Chevrolet Colorado Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide: 2014-2024
Having trouble starting your Colorado or dealing with a rough idle? Your crankshaft position sensor might be the culprit.
- A bad crankshaft sensor is a common cause for a crank-no-start condition, stalling, and rough running on a Chevrolet Colorado.
- For reliability, choose premium aftermarket brands like ACDelco, Delphi, or NTK, which are often original equipment suppliers.
- On 2.8L Duramax and 3.6L V6 models, a damaged reluctor wheel can cause the same symptoms and codes (P0336) as a bad sensor, requiring a more complex repair.
- After replacement, a crankshaft position relearn procedure with a scan tool is recommended to ensure accuracy and prevent future codes.
Is Your Colorado Stalling or Hard to Start?
A failing crankshaft position sensor can cause a range of frustrating problems for 2014-2024 Chevrolet Colorado owners. These issues often start small but can lead to your truck not starting at all, leaving you stranded. Symptoms can sometimes be intermittent, appearing when the engine gets hot and disappearing after it cools down. Recognizing the signs early can save you from a tow truck bill.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft Sensor
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. The computer will store a trouble code, typically P0335 or P0336.
- Engine Won't Start: The engine will crank over with the starter, but it won't fire up because the ECM isn't getting the signal it needs to enable spark and fuel.
- Intermittent Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly while driving, especially after it has warmed up.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: Your truck may shake or vibrate at a stop, and you might feel the engine stumbling.
- Poor Acceleration: A bad sensor signal can cause the truck to feel sluggish and unresponsive when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: When ignition and fuel timing are off, your engine burns more fuel than necessary.
Special Note for 2.8L Duramax and 3.6L V6 Owners
For the 2.8L Duramax engine, a common problem that mimics a bad crankshaft sensor is a failed or broken crankshaft reluctor ring, which can trigger a P0336 code. Similarly, a GM service bulletin notes that the reluctor ring can move on some 3.6L V6 engines, causing timing-related codes. These issues are more complex to repair than the sensor itself and require a correct diagnosis.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to critical sensors, quality matters. While an OEM part from the dealer is always an option, the aftermarket offers several tiers of quality and price.
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
Brands like ACDelco GM Original Equipment, Delphi, NGK/NTK, and Hitachi are often the original manufacturers for General Motors. Choosing one of these brands is the closest you can get to the factory part and ensures the best compatibility and longevity. Forum users and mechanics frequently recommend NTK as a top-quality choice for sensors.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
Brands such as Standard Motor Products (SMP), Dorman, and Spectra are well-established in the aftermarket. They offer a good balance of quality and price, often with warranties that provide peace of mind. Dorman is known for sometimes re-engineering parts to improve on the original design.
Tier 3: Value Brands
Companies like Walker Products, Holstein, and Global Parts offer budget-friendly options. These can be a good choice if you need to get your truck back on the road without spending a lot, but they may not offer the same long-term durability as premium brands.
Pro Tip: What is a Relearn Procedure?
After replacing the crankshaft position sensor, your Colorado may require a "Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn" procedure. This procedure, done with a compatible scan tool, calibrates the new sensor to the engine's reluctor wheel, ensuring accurate readings and preventing future trouble codes. While not always required for the truck to run, it is highly recommended to prevent future Check Engine lights.
Cost to Replace a Chevrolet Colorado Crankshaft Sensor
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $22 - $87 |
| New OEM Part | $60 - $110 |
| Shop Labor | $90 - $180 |
| Total (DIY) | $22 - $87 |
| Total (Installed at Shop) | $112 - $297 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my Colorado with a bad crankshaft sensor?
It is not recommended. If the sensor is failing intermittently, it could cause the engine to stall in traffic, which is dangerous. If the sensor has failed completely, your truck will not start at all, leaving you stranded.
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on the 2014-2024 Colorado?
The location varies slightly depending on the engine (2.5L, 3.6L, 2.8L Diesel, or 2.7L Turbo). Generally, it is mounted on the engine block, near the rear of the engine on the driver's side. Access is often through the driver's side wheel well. Always consult a repair manual for your specific year and engine.
Are there any recalls for this part?
No. As of early 2026, there are no active NHTSA recalls specifically for the crankshaft position sensor on the 2014-2024 Chevrolet Colorado.
Is ACDelco Gold the same as the original part?
Not exactly. "ACDelco GM Original Equipment" is the factory-installed part. "ACDelco Gold" is ACDelco's high-quality aftermarket line, designed to be a competitive replacement but may be sourced from different manufacturers than the original.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12674702 55593759 12646781 213-4573
Typically a 3-pin magnetic or Hall effect sensor that reads a reluctor wheel on the crankshaft. The specific part number varies by engine (2.5L, 3.6L, 2.8L, 2.7L) and model year.
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 Colorado:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Colorado Stalling or Hard to Start?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft Sensor
- Special Note for 2.8L Duramax and 3.6L V6 Owners
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Pro Tip: What is a Relearn Procedure?
- Cost to Replace a Chevrolet Colorado Crankshaft Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off