How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Crankshaft Sensor?

Replacing a crankshaft position sensor typically costs between $150 and $400 in total at a repair shop in the U.S., with parts usually running from $40 to $150 and labor from $80 to $300 depending on the vehicle and local labor rates. The final price varies by make and model, how difficult the sensor is to access, and whether any related issues are found during diagnosis.

What the Crankshaft Sensor Does—and Why It Matters

The crankshaft position sensor monitors the precise position and speed of the crankshaft and sends that data to the engine control unit (ECU). The ECU uses this information to time fuel injection and ignition, which means a failing sensor can cause hard starts, stalling, misfires, and poor fuel economy. When it fails completely, the engine may not start at all.

Typical Cost Range for Crankshaft Sensor Replacement

While the exact figure depends on your vehicle and location, most drivers will see a bill within a fairly predictable range. Below is a breakdown of the common cost bands you can expect at independent shops and dealerships.

• Economy cars (many Hondas, Toyotas, Hyundais, Nissans, Fords, etc.): About $150–$300 total
• Mid-range sedans/SUVs (Subaru, Mazda, VW, larger Toyotas/Fords): About $180–$350 total
• Luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus, etc.): Typically $250–$500, sometimes higher
• Trucks and performance vehicles: About $200–$450, depending on access and engine layout
• Dealership vs. independent shop: Dealers often charge 20–50% more in labor than local independents

These ranges assume a straightforward replacement with no additional major issues discovered; complex diagnostics or other repairs can add to the total cost.

Parts vs. Labor: Where the Money Goes

Understanding how the bill breaks down helps you judge if a quote is reasonable and where you might save money.

Parts Cost

Crankshaft position sensors themselves are generally not expensive components, but cost varies by brand, quality, and sensor design.

• Aftermarket sensors: Around $40–$100 for most common vehicles
• OEM (original equipment manufacturer) sensors: Typically $70–$150, sometimes more for luxury or rare models
• High-end / dealer-only sensors: Can run up to $200+ in some European or specialty vehicles

Choosing between OEM and aftermarket often balances cost against reliability; many independent shops use quality aftermarket parts with warranties comparable to OEM.

Labor Cost

Labor is usually the larger portion of the bill, and it swings widely depending on how the sensor is mounted and how much needs to be removed to reach it.

• Typical labor time: 0.5 to 2.0 hours for most cars
• Labor rates: Usually $80–$175 per hour at independent shops; $130–$250 per hour at many dealerships in higher-cost regions
• Total labor cost: Roughly $80–$300 depending on complexity and shop type
• Easy-access sensors: Near the bottom/front of the engine, often under 1 hour of work
• Hard-to-reach sensors: Hidden by engine mounts, intake manifolds, or transmission components, potentially 2+ hours

On many mainstream cars, the job is on the easier side, but some tightly packaged or older engines require more disassembly and therefore more labor cost.

Cost by Vehicle Type and Brand

Because engine layouts and parts pricing differ across manufacturers, certain brands tend to cluster in specific cost ranges. The following is a general guide rather than an exact quote.

• Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Ford, Chevy (common models): ~$150–$300
• Subaru, Mazda, VW: ~$180–$350
• BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Jaguar: ~$250–$500, especially at dealerships
• Full-size trucks and SUVs (F-150, Silverado, Ram, etc.): ~$200–$400, depending on engine size and access
• Sports / performance cars: ~$250–$500+ if access is tight or components must be removed

The easiest way to narrow in on your cost is to get a vehicle-specific estimate using your car’s year, make, model, and engine size from at least two local shops.

Additional Costs That Can Affect the Final Bill

What seems like a simple sensor replacement can sometimes turn into a more involved job if related issues are present. These add-ons are not guaranteed but are common enough to be aware of.

• Diagnostic fee: $80–$150 to scan codes, test signals, and confirm the sensor is the actual problem
• Connector or wiring repairs: If corrosion, broken wires, or melted harnesses are found, add $50–$250+
• Crankshaft reluctor ring / tone wheel damage: Rare, but if damaged, repair can be hundreds more because it may involve significant disassembly
• Related sensors or components: Occasionally, shops recommend replacing a nearby camshaft sensor at the same time for preventive maintenance, adding $100–$300
• Tow truck costs: If the car will not start, towing can add $75–$200 depending on distance

Asking the shop to separate the diagnostic fee, parts, and labor on your estimate helps you see exactly what you are paying for and where unexpected costs are coming from.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

Some owners consider replacing a crankshaft sensor themselves to save on labor, but the decision depends heavily on your comfort level with tools and the layout of your particular engine.

DIY Cost and Considerations

For the mechanically inclined, doing this repair at home can significantly cut the overall expense.

• DIY parts cost: Typically $40–$150 for the sensor
• Tool requirements: Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, possibly extensions and a jack/jack stands)
• Time needed: 30 minutes to 2 hours for most vehicles, longer if access is poor
• Risks: Incorrect installation, damage to connectors, or misdiagnosis (replacing the sensor when another issue is to blame)
• Information needs: A vehicle-specific repair guide or reliable online instructions, plus torque specs if required

DIY is most realistic when the sensor is easily accessible and you have some prior experience with engine bay work; otherwise, the risk of missteps may outweigh the savings.

Why Many Drivers Still Choose a Shop

Even with modest parts costs, many owners opt for a professional mechanic because of the diagnostic process and warranty.

• Accurate diagnosis: Shops can confirm whether the crankshaft sensor is actually the root cause of symptoms
• Warranty: Many shops offer 12-month/12,000-mile or better coverage on parts and labor
• Special tools: Professional scan tools can check live data and confirm proper sensor operation
• Safety and convenience: No need to work under the car or manage towing and troubleshooting yourself

For drivers with limited mechanical experience, paying for skilled labor often avoids repeat repairs and additional parts swapping.

How to Get a Fair Price and a Reliable Repair

Because quotes vary, a bit of preparation can protect your wallet and ensure you get the problem properly fixed.

• Get multiple estimates: Call at least two or three shops with your vehicle details and code/symptoms
• Ask for a line-item quote: Request separate prices for diagnostic, parts, and labor
• Confirm parts type: Ask whether the shop uses OEM or aftermarket and what warranty applies
• Check reviews and certifications: Look for ASE-certified technicians and consistent customer feedback
• Describe symptoms clearly: Note when the problem happens (hot/cold, highway/city, starting vs. driving)

A transparent, detailed estimate and a reputable shop are as important as the price number itself, especially for intermittent sensor-related issues.

What Happens If You Ignore a Bad Crankshaft Sensor?

Delaying replacement to avoid the cost can lead to bigger problems than the initial repair bill.

• Sudden stalling: The engine can cut out while driving, creating a safety hazard
• No-start condition: The vehicle may eventually refuse to start at all
• Rough running and misfires: Poor timing can damage catalytic converters over time
• Increased fuel consumption: Incorrect timing can hurt fuel efficiency
• Additional diagnostic costs: Intermittent failures can lead to multiple shop visits if not addressed promptly

In many cases, fixing a failing crankshaft sensor early is cheaper and safer than waiting until the car leaves you stranded.

Summary

Most crankshaft sensor replacements cost between $150 and $400, with parts usually in the $40–$150 range and labor making up the rest. Vehicle type, sensor accessibility, and local labor rates have the biggest impact on the final price, while extra diagnostic time or wiring repairs can add to the bill. DIY replacement can significantly reduce costs for those comfortable working on cars, but professional diagnosis and repair provide warranty protection and help ensure that the sensor is truly the source of the problem. For anyone experiencing stalling, hard starts, or related engine trouble, addressing a suspect crankshaft sensor promptly is generally a cost-effective move compared with the risks of waiting.