A component that can lead to significant issues with your Mercedes when it malfunctions is the crankshaft position sensor (CPS). This sensor is very important to the functioning of your engine. It checks the position and speed of the crankshaft and relays the information to the ECU, which controls the fuel injection and ignition time. When the sensor goes bad, the Mercedes can have a hard time starting, run poorly, and even stall. To help you save on costly repairs and avoid a complete car malfunction, here are some signs that your Mercedes requires a crankshaft position sensor replacement.
Common Signs That Your Mercedes Needs A New Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The CPS assists in the control of the engine timing. If it fails, the engine might not be able to correctly track the position of the crankshaft, which may lead to random stalling or misfires. Your car may stall while idling or even driving, which is unsafe. If your Mercedes stalls often or lags when you step on the accelerator pedal, there might be a problem with the crankshaft position sensor. The engine may start and run smoothly like every functional car, but it may suddenly develop a tendency to cut off power. If this occurs frequently, it would be wise to have the sensor analyzed before you end up stuck on the road.
- Hard to Start: A failing CPS can interfere with the engine’s ability to start. If the sensor is not sending the right data, the ECU will not be able to tell when to release fuel or ignite the spark plugs, leading to a hard time starting the car. At first, you may experience a little problem starting the engine, which is worse when the engine is hot. In the long run, it can worsen, resulting in longer cranking times or even a no-start situation. This sensor may be the cause if your Mercedes cranks but won’t turn over.
- Check Engine Light: Current Mercedes cars have an onboard diagnostic system that detects malfunctioning sensors. If the crankshaft position sensor is failing, the ECU will turn on the check engine light to show that there is a problem. You can take your vehicle to a mechanic, who will check the dashboard to see if it indicates a faulty crankshaft sensor. This problem is usually confirmed by codes such as P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction. If you are experiencing other signs besides the warning light, you should take it to a reliable repair shop for an accurate diagnosis.
What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms
- Get a Professional Diagnosis: If your Mercedes has developed a stalling problem, hard start issues, misfire, poor acceleration, or a check engine light that is on, do not hesitate to seek the services of a mechanic. A professional mechanic can use different equipment to test the crankshaft position sensor and determine if it is bad.
- Do Not Continue to Drive with a Bad Sensor: If the crankshaft position sensor is faulty, driving with it can cause more harm to the engine control unit, ignition system, or fuel injectors. This is why it is always advisable to address the problem before it gets worse and results in a complete failure.
- Replace the Sensor with a High-Quality Part: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor is not a complicated task, but it is important to make sure that the part used is of high quality. A genuine Mercedes or OEM sensor will work effectively and will not wear out quickly.
Need Mercedes Sensor Repairs? Call EuroService Automotive Today
As a company specializing in Mercedes diagnostics and repairs, EuroService Automotive will ensure that every component of your vehicle’s engine is as efficient as possible. We employ professional mechanics who use sophisticated equipment to identify faulty crankshaft position sensors and replace them to avoid trouble, breakdowns, and poor performance. Based in Warrenton, Virginia, we provide services to drivers from areas like Bristow, Manassas, Gainesville, and Haymarket. If you have noticed some of the symptoms mentioned above or any other problem related to the crankshaft position sensor, do not hesitate to book an inspection to get your vehicle back on the road.