06/16/2025
Engine Sensors
Engine sensors are vital electronic components that monitor various aspects of an engine's operation. They collect essential data and relay it to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which then adjusts the engine's performance parameters for optimal efficiency and functionality.
Top 10 Essential Engine Sensors and Their Functions
Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
Measures the volume of air entering the engine to ensure the correct fuel-to-air ratio.
Fault Symptoms: Reduced fuel efficiency, rough idle, power loss.
DTC Codes: P0100–P0104, P1100–P1106.
Oxygen (O2) Sensor
Analyzes oxygen levels in the exhaust to optimize combustion through fuel mixture adjustments.
Fault Symptoms: Lower fuel economy, increased emissions, engine misfires.
DTC Codes: P0130–P0167.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
Monitors the throttle plate’s position to regulate airflow into the engine.
Fault Symptoms: Sluggish acceleration, hesitation, unstable idle.
DTC Codes: P0120–P0124.
Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS)
Measures the temperature of engine coolant, helping manage fuel delivery and cooling systems.
Fault Symptoms: Engine overheating, inaccurate temperature readings, hard starting.
DTC Codes: P0115–P0119.
Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
Tracks the crankshaft's speed and position to control ignition timing and synchronize fuel injection.
Fault Symptoms: Engine stalling, no-start conditions, misfires.
DTC Codes: P0335–P0339.
Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP)
Detects the position of the camshaft(s) to ensure accurate fuel injection and ignition timing.
Fault Symptoms: Engine misfires, reduced power, rough running.
DTC Codes: P0340–P0344.
Knock Sensor (KS)
Detects engine knocking or detonation and signals the ECU to adjust ignition timing to prevent damage.
Fault Symptoms: Lower engine performance, higher fuel consumption, potential engine damage.
DTC Codes: P0325–P0332.
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
Monitors the intake manifold pressure to estimate engine load and adjust fuel delivery accordingly.
Fault Symptoms: Hesitation, poor acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency.
DTC Codes: P0105–P0109.
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
Measures the temperature of incoming air to optimize ignition timing and fuel delivery.
Fault Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, loss of power, rough idle.
DTC Codes: P0110–P0114.
Throttle Pedal Position (TPP) Sensor
Detects the accelerator pedal position to determine driver input for throttle control.
Fault Symptoms: Weak engine response, limp mode activation, irregular acceleration.
DTC Codes: P2120–P2138.
Note: DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) mentioned are general references and may vary depending on the make, model, and year of the vehicle.