” mode, which restricts the engine’s power to stop further damage from occurring.

How to test a crank sensor?

• Visually examine the crank sensor for any telltale signs of rust or damage.
• Inspect the wiring and connectors for corrosion or any loose connections.
• Use an ohmmeter to measure the sensor’s resistance.
• Use a multimeter to examine the sensor’s output.
• Use an oscilloscope or scan tool to examine the crank sensor signal.
• Perform various engine conditions tests on the crank sensor.

Is there any temporary fix for the crankshaft position sensor?

Generally, there is no temporary fix for the crankshaft position sensor unless replacing it with a new one. But in some cases, you can try the following. 

You may be able to debug the issue if your car experiences sporadic sensor-related issues by taking a few different actions.

Resetting the error codes won’t help because you’ll either just hide the code without fixing the problem, or the problem will recur as soon as you restart the car.

Resetting the ECU and switching on and off the crankshaft position sensor power plug are the only possible fixes. The sensor needs to be replaced if the problems continue.

How to start a car with a bad crankshaft sensor?

It is not possible to start a car with a bad crankshaft sensor. The crankshaft sensor is an essential component of the vehicle’s engine control system, and it is responsible for providing information to the vehicle’s computer about the engine’s position and speed. 

Without this information, the vehicle’s computer will not be able to control the engine properly and will not be able to start the vehicle. Therefore, if the crankshaft sensor is bad, the engine will not be able to start. In this case, the sensor will need to be replaced in order for the engine to start.

But, sometimes, you may be able to start the car after the following checks. 

• Examine the spark plugs and wires in the engine. They could be causing the crankshaft sensor to malfunction if they are worn out or damaged.
• With the engine’s throttle slightly open, try starting the vehicle. If the crankshaft sensor is unable to accurately detect the engine’s speed, this may be of assistance.
• Change the sensor on the crankshaft. If the sensor is actually malfunctioning, this is typically the best option.
• Look for any damage or loose connections in the wiring harness. This is yet another frequent reason why crankshaft sensors stop working.
• Check the ignition system of the vehicle. If there are any issues with it, they might be the root of the crankshaft sensor’s failure.