Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost: Fix Left Turning Clicking Noises

Hearing a clicking sound every time you turn left is unsettling. If a mechanic has tied that noise to your crankshaft position sensor, your next question is probably about cost. Knowing the crankshaft position sensor replacement cost for turning left clicking helps you budget the repair, avoid overpaying, and decide whether to tackle it yourself or hand it off to a shop. This article breaks down what you need to know.

Why Does a Crankshaft Position Sensor Cause Clicking When Turning Left?

The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) monitors the speed and position of your crankshaft and sends that data to the engine control module. When it fails or develops a loose connection, the engine can misfire, stumble, or stall. The clicking sound you hear when turning left often comes from the sensor's wiring getting pinched or stressed during suspension travel. As the vehicle leans right during a left turn, components shift, and a damaged sensor or its harness can tap against nearby parts.

This symptom is tricky because most people associate clicking with bad CV joints or tie rod ends. If those parts check out fine, a failing CKP sensor is worth investigating. You can learn more about how a bad crankshaft position sensor causes clicking only when turning left.

How Much Does Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Actually Cost?

The total cost depends on your vehicle make, model, labor rates in your area, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. Here are typical ranges:

Parts only: $15 to $100 for the sensor itself. Aftermarket sensors for common vehicles like a Honda Civic or Toyota Camry often fall in the $20 to $50 range. OEM sensors for European vehicles like BMW or Mercedes can run $60 to $120.
Labor: $50 to $200. Some CKP sensors sit in accessible spots near the engine block, while others require removing the starter, flywheel cover, or other components. A sensor on a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado might take 30 minutes, while one on an Audi A4 could take two hours.
Total at a shop: $100 to $350 for most vehicles. Luxury or high-performance cars can push the total to $400 or more.

For a full breakdown of pricing by vehicle type, see the crankshaft position sensor replacement cost guide for turning left clicking.

Is the Clicking Really From the Crankshaft Position Sensor?

Before you spend money on a replacement, confirm the diagnosis. A clicking noise during left turns has several possible causes:

CV joint or axle: The most common cause of clicking while turning. Usually gets louder during sharp turns at low speed.
Wheel bearing: Creates a grinding or clicking that changes with speed.
Loose heat shield or exhaust component: Can rattle against the frame during body roll.
CKP sensor or wiring: Clicks if the sensor body is loose, the mounting bracket is cracked, or the wiring harness rubs against a moving part.

A mechanic can use a scan tool to check for CKP-related trouble codes like P0335 or P0336. If you want to test the sensor yourself before committing to replacement, read about testing methods for the crankshaft position sensor when you hear a left turn click.

What Affects the Replacement Cost the Most?

Vehicle Make and Model

A CKP sensor on a Ford F-150 might cost $25 and sit right on the front of the engine. The same job on a Subaru Outback could require removing the intake manifold or other components, adding an hour of labor. German and luxury vehicles tend to have pricier parts and tighter engine bays.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

OEM sensors from the dealer cost more but are guaranteed to match factory specs. Aftermarket sensors from brands like Bosch, Standard Motor Products, or Dorman work well for most applications and save money. Avoid no-name sensors from unknown sellers a cheap sensor that fails in six months costs you double in labor.

Labor Rates by Region

Shop labor rates vary widely. A independent shop in a small town might charge $80 per hour, while a dealership in a major city can charge $150 to $200 per hour. Getting two or three quotes before authorizing work is always smart.

Can You Replace the Sensor Yourself?

If the sensor is accessible, yes. Many crankshaft position sensors are held in place with one or two bolts and a single electrical connector. Here's the general process:

Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Locate the CKP sensor (check your repair manual or an online forum for your specific vehicle).
Unplug the electrical connector.
Remove the mounting bolt(s).
Pull the old sensor out.
Install the new sensor with a fresh O-ring if applicable.
Reconnect everything and clear any diagnostic trouble codes.

The job usually takes 20 to 60 minutes for a home mechanic with basic hand tools. You'll save $50 to $200 in labor costs.

Common Mistakes People Make With This Repair

Replacing the sensor without diagnosing first. Swapping the CKP sensor when the real problem is a worn CV axle wastes money and leaves the actual issue unresolved. Always scan for codes and inspect the wiring before replacing parts.

Using the wrong sensor. CKP sensors come in different types magnetic, Hall-effect, and optical. Using the wrong type for your vehicle won't work and could set new codes. Match the part number to your exact year, make, model, and engine.

Ignoring the wiring harness. Sometimes the sensor itself is fine, but the wiring is chafed, corroded, or pinched. If the clicking started after hitting a pothole or speed bump too hard, inspect the harness before buying a new sensor.

Not clearing codes after replacement. The check engine light may stay on even after installing a new sensor if you don't clear the stored codes with an OBD-II scanner.

Tips to Keep Replacement Costs Down

Buy the sensor yourself online before going to the shop. Many shops mark up parts by 30 to 100 percent.
Ask the shop if they'll install a customer-supplied part. Some will, some won't but it doesn't hurt to ask.
If your vehicle has multiple engine configurations (like a 4-cylinder and a V6 option), double-check which sensor fits your engine before ordering.
Check if your vehicle is still under a powertrain warranty. CKP sensors are engine components and may be covered.
Look for recalls or technical service bulletins related to the CKP sensor on your specific vehicle. Some manufacturers have issued extended coverage for known sensor failures.

What Happens If You Ignore the Problem?

A failing CKP sensor won't fix itself. Over time, the problem usually gets worse. You may experience engine stalling at intersections, hard starting, rough idle, or a no-start condition. Driving with an unreliable CKP sensor is unsafe because the engine can shut off without warning especially in traffic.

The clicking sound itself may also indicate that a loose or damaged sensor is physically contacting rotating components, which could cause further damage to the sensor mounting area or wiring.

Quick Checklist Before You Book the Repair

✅ Have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic trouble codes (many auto parts stores do this free)
✅ Visually inspect the CKP sensor and wiring harness for damage, looseness, or corrosion
✅ Rule out CV joints, wheel bearings, and other common left-turn clicking causes
✅ Get at least two quotes from local shops, including one independent and one dealership
✅ Confirm the correct part number for your exact vehicle before purchasing
✅ Ask about warranty on both parts and labor
✅ If DIY, have an OBD-II scanner ready to clear codes after installation