What problem can you face with the Kia Soul crankshaft sensor? A failed crankshaft sensor of Kia Soul can cause intermittent stalling, problems starting the vehicle, uneven acceleration, and a vibrating engine.
Apart from this, there are some other issues to which a problematic crankshaft sensor may lead. But how do you fix the issues? Check out the solutions below.
Kia Soul Crankshaft Sensor Problems and Simple Solutions
If you are having problems with the Kia Soul crankshaft sensor, these are probably the issues you are dealing with. In case you are wondering, there are simple solutions to all of these, and you will find the solutions right here.
Problem 1: Vehicle Won’t Start
If the crankshaft sensor of your Kia Soul is failing, you are probably going to have difficulty starting the car.
The crankshaft sensor of your vehicle monitors the speed and position of the crankshaft. As you probably know, the crankshaft plays a vital role in starting the engine. Thus, the engine won’t turn on if the Kia Soul crankshaft fails.
The solution to this problem is simply replacing the sensor with a new one. It can take $140 to $170 if you can get the replacement done by a professional. However, if you do it by yourself, the total cost will not be more than a hundred bucks.
Problem 2: Intermittent Stalling
A faulty crankshaft sensor is likely to result in intermittent stalling. In this situation, the engine will start, but it will turn off again after moving a short distance. Usually, the wiring issues cause the cut in crankshaft signals of a running engine.
As the problem lies in the wiring, fixing the wiring system or getting a new set of wires should solve the issue.
Problem 3: Vibrating Engine
A bad crankshaft sensor can misfire cylinders. This, in turn, results in brief stutters of the engine. As a bad sensor fails to provide the engine’s proper signal, the cylinder will keep misfiring. Faulty spark plug timing can be an issue here as well.
It usually occurs if the crankshaft sensor happens to be dirty or clogged with debris. Just properly clean the sensor, and that should be all.
Problem 4: Reduced Gas Mileage
Despite having a good 25-27 MPG, the 2013 Kia Soul crankshaft position sensor problems can get the mileage down to a sad number. This happens due to the lack of proper timing data from the crankshaft sensor.
The engine will use more gas than necessary due to the wrong information transmitted by the sensor. As a result, you will end up with a bad fuel economy.
Replacing the crankshaft position sensor is the solution to this issue as well.
Problem 5: Uneven Acceleration
By now, you have realized that a bad crankshaft sensor will give the wrong data input. As a result, there will be difficulty controlling the engine.
To be more elaborate, the engine won’t be able to adjust the spark timing and fuel injection timing appropriately if the sensor cannot send the right information. As a result, your vehicle will get an uneven or slow acceleration. This in turn, will make it difficult for you to control your vehicle.
However, cleaning or replacing the sensor should solve the issue.
How To Replace Kia Soul Crankshaft Sensor
As you can see, most problems of crankshaft sensors can be solved by simply replacing and cleaning the part. However, while cleaning is not that complicated, replacing it can be a bit tricky.
However, you can perform the replacement with the right instructions and proper tools. Here’s how,
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Start the process by disconnecting the battery. This will avoid short circuits. Check your Kia Soul manual if you don’t know where the battery is or how to disconnect it.
Step 2: Get Access to the Sensor
Now open up your car and remove the starter motor. This will give you access to the sensor.
Step 3: Examine the Sensor Location
The sensor should be on the side of the block where the electrical connectors are attached. Use a bit of carburetor cleaner to clean the oil to get your hand on the sensor.
Step 4: Remove the Electrical Connector
If you look closely, you will see an electrical connector holding on to the sensor with a plastic clip. Pull it up or push it down to release the connector. Now wiggle it a bit to loosen it up from the sensor. You may need to use lubricant if it seems stuck.
Step 5: Remove the Sensor
Use a small wrench or socket to remove the 10mm bolt holding the sensor in its place. After that, proceed to remove the sensor. Remember, there is a long stem in the sensor and it may get stuck in the block.
You can use a small pick or a typical screwdriver to wedge beneath the sensor mounting tab and pry it loose. Don’t apply too much pressure here. Otherwise, the sensor will break.
Grasp the sensor and twist it once the sensor is loose. Now pull the sensor out from the engine block.
Step 6: Install the New Sensor
It’s time to get the new sensor back in its place.
Position the new crank sensor right into the sensor port hole. Now firmly push it into its place. Make sure to keep aligning the mounting plate hole. Now insert the mounting bolt properly.
Once the new sensor is fitted in its place, put everything back the way it was.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the symptoms of a failing crankshaft position sensor?
The main symptoms of a failing crankshaft position sensor are intermittent stalling, uneven acceleration, engine misfire, reduced mileage, and engine issues.
Can you drive with a messed-up crankshaft sensor?
While driving your car with a bad or faulty crankshaft sensor may be possible, it is recommended not to. Your car may stop in the mid-road with no help nearby.
Can a car run without a crankshaft position sensor?
It’s not possible for an engine to function without a crankshaft position sensor. In other words, no, a car can’t run without a crankshaft position sensor.
Conclusion
Kia Soul crankshaft sensor problems are easy to handle. Well, it’s true only if you are aware of the right information and proper approach. This article discussed just that.
If you have given this whole article a thorough read, you should now have no confusion about the probable problems of the Kia Soul crankshaft sensor and how to fix them. You have also learned to replace the crankshaft sensor right at home. This will surely save you tons of trouble and hundreds of dollars.
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Mike Right, is a seasoned automotive expert with an eminent career spanning over 9 years. His journey began as a mechanical engineer. But the man went with his passion to become the owner of a thriving auto repair shop in his community.
His share of experience has equipped him with unparalleled knowledge in handling cars. Especially when it comes to addressing engine-related issues. Now in his break, Mike graciously shares his wealth of experience-based knowledge with the VehiclesBro community.
Aside from his terrific role in our platform, Mike’s nurturing nature extends beyond vehicles. He enjoys mentoring and sharing stories. You’ll also find him enjoying the serenity of saltwater fishing and embarking on frequent short trips whenever given a chance.
He is a helpful person with a lot of stories to share with youngsters. Apart from writing for us, he loves to spend time saltwater fishing and would go on frequent short trips for that.
