Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)

The crankshaft position sensor (POS) is located on the oil pan facing the gear teeth (cogs) of the signal plate. It detects the fluctuation of the engine revolution.

The sensor consists of a permanent magnet and Hall IC. 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.

Fig 1: Identifying Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

ECM receives the signals as shown in the figure.

Fig 2: Camshaft Position Sensor Phase Signal Timing Chart

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.