Crankshaft Position Sensor Intermittent Engine Cut-Out
SeriousEngineThe magnetic crankshaft position sensor (crank angle sensor) on the 1.6-litre petrol engine is susceptible to internal thermal breakdown. As the sensor ages, heat radiated from the engine block causes microscopic fractures in its internal winding. When the engine reaches full operating temperature, the sensor intermittently loses its engine speed reference signal, resulting in violent engine jerking, check engine light illumination, and sudden engine stall that leaves the car unable to restart until it cools down.
Engine suddenly cuts out or dies at traffic lights or during cruising once fully warm, Starter motor cranks briskly after stalling but engine refuses to fire until cooled for 20 minutes, Engine management warning light illuminates with stored crankshaft sensor error codes
- Allow the car to idle until the cooling fan cycles to test for warm stalling behaviour
- Check for stored OBD diagnostic trouble codes relating to crank angle sensor signal loss
- Inspect the sensor wiring harness near the crankshaft pulley for oil contamination or chafing