Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide for the 2011-2017 Buick Regal
Experiencing stalling or starting problems with your Buick Regal? Your crankshaft position sensor could be the culprit.
- A failing crankshaft sensor will cause serious drivability issues like stalling, hard starting, or a no-start condition.
- Do not ignore symptoms. A stalling engine is a major safety risk, and a complete failure will leave you stranded.
- For this critical part, choosing an OEM (ACDelco) or OE-equivalent (Delphi) brand is highly recommended for reliability.
- A crankshaft position variation relearn procedure with a scan tool is typically required after installation.
Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Sensor in a Buick Regal
A bad crankshaft position sensor can cause a range of problems, from annoying to serious. Because it provides such vital information, a failure will directly impact your car's performance. You might notice one or more of these signs:
🎬 Watch: A detailed breakdown of these 8 common sensor symptoms.- Check Engine Light: This is often the first warning. A scan tool will likely show code P0335, which points directly to a fault in the crankshaft sensor circuit.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly while you are driving or idling at a stoplight. This can be a dangerous situation.
- Hard Starting or No Start: Your Regal might take longer than usual to start, or it may just crank without ever firing up. This happens because the computer doesn't know when to create a spark.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may shake or run unevenly, especially when stopped. An incorrect sensor reading can cause the engine to misfire.
- Poor Acceleration: You may feel a noticeable lack of power when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: When ignition timing is off due to a bad sensor, your engine burns more fuel than necessary.
Can I Drive with a Bad Crankshaft Sensor?
It is not recommended. While the car might still run with early-stage sensor failure, the risk of the engine stalling in traffic is a serious safety concern. If the sensor fails completely, the engine will not start, leaving you stranded.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Crankshaft Sensor
When replacing this sensor, you have a choice between OEM and various aftermarket brands. For a critical component like this, quality matters.
- OEM/OE-Equivalent Brands (ACDelco, Delphi): ACDelco is the original GM parts brand, offering a guaranteed fit and performance. Delphi is a major original equipment (OE) supplier to GM, and their parts are considered to be of the same high quality. For maximum reliability, these are the top choices.
- Premium Aftermarket (NGK/NTK, Standard Ignition, Hitachi): Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP) and NGK have a long history of making reliable electronic components. They are generally considered a solid choice if you are looking for a balance between cost and quality.
- Standard Aftermarket (Dorman, Walker, Holstein): These brands offer a more budget-friendly option. Dorman is widely available and often provides a direct-fit replacement. However, with any value-oriented electronic part, there can be a higher chance of an out-of-the-box failure or shorter lifespan compared to premium brands.
Pro Tip: For a sensor this critical to engine operation, spending a little more on an OEM or premium aftermarket brand can prevent the headache of a premature failure and having to do the job twice.
Cost to Replace a Buick Regal Crankshaft Sensor
The cost will vary based on the part brand you choose and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part (ACDelco) | $60 - $95 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $21 - $87 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $121 - $275 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on a 2011-2017 Buick Regal?
The sensor is located on the engine block. On many GM Ecotec engines like the 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo found in the Regal, it is typically mounted near the bottom of the engine, sometimes near the oil filter housing or behind the starter motor. Access can be tight.
🎬 See this DIY tutorial for replacing the sensor on Ecotec engines.Are there any recalls for the crankshaft sensor on my Buick Regal?
No. As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from GM for crankshaft position sensor failure on the 2011-2017 Buick Regal.
Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause other parts to fail?
Yes. A continuous engine misfire caused by a bad sensor can, over time, damage the catalytic converter by allowing unburned fuel to enter the exhaust. This is a much more expensive repair.
Do I need to perform a 'relearn' procedure after replacing the sensor?
For most 2011-2017 Buick Regal models, a specific crankshaft position variation relearn procedure is required after replacing the sensor. This procedure uses a diagnostic scan tool to calibrate the new sensor to the engine computer. Failing to do this can result in a persistent Check Engine Light and rough running conditions.
🎬 Watch: How to perform a modern GM crank relearn procedure.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12588992 12674703 12674702 12627185 12632872
3-pin female connector, bolt-on mount type.
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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: