Crankshaft Position Sensor No Start - How To Reset?

The primary purpose of the crankshaft is to convert linear energy into rotational energy so that power is provided to move the car wheels. This process cannot occur without a working sensor that identifies the rate at which a car engine spins and sends information back to its Engine Control Module (ECM). Resetting this device will help ensure that both pieces work harmoniously and provide maximum output power and mileage. With these tips on resetting the Crankshaft Position Sensor no start fault, you should have everything you need to keep enjoying your beloved vehicle!

Investing in a total crankshaft replacement is an important step for maintaining the optimal performance of your vehicle. However, without proper resetting of the crankshaft position sensor after installation, it can be not easy to benefit from this investment. Understanding how engine parts work together is essential to ensure you get the most out of your automotive friend.

Can You Reset A Crankshaft Position Sensor?

Clarification on whether resetting a crankshaft position sensor in a vehicle is possible.
Clarification on whether resetting a crankshaft position sensor in a vehicle is possible.

When resetting a magnetic sensor, the process isn't as simple as pushing a button. The magnetic sensor reads the pickup from the crank of an engine in each rotation and sends this data to your car computer. This data is compared with database information to ensure they are both in sync. If any out-of-sync data is detected, the computer will trigger an engine code or even cut off power to prevent damage.

For these reasons, replacing and relearning the sensor is necessary for proper functionality. To "reset" it, you must relearn it so that previously stored trouble codes related to faulty sensors can be synced up with the current status of the new one. Then, your magnetic sensor will work correctly again without having any issues due to old codes being present on its system memory banks.

As experienced mechanics know, resetting the sensor can resolve a vehicle that shuts off intermittently without warning and whose stalling has become routine. Doing so may lead to improved fuel efficiency, which is always beneficial. After replacing and resetting the sensor, the car will likely reoperate at total capacity.

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When Should You Reset A  Crankshaft Position Sensor?

Guidelines for determining the appropriate circumstances to reset a crankshaft position sensor.
Guidelines for determining the appropriate circumstances to reset a crankshaft position sensor.

The successful replacement of the crankshaft position sensor is only a part of the overall process. To ensure proper engine operation, resetting the CKP sensor after installation is important. This will allow synchronization between the ECM and cams with the new component, thus allowing optimal performance from your vehicle's engine. Failure to complete this crucial step can lead to backfiring and restart failure, which can cause serious running issues down the line.

For those who have recently replaced their CKP sensors and are still experiencing non-running issues, it may be time to reset them as well. This simple action can help ensure your vehicle continues functioning at its peak level now and in future operations.

How To Reset Crankshaft Position Sensor?

A step-by-step guide on resetting a crankshaft position sensor in a vehicle.
A step-by-step guide on resetting a crankshaft position sensor in a vehicle.

When replacing a crankshaft position sensor, it is important also to reset and relearn the system. Doing so will help detect any misfires that may occur and trigger the check engine light or other indications of an issue, ensuring safe and secure riding in the future. There are two ways to do this: with and without a scanner.

Using a scanner simplifies resetting and relearning, as the program usually has specific instructions. Without one, however, it can be done using key actions while turning on the car, such as pressing down on the accelerator pedal three times or repeatedly starting and stopping your vehicle over time until you feel all functions have been completed. Both methods will ensure your crankshaft position sensor is set up correctly for optimal performance.

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Relearning Crank Sensor With A Scanner

Once the faulty crankshaft position sensor has been replaced, it must be resynchronized with the Power Control Module or PCM. This is necessary for your car's PCM to accurately determine the crankshaft's position. The process used to relearn and reset this positional information in your car's PCM memory is called a "CKP (Crankshaft Position) Variation Learn." This procedure will replace any previously stored data with that from the new sensor. Several requirements must be fulfilled to complete these steps:

    • Connect the system scanner to the car computer.
    • Ensure no stored trouble codes are in memory from the previous sensor; only allow the DTC P1336 CKP Variation Not Learned signal.
    • Set the brake and block drive wheels, then close the hood
    • Start the engine, and check oil and coolant levels are optimal (coolant at 158F)
    • Shut down the engine for 10 seconds; select CASE Learn on the scanner
    • Start the engine again, brake firmly, and follow instructions on the scanner

This small but important tip should be considered when working with Variation Learn. Increasing the engine speed to 3000/400/5150 RPM is necessary, followed by an immediate release of the throttle as soon as the engine starts decelerating to prevent over-revving and potential damage. This procedure ensures that your fuel cutoff effectively occurs for a successful Variation Learn relearning process.

  • The Diagnostic Trouble Code or DTC P1336 must be checked now that the engine is idle. There are two possibilities in this case: either the scanner will indicate that CASE is learned, and thus, the CKP sensor relearning procedure is completed, or else it means something that requires further investigation.

If the CASE has not been learned, the technician must use DTC P1336 CKP Variation Not Learned for further diagnostic information and actions. The technician should return to step one and check if other powertrain codes restrict the relearning process. If any of these codes exist, they should be addressed before repeating steps two through seven.

Resetting Crank Sensor Without A Scanner

It is necessary to conduct specific steps to fix the crankshaft sensor without a scanner. Relearn of the sensor cannot be accessed through a scanner in specific truck applications, so alternative methods must be employed:

  1. Switch off the accessories.
  2. Keep the coolant and air temperature sensor within 5C of each other and start the engine.
  3. Let the engine be idle in the Neutral or Park position for 2 minutes.
  4. Accelerate it to 55 mph at part throttle and cruise for 10 minutes, allowing it to reach its operating temperature.
  5. Cruise at 45 mph without braking for 1 minute, followed by 4 deceleration cycles of 25 seconds each with no speed specification between them; a 15-second interval should be given after every cycle before returning to 45 mph cruising velocity again.
  6. Accelerate it up to 55 mph and cruise for 2 minutes at this speed level afterward.
  7. Halt the car finally and keep idling again for another 2 minutes; drive mode or neutral with the clutch depressed is suggested here too.
  8. Following these steps will help your car run smoothly on long drives ahead.

How Long Does It Take To Reset?

Their professionalism and ability to conduct the steps will determine how long it takes to complete the process, but generally speaking, it should take no more than 30 minutes to an hour. The scanning process itself only requires 10 minutes when opting for a scanner as one of the methods.

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Final Words

The crankshaft position sensor's no-start issue has been successfully remedied. With the help of a scanner, the CKP Variation Learn feature can be utilized to resolve this problem. Alternatively, resetting it through acceleration and deceleration cycles with the transmission in an appropriate gear is also possible. However, if the car computer denies any relearning attempts, professional assistance should be sought immediately to address more severe issues that could result in engine damage.

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