engine
Crankshaft Position Sensor
for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
6
Steps
13
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the crankshaft position sensor on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.
Warnings
⚠Ensure the engine is cool before beginning work to avoid burns from hot components
⚠Do not drop the sensor bolt into the engine bay; retrieval may require significant disassembly
ℹ️The crankshaft position sensor is critical for engine operation. Any contamination or improper installation will cause a no-start condition
Tools required
10mm socketEssential
Ratchet and extensionEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Panel removal tools or trim tools
Shop towelsEssential
Flashlight or work lightEssential
Parts
- Crankshaft position sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Sensor O-ring (if not included with sensor) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
- Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
- Open hood and secure with prop rod
- Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for system discharge
Procedure
- 1Locate the crankshaft position sensorThe crankshaft position sensor is located on the lower front side of the engine block, near the crankshaft pulley area. It is positioned below the intake manifold on the passenger side of the engine. You may need to use a flashlight to locate it clearly.
- 2Remove engine cover if equippedIf your Accord has an engine cover, pull upward firmly on the cover to release the retaining grommets. Set the cover aside. Some models may have bolts requiring removal.Torque specCover Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
- 3Access the sensor areaDepending on your specific model year, you may need to remove or reposition the air intake duct or coolant hoses for better access. Remove any clips or fasteners holding these components in place and carefully move them aside without disconnecting unless necessary.
- 4Disconnect the electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector attached to the crankshaft position sensor. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the sensor. Inspect the connector terminals for any corrosion or damage.
- 5Remove the sensor mounting boltUsing a 10mm socket with extension, carefully remove the single bolt securing the crankshaft position sensor to the engine block. Keep firm control of the bolt to prevent dropping it into the engine bay. Note the bolt length and any washers for reinstallation.⚠Use magnetic tools or place a rag beneath the work area to catch the bolt if dropped
- 6Remove the crankshaft position sensorGently pull the sensor straight out from the engine block. The sensor may be held in place by an O-ring seal and may require slight twisting motion while pulling. Do not use excessive force or pry tools that could damage the mounting bore.
- 7Inspect the mounting areaCheck the sensor mounting bore in the engine block for any debris, metal shavings, or damage. Clean the area thoroughly with a shop towel. Inspect the old sensor O-ring and ensure no pieces remain in the bore.
- 8Prepare the new sensorVerify the new crankshaft position sensor matches the old unit in connector type and physical dimensions. If the new sensor does not come with an O-ring pre-installed, install the new O-ring onto the sensor body. Lightly lubricate the O-ring with clean engine oil to ease installation.
- 9Install the new sensorCarefully insert the new crankshaft position sensor straight into the mounting bore on the engine block. Push firmly until the sensor is fully seated against the mounting surface. Ensure the sensor is not cross-threaded or cocked at an angle.
- 10Install and torque the mounting boltInsert the mounting bolt and hand-thread it to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten the crankshaft position sensor bolt to specification. Do not over-torque as this can damage the sensor body or strip the threads in the aluminum engine block.Torque specCrankshaft Position Sensor10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect the electrical connectorPush the electrical connector firmly onto the new crankshaft position sensor until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely attached.
- 12Reinstall removed componentsReinstall any air intake components, hoses, or other parts that were removed for access. Ensure all clips and fasteners are properly secured. Reinstall the engine cover if equipped, aligning the grommets with their mounting posts.Torque specCover Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
- 13Reconnect battery and clear codesReconnect the negative battery terminal. If you have an OBD-II scanner, clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes related to the crankshaft position sensor (typically P0335, P0336, P0337, or P0338). If no scanner is available, the codes may clear after several successful drive cycles.
Reassembly
- Double-check that all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
- Verify the sensor mounting bolt is torqued to specification and the sensor is firmly seated
- Ensure all removed components for access have been reinstalled properly
Verification
- Start the engine and verify it starts normally without extended cranking
- Check that the malfunction indicator lamp (check engine light) does not illuminate for crankshaft position sensor codes
- Allow the engine to idle for 2-3 minutes and verify smooth operation with no misfires or irregular idle
- Test drive the vehicle to confirm normal acceleration and operation across various RPM ranges
- Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no crankshaft position sensor codes are present after test drive