Loading...
Ford Explorer Engine Crankshaft Position Sensors
Ford Explorer Engine crankshaft position sensors
Starting at $8.95, AutoBuffy stocks 51 engine crankshaft position sensors from GPD, Motorcraft, and Standard Ignition for your Ford Explorer. The crankshaft position sensor monitors the rotational speed and position of the crankshaft, feeding real-time data to the ECU to control ignition timing and fuel injection. When it fails, the engine may stall, misfire, or refuse to start entirely.
Signs your Ford Explorer needs a new crankshaft position sensor
- Engine cranks but won't start — the ECU has no crank signal to trigger spark or injection
- Intermittent stalling at idle or while driving, often with no warning
- Check Engine light on with stored codes P0335, P0336, P0337, P0338, or P0339
- Rough idle or misfires that worsen as the engine reaches operating temperature
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration, especially under load
- Tachometer needle drops to zero or behaves erratically while the engine is running
Which crankshaft position sensor should you buy for your Ford Explorer?
Most Ford Explorer owners choose between an OEM-equivalent sensor and an OEM-sourced part. The key variables are connector type, harness length, and whether the sensor is a Hall-effect or magnetic reluctor style — both must match the original exactly or the ECU will not read the signal correctly.
OEM-Equivalent (aftermarket)
Best for
Budget-conscious owners who want a reliable fix without dealer pricing
What you get
Direct plug-and-play fit, matching connector and air gap spec, typically backed by a 1-year warranty
OEM / Dealer-Sourced
Best for
Owners who want factory-exact calibration or are under a service contract
What you get
Original manufacturer specification, precise signal output, longest expected service life
Remanufactured Sensor
Best for
Owners looking for a middle ground between cost and quality
What you get
Rebuilt to OEM spec, tested before sale, often available with a core return credit
Performance / High-Output Sensor
Best for
Modified engines with higher RPM ranges or forced induction
What you get
Stronger signal output, extended operating temperature range, designed for demanding duty cycles
| Option | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| OEM-Equivalent (aftermarket) | Budget-conscious owners who want a reliable fix without dealer pricing | Direct plug-and-play fit, matching connector and air gap spec, typically backed by a 1-year warranty |
| OEM / Dealer-Sourced | Owners who want factory-exact calibration or are under a service contract | Original manufacturer specification, precise signal output, longest expected service life |
| Remanufactured Sensor | Owners looking for a middle ground between cost and quality | Rebuilt to OEM spec, tested before sale, often available with a core return credit |
| Performance / High-Output Sensor | Modified engines with higher RPM ranges or forced induction | Stronger signal output, extended operating temperature range, designed for demanding duty cycles |
Engine crankshaft position sensors brands we stock for your Ford Explorer
GPD
9 options · from $12.95
Motorcraft
9 options · from $8.95
Standard Ignition
9 options · from $14.95
Delphi
7 options · from $17.95
Dorman
5 options · from $15.95
SKP
3 options · from $8.95
VEMO
3 options · from $9.95
Beck/Arnley
2 options · from $25.95
Denso
2 options · from $27.95
Wagner
2 options · from $16.95
Replacing the crankshaft position sensor on a Ford Explorer
Easy⏱ 30 minutes – 1.5 hoursSocket set and ratchetFlathead and Phillips screwdriversOBD-II scan tool (for code clearing and relearn procedure if required)Electrical contact cleanerFlashlight or work light
On most vehicles, the crankshaft position sensor is secured by one or two bolts and unplugs with a single wiring harness connector, making replacement straightforward for a home mechanic. Access difficulty varies — sensors mounted near the front of the block are typically easy to reach, while those located near the transmission bellhousing or beneath exhaust shielding require more disassembly. After installing the new sensor, clear any stored fault codes and perform a crankshaft relearn procedure if your Ford Explorer calls for one before returning it to normal operation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace crankshaft position sensors on a Ford Explorer?
The part alone starts at $8.95 on AutoBuffy. Total replacement cost depends on labor rates in your area and sensor location — some are accessible in under 30 minutes, while others buried near the flywheel or beneath exhaust components can add significant shop time. DIY installation keeps costs to the part price only.
Can I drive my Ford Explorer with a bad crankshaft position sensor?
In most cases, no. A failing crankshaft position sensor can cause sudden stalling without warning, which is a safety risk at highway speeds. Some vehicles enter a limp-home mode and run poorly but stay drivable; others simply will not start. Replace the sensor as soon as symptoms appear to avoid being stranded.
Will a bad crankshaft position sensor always trigger a Check Engine light on a Ford Explorer?
Not always. Intermittent sensor faults may not set a code immediately, especially if the signal drops out briefly and recovers. You may experience stalling or hard starts before any code appears. If symptoms point to the sensor, it is worth testing it directly with a scan tool rather than waiting for a code to confirm the fault.
Do I need to relearn or reprogram the crankshaft position sensor after replacing it on a Ford Explorer?
Some vehicles require a crankshaft position system variation relearn procedure after sensor replacement, particularly those with variable valve timing or returnless fuel systems. This procedure is typically performed with a scan tool and involves running the engine through a specific RPM cycle. Check whether your Explorer requires this step before returning the vehicle to service.
What is the difference between a crankshaft position sensor and a camshaft position sensor on a Ford Explorer?
The crankshaft position sensor tracks the rotation of the crankshaft and is the primary signal the ECU uses for ignition timing and fuel injection. The camshaft position sensor monitors the camshaft and helps the ECU identify which cylinder is on its compression stroke. Both sensors work together; a fault in either one can cause similar symptoms including misfires and stalling.
How long does a crankshaft position sensor last on a Ford Explorer?
Crankshaft position sensors are generally durable components with no scheduled replacement interval, but they can degrade from heat exposure, vibration, and oil contamination over time. Many sensors last the life of the vehicle; others begin to fail after many years of use. Symptoms such as intermittent stalling or hard starts are the most common indicators that replacement is due.