Component Description

The crankshaft position sensor (OBD) is located on the transaxle housing facing the gear teeth (cogs) of the flywheel or drive plate. It detects the fluctuation of the engine revolution.

The sensor consists of a permanent magnet, core and coil.

When the engine is running, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change.

The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change.

Due to the changing magnetic field, the voltage from the sensor changes.

The ECM receives the voltage signal and detects the fluctuation of the engine revolution.

This sensor is not directly used to control the engine system. It is used only for the on board diagnosis.

Fig 1: Section View Of Crankshaft Position Sensor (OBD)

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Fig 2: Identifying Crankshaft Position Sensor (OBD)

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.