All vehicles run into their share of problems over time, especially as they accrue wear and tear with increased mileage. As one of the most well-designed and engineered vehicles in the auto industry, BMWs are known for their exceptional performance standards that rival some of the highest end cars out there. Regular servicing and maintenance can help prevent a lot of the common issues BMW cars tend to experience, including crankshaft position sensor failure.
If you’re unsure of what the crankshaft sensor does for your BMW, you’re not alone—most drivers aren’t aware of how important this part is for their vehicle’s functioning. In this article, we’ll go over the basic function of the crankshaft sensor, signs of its failure, and what the next steps should be if you experience concerning symptoms.
What Does a Crankshaft Sensor Do For Your BMW?
Most vehicles today, especially high-end performance vehicles like BMW, are designed with the intention of making as many functions and qualities as technologically-based as possible. Since the majority of cars are controlled with computer programming, certain components like various types of sensors are critical in order for the car to make the automatic adjustments it needs while the car is driving. These sensors, including the crankshaft position sensor, inform the car’s computers or control modules of what the engine needs in order to perform optimally. The crankshaft position sensor is specifically responsible for determining the optimal position and speed of the crankshaft so that the car’s computer can refine its functionality.
Signs that the Crankshaft Sensor is Failing
If you begin to notice that your BMW is performing oddly, or gradually losing its ability to perform like it used to, it’s always a good idea to have it checked out by a professional BMW technician. However, the crankshaft position sensor will cause your car to exhibit specific symptoms that you should be on the lookout for.
Check-Engine Light Illumination
Most drivers dread the check-engine light coming on, and rightfully so—it often leads to costly and extensive repair work. However, it’s worth noting that the longer these problems go undiagnosed the more costly and extensive the repairs will be. Your BMW specialist will be able to read the trouble codes emitted by your car’s computer and follow a plan of treatment specific to the crankshaft position sensor.
Abnormal Power Deficiencies
When you think of the BMW brand you think of control, endurance, and luxury—terms that do not coincide with power deficiency. Normal BMW functioning should allow for quick acceleration, but when the car cannot receive the input it needs from the crankshaft position sensor, the car suffers in power capacity.
Engine Performance Issues
BMW engine performance is one of the main reasons why they’re popular amongst drivers. A failing crankshaft sensor often leads to concerning performance issues like stalling, sputtering, misfiring, lowered fuel efficiency, and starting problems. Since the position of the crankshaft directly affects the car’s ability to ignite and combust at the proper intervals, it’s typical for engine performance to be greatly impacted.
The Importance of a Differential Diagnosis
If you begin to notice any of the previously mentioned signs of crankshaft sensor failure in your own BMW, it is critical to have a differential diagnosis performed as soon as possible. Crankshaft position sensor failure is a relatively easy issue to fix; however, the symptoms of failure can often mimic symptoms of other more significant engine problems. To rule-out other causes of these symptoms, a differential diagnosis must be performed by a BMW specialist.
What We Can Do to Help You
The BMW pros here at Green Garage have serviced a wide range of BMW models for clients in the areas of Winter Park and Orlando, FL. We take pride in our ability to provide quality, reliable, specialized services for our clients, which has earned us the title of central Florida’s leading independent automotive service center. Furthermore, we are highly proficient in diagnosing and treating crankshaft position sensor failure. If your BMW has recently begun to produce odd or abnormal symptoms, please don’t hesitate to utilize our services. To schedule an appointment, you can do so through our website or call one of our helpful staff members today.
