SENSORS: HOW A VEHICLE THINKS
Over the span of a single mile of high-speed operation, a modern passenger vehicle will make millions of “decisions” affecting engine performance and emissions. These decisions are based on data provided by dozens of sensors tied into the vehicle’s onboard computer systems, which control everything from the amount of the air/fuel mix being fed into the combustion chamber to the deployment of the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Sensors play integral roles not only in ensuring satisfactory fuel efficiency and emissions, but also protecting the safety of the driver and passengers. And yet many of these sensors operate in hostile conditions involving extreme temperatures, vibration and nearly constant exposure to environmental contaminants.
Selecting a replacement sensor demands attention to quality and performance. The replacement must fit, perform and last at least as well as the original. In some cases, a leading manufacturer such as Dcmr offers a “better-than-original equipment” alternative that provides OE fit and form combined with a variety of enhancements that address complaints and failures associated with the original component.
Dcmr is one of the world’s leading suppliers of replacement sensors and other vehicle electronics for virtually all vehicle nameplates. Unlike many other manufacturers, however, Dcmr doesn’t strive simply to mirror OE fit, form and function; the company’s technical services and engineering teams work hand-in-hand to identify problematic applications that demand better-than-original equipment technologies.
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Buyers Guide (Reference Year/Make/Model search for proper fitment):
Camshaft and crankshaft position sensors identify the exact position of the camshaft and crankshaft during rotation to the powertrain control module (PCM). A camshaft or crankshaft sensor problem can cause many different drivability issues from a misfire to an engine no-start. The mechanical camshaft to crankshaft timing is maintained by a timing chain or belt to the cogs of the drive gears. If the mechanical cam to crank timing is misaligned for any reason a trouble code will set causing possible confusion during the diagnostic process. The mechanical timing could be off, yet the engine will run. Before replacing a sensor be certain the mechanical condition of the motor is in check.
Camshaft and crankshaft sensor signals must be synchronized to prevent a trouble code condition. Many vehicle applications require the sensors to be synchronized or relearned whenever a sensor is replaced, or the timing chain or belt are serviced. The service manual for your specific vehicle will provide information if this process needs to be performed. In some cases, this process may require the use of a full function scan tool as most code readers do not have the capability to perform this task.
If the relearn procedure is not performed when needed, the PCM does not see the two sensors in time together and will set a diagnostic trouble code indicating the fault. Not performing this procedure may also create drivability concerns such as the computer detecting misfires that are not really occurring. This trouble code condition does not mean a part has failed or installed incorrectly, or that the engine is out of time, the trouble code is simply set to acknowledge a complete repair was not made and the code set criteria will not be eliminated until the relearn or synchronization process is completed
After a thorough diagnosis to ensure that a camshaft or crankshaft position sensor are in fact the direct cause of the drivability or no-start condition, refer to the applicable service manual to aid in replacement of the sensor. Follow the correct installation process so that no damage will occur to any component during installation.
For addition support contact the Dcmr technical services team for assistance.