Chevrolet Captiva Sport Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide (2008-2015)
Address stalling, no-starts, and poor performance in your Captiva Sport by understanding and choosing the right crankshaft sensor.
- A failing crankshaft sensor can cause critical issues like engine stalling or a no-start condition.
- For best results, choose an OEM-quality brand like ACDelco or Delphi, or a reputable aftermarket brand like Standard Motor Products.
- After replacement, a 'crankshaft variation relearn' procedure using a scan tool is necessary for the engine to run correctly.
- Symptoms include a check engine light with codes P0335 or P0336, rough running, and poor acceleration.
Is Your Captiva Sport Stalling or Not Starting?
A failing crankshaft position sensor is a common reason for engine problems in the 2008-2015 Chevrolet Captiva Sport. This small sensor plays a huge role in how your engine runs. When it starts to fail, it can send wrong signals or no signal at all to the engine's computer. This can cause anything from a rough idle to the engine shutting off while you're driving. Because a complete failure can leave you stranded, it's important to address the symptoms as soon as they appear.
🎬 Watch: Common symptoms of a failing crankshaft position sensor.Known Issues & Recalls
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not find any specific recalls or widespread technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the crankshaft position sensor on the 2008-2015 Chevrolet Captiva Sport. However, owners have reported common failure symptoms like stalling and no-start conditions which often lead to replacing this sensor.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Crankshaft Sensor
When replacing the crankshaft sensor, you have a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and various aftermarket brands. For a critical sensor like this, quality matters.
- Tier 1 (OEM & OEM-Equivalent): ACDelco is GM's official parts brand, and choosing their GM Original Equipment line ensures you get the part your vehicle was built with. Delphi is often the company that makes the original sensor for GM, so their parts are considered OEM-quality as well. For reliability, these are your top choices.
- Tier 2 (High-Quality Aftermarket): Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP), NGK/NTK, and Hitachi have a strong reputation for producing reliable sensors that meet or exceed OEM standards. They are a solid choice if an OEM part isn't available or if you're looking for a balance of quality and price.
- Tier 3 (Value Aftermarket): Brands like Dorman and other store brands offer a cost-effective solution. While they often come with good warranties, some professional mechanics report a higher failure rate compared to OEM or Tier 2 brands. They can be a viable option, but for a part that can leave you stranded, investing in a higher-tier brand is often recommended.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $21.18 - $54.35 |
| New OEM (ACDelco/GM Genuine) | $35 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $140 - $250 |
A Note on the Crankshaft Relearn Procedure
After replacing the crankshaft position sensor on your Captiva Sport, a "crankshaft position variation relearn" procedure is often required. This process calibrates the new sensor with the engine computer. Without it, you may still have a check engine light (with code P1336) or rough running issues. While some older vehicles could relearn on their own, most modern GM vehicles, including the Captiva Sport, require a bi-directional scan tool to perform this procedure correctly. If you don't have access to one, a repair shop can perform the relearn for you.
🎬 Watch: How the modern GM crankshaft relearn procedure works.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the Captiva Sport's crankshaft sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with basic mechanical skills. The sensor is usually held by one bolt and is located on the lower part of the engine block. Access can be tight, and you may need to work from underneath the vehicle. 🎬 See this walkthrough for removing and replacing the sensor. The most difficult part for a DIYer is the required relearn procedure, which needs a special scan tool.
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on the Captiva Sport?
The location can vary slightly depending on your engine (2.4L or 3.0L), but it is generally found on the lower portion of the engine block, near the transmission bell housing or the main crankshaft pulley. A repair manual for your specific year and engine will show the exact location.
What happens if I don't do the relearn procedure?
If the relearn procedure is not performed, the engine computer may not get an accurate signal from the new sensor. This can cause the check engine light to stay on, the engine to run rough, have poor acceleration, and fail an emissions test.
Should I buy the cheapest sensor available?
While tempting, it's often not the best idea for a critical sensor. Some very cheap sensors can be unreliable or fail prematurely, causing the same problems to return. Sticking with an OEM or reputable aftermarket brand like ACDelco, Delphi, or Standard Motor Products is a safer investment.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12674703 213-4573
This is typically a magnetic or Hall-effect sensor that reads a reluctor wheel on the crankshaft. It uses a 3-pin connector. The part may require a specific air gap when installed, but most are a direct-fit design with a fixed position.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chevrolet Captiva Sport: