Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor for the 1986-1997 Buick Regal
Everything you need to know about replacing the crankshaft position sensor on your 1986-1997 Buick Regal.
- A common failure on 1986-1997 Regals, especially with the 3.8L V6, is stalling when hot and not restarting until cool.
- Symptoms include no-start, stalling, rough idle, and a Check Engine Light with code P0335.
- Replacement requires removing the harmonic balancer, which can be difficult and requires a special puller tool.
- Due to the labor involved, using a high-quality OEM or premium aftermarket brand like ACDelco or Delphi is highly recommended.
Is Your Buick Regal Stalling or Hard to Start? It Could Be the Crank Sensor.
If you own a 1986-1997 Buick Regal, especially one with the 3.8L (3800) V6 engine, a failing crankshaft position sensor is a common problem you might face. This sensor is essential for engine operation, and when it starts to go bad, it can cause a range of frustrating issues, from a simple check engine light to leaving you stranded. A very common symptom for these engines is that the car runs fine when cold but stalls after it warms up, and then refuses to start again until it has cooled down.
Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
A bad crank sensor can mimic other problems, but here are the most common signs for the Buick Regal:
- Engine Won't Start: The engine will turn over (crank) but won't fire up. This is a classic sign because the computer doesn't know when to send spark and fuel.
- Stalling: The engine may stall unexpectedly, especially when it gets hot. It might also stall at idle or low speeds.
- Check Engine Light: A failing sensor will often trigger the check engine light and store a trouble code, most commonly P0335. 🎬 Watch: How to test the 3x and 18x sensor signals.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may shake, vibrate, or run poorly because the ignition timing is off.
- Poor Acceleration: You might notice the car feels sluggish or hesitates when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: When the engine isn't running efficiently due to bad timing, your gas mileage will suffer.
Known Issues for 3.8L V6 Engines
For the popular 3.8L V6 engine found in many Regals of this era, the crankshaft position sensor is a known failure point. A frequent complaint is "thermal failure," where the sensor works when the engine is cold but fails once it reaches operating temperature, causing a stall. The car often won't restart until the engine has cooled significantly. If you're experiencing this specific issue, the crank sensor is the most likely culprit.
🎬 See this quick fix for common 3800 stalling issues.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When replacing this part, you have a choice between OEM-level brands and more budget-friendly aftermarket options. For a critical sensor like this, quality matters.
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
- ACDelco: As the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for General Motors, ACDelco is the benchmark for quality and fit. Choosing ACDelco ensures you're getting a part that meets the original factory specifications.
- Delphi: Delphi was once part of GM and is widely considered an OEM-equivalent brand. Their sensors are known for high quality and reliability, often at a slightly lower price than ACDelco.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket
- NGK/NTK, Hitachi, Standard Motor Products (SMP): These are well-respected brands in the aftermarket that produce reliable sensors. They offer a good balance of quality and price.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
- Dorman, Walker, Spectra, and others: These brands provide a cost-effective solution. While they can be a good value, especially for an older vehicle, some professional technicians prefer to use OEM or premium brands for critical sensors to avoid the risk of premature failure.
Pro Tip: Because replacing the crankshaft sensor on the 3.8L V6 requires removing the harmonic balancer, it involves a fair amount of labor. To avoid doing the job twice, many owners and mechanics recommend spending a little more on a high-quality sensor from ACDelco or Delphi.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough on replacing the sensor and harmonic balancer.Typical Replacement Costs
The cost can vary depending on the brand you choose and local labor rates.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $16.43 - $114.95 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) Part | $80 - $120 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $170 - $370 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on my Buick Regal?
On the most common engine, the 3.8L V6, the crankshaft position sensor is located on the front of the engine block, behind the harmonic balancer (the main crankshaft pulley). This means the balancer must be removed to access and replace the sensor.
Can I replace the crankshaft position sensor myself?
This is a moderately difficult job for a DIY mechanic. It requires removing the serpentine belt and the harmonic balancer. Removing the balancer bolt can be difficult without an impact wrench, and you will need a special harmonic balancer puller tool. If you are not comfortable with this, it's best to leave it to a professional.
Are there any recalls for this part?
A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not show any specific recalls for the crankshaft position sensor on 1986-1997 Buick Regal models. However, always check for recalls using your vehicle's specific VIN.
What happens if I ignore a bad crank sensor?
Ignoring the symptoms can lead to more significant problems. You will experience poor engine performance, bad fuel economy, and could damage your catalytic converter from misfires. Most importantly, a completely failed sensor will prevent the engine from starting at all, potentially leaving you stranded.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 10456161 213-151 12585546 12703627
The sensor for the 3.8L V6 is a magnetic type that reads reluctor rings on the back of the harmonic balancer to determine crankshaft speed and position. It typically has a 3 or 4-pin electrical connector.
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.
- Buick Regal: