Crankshaft Position Sensor: Description and Operation

Typical Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor:

PURPOSE
The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is the primary sensor for ignition information to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

CONSTRUCTION
The CKP sensor is a variable reluctance sensor, which is triggered by a 36-minus-1 tooth trigger pulse wheel located inside the engine front cover.

OPERATION
The sine-wave type signal generated from the CKP sensor provides two types of information:
- the position of the crankshaft in 10-degree increments.
- crankshaft speed (rpm).

The PCM uses this information to determine ignition coil turn ON and turn OFF time and for misfire detection.