Owning a Mercedes is one of the best driving experiences, as the brand is known for its sophisticated features and vehicle reliability. There are various parts of the Mercedes model that help it deliver the sound and excellent performance you are used to. However, these parts can become damaged over time or due to an incident. A crankshaft position sensor failure is one common fault that some Mercedes models experience. This sensor plays a major role in engine function and performance. So, if you want your Mercedes in tip-top shape, you need to find a solution to this fault quickly before any real damage is done to your car’s engine. This guide provides all the necessary information.
Functions of the Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor is one of the important sensors in your Mercedes, and like other sensors, it helps to monitor and send information to your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) for better engine performance. It monitors the crankshaft position and speed, both of which are important for various functions.
The crankshaft’s position and speed determine other factors, such as fuel injection timing, ignition timing, and the opening and closing of the valves for air entry into the engine. Hence, if the sensor fails, it cannot accurately determine the crankshaft’s position and this can lead to engine issues, which could eventually cause failure.
Here are some common reasons why the crankshaft position sensor in a Mercedes could fail:
Aging
As your car ages, some of its parts begin to wear out and lose their functions. The crankshaft position sensor is an example as it could lose its sensitivity over time and may require a replacement for better function.
Dirt and Dust Corrosion
Another common cause of failure of the crankshaft position sensor in a car is corrosion. If moisture and air get into the sensor, it could cause corrosion to some of its parts, disrupting the flow of information to the ECU and leading to engine issues.
Physical Impact
Another issue that can cause the sensor to fail in its function is physical damage to the sensor body. This can happen on impact or as a result of extremely high temperature which could cause damage to some parts of the sensor.
3 Signs that Indicate a Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure in a Mercedes
Because of the sensitivity of a crankshaft position sensor failure, you need to find a solution to faults before they become major and affect your car’s performance. Hence, here are some signs that indicate a sensor problem;
Difficulty Starting the Engine
If your car’s engine does not start easily or at all, then it could be due to a crankshaft position sensor failure. This sensor must send information to the ECU before certain actions can take place to push the engine’s function. However, if the sensor fails, then the engine does not get the information it needs to work.
The “Check Engine” Light Comes On
Another sign that indicates a problem with the crankshaft position sensor in any car is the “check engine” light. Your dashboard lights up once there is any slight indication that the engine’s function and safety are compromised. As we have established above, a faulty sensor means the engine does not get all it needs to function. Hence, the light makes you aware of the situation so you can fix it.
Poor/Slow Acceleration
If you notice that your Mercedes now accelerates weakly no matter how hard you press on the accelerator, then it could be because of damage to the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor determines the fuel injection and ignition timing, both of which are necessary for the engine to pick up and power up your vehicle for its speed. A faulty sensor will not allow this, leading to weak acceleration.
Expert Repair Services in Houston for Your Mercedes Crankshaft Position Sensor
Taking proper care of your luxury vehicle means that you only allow the best hands on your car. Poor repair jobs can cause even more complications than the initial fault. Hence, it is important to find a shop that can care properly for your Mercedes.
If you are in Sugar Land, Mission Bend, Cinco Ranch, Katy, or Houston, TX, Bimmer Performance is that Automobile repair shop. We understand that maintenance and repairs are part of the process to improve a vehicle’s performance. Hence, we provide the best of these services so your luxury car runs smoothly.