The Top 10 Engine Sensors Every Car Owner Should Know

Engine sensors play a crucial role in optimizing car performance. From the Mass Airflow Sensor to the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor, understanding their functions and potential issues is essential for maintaining a smooth-running engine.

Engine sensors are electronic devices that gather data about various aspects of an engine's operation. They provide critical information to the engine control unit (ECU), which then adjusts the engine's performance parameters accordingly.

Here are 10 of the most useful sensors in a car and their functions:

• Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF): Measures the amount of air entering the engine to calculate the appropriate fuel injection.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, loss of power.

DTC Codes: P0100-P0104, P1100-P1106.

Read Also: Understanding the Mass Airflow Sensor: How It Works and Its Benefits

• Oxygen (O2) Sensor: Monitors the oxygen levels in the exhaust system to adjust fuel mixture for optimal combustion.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, engine misfires.

Read Also: 5 Things You Need to Know About Faulty Oxygen Sensors in Cars

DTC Codes: P0130-P0167.

• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Tracks the position of the throttle plate to regulate the throttle opening.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Poor acceleration, hesitation, unstable idle.

DTC Codes: P0120-P0124.

Read Also: Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): A Crucial Component for Engine Performance

• Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS): Measures the engine coolant temperature to aid in proper fuel delivery and cooling system control.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Engine overheating, inaccurate temperature readings, difficulty starting.

DTC Codes: P0115-P0119.

• Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): Detects the rotational speed and position of the crankshaft for ignition timing and fuel injection synchronization.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, misfires.

DTC Codes: P0335-P0339.

• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): Determines the position of the camshaft(s) for precise fuel injection and ignition timing.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Rough running, misfires, decreased power.

 DTC Codes: P0340-P0344.

Read Also: Automotive Sensor Wiring: A Comprehensive Guide to Major Sensors

• Knock Sensor (KS): Identifies engine knocking or detonation, allowing the ECU to adjust ignition timing to prevent damage.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, potential engine damage.

DTC Codes: P0325-P0332.

• Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor: Measures the intake manifold pressure to calculate engine load and adjust fuel delivery.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Poor acceleration, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency.

DTC Codes: P0105-P0109.

• Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor: Measures the temperature of incoming air to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Poor fuel economy, rough idling, decreased power.

DTC Codes: P0110-P0114.

• Throttle Pedal Position Sensor (TPP): Detects the position of the accelerator pedal to determine driver input for throttle control.

Effects of a Faulty Sensor: Reduced engine response, limp mode activation, intermittent acceleration issues.

DTC Codes: P2120-P2138.

The DTC codes mentioned are general references and may vary depending on the vehicle make, model, and year. 

Read Also: Unveiling Engine Sensors: Detecting Problems Before They Worsen

Engine Sensors: How They Monitor and Optimize Performance

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