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Mercedes-Benz is a brand that is known for its exceptional quality in design and engineering, which translates into its high-end performance standards and comfort. Although Mercedes is one of the top automotive brands in the world, they are a true testament to the fact that all mechanically engineered things experience failures and malfunctions and require replacements and repairs, no matter how well made the machine is. One such part that is known to fail in some Mercedes vehicles is the crankshaft position sensor. In this article, we’ll go over some basic information about the crankshaft position sensor, including how to spot problems with it and what you can do to prevent issues from occurring.
WHAT DOES THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR DO?
Most modern vehicles run off of a technologically based system, which ultimately is far more efficient than in vehicles just a few decades ago. Your Mercedes is equipped with tons of small parts and pieces that all serve an important function, including various sensors throughout the car, which detect, measure, and relay important information to the car’s main computer system, helping it to run more effectively and efficiently. Most cars today, including Mercedes vehicles, are equipped with a crankshaft position sensor that helps to determine the crankshaft’s speed, as well as its position of course. This data is collected then sent to the car’s ECU so the computer can dictate changes throughout the vehicle’s functioning to optimize the car’s performance.
A MERCEDES COMMON ISSUE
Failing crankshaft position sensors pose a serious problem for drivers. When this singular part fails, it can make it very difficult to maintain optimal running conditions, and Mercedes drivers aren’t thrilled with the outcome. One Mercedes model that has documented cases of crankshaft position sensor failure is the CL500. Older models that have accumulated mileage are at a greater risk of premature failure, as the problem couldn’t be addressed in these earlier models. However, over the years, the Mercedes manufacturer has addressed this issue in their design and the number of documented cases of crankshaft position sensor failure has dropped significantly. However, if you drive a Mercedes car, especially an older CL500, it is critical to be on the lookout for failure of this part.
WARNING SYMPTOMS TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR
Being aware of the signs that a failing crankshaft position sensor will produce is the first step toward preventing issues from worsening or causing further damage to your car. Here are the most common symptoms of crankshaft position sensor failure that you should know about:
ENGINE PERFORMANCE CHANGES
Many Mercedes drivers first experience performance changes in their vehicle:
Stalling or misfiring – if you notice your car begins to stall or misfire, the problem could be due to any number of original issues; however, stalling and misfiring adds significant strain to your engine and transmission and must be addressed immediately.
Starting issues – again, the signs of crankshaft position sensor can look a lot like other issues, such as ignition switch failure. It is important to have your trusted Mercedes specialist perform a differential diagnosis to rule-out other causes of starting issues in your car.
CHECK-ENGINE WARNING LIGHT
Many dread the check-engine light, but it acts as a helpful preventive tool. It’s best to have these trouble codes read by a Mercedes specialist to determine if the problem is with the crankshaft position sensor.
HOW YOU CAN KEEP YOUR MERCEDES FROM ENCOUNTERING SENSOR FAILURE
Taking a preventive approach to your auto care is the best way to ensure that you do not encounter crankshaft position sensor failure. Here are some specific things you can do to keep your Mercedes in excellent condition:
• Hire a Mercedes specialist to handle maintenance and repairs
• Choose a shop that uses quality parts for replacements
• Don’t wait to address concerning symptoms in your Mercedes
• Adhere to your Mercedes’ maintenance plan
• Collaborate with your specialist on how else you can prevent issues
Autobahn Automotive Service is an independent Mercedes specialist that has been serving San Antonio and Longhorn, TX for over 4 decades. With high standards of expertise and skill, we take a preventive approach to automotive care and know what common issues to look out for in various Mercedes models. If you’d like to schedule a diagnostic appointment with us, or just learn more about our shop, please contact us right away.