Parts for your 1991 Suzuki Swift-Crank angle sensor

1991 Suzuki Swift crank-angle sensor – what it does and how to look after it

Based on factory literature and common parts catalogues (Suzuki Swift/Cultus Workshop Manual, 1989–1994, Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue, and the Haynes Repair Manual for Suzuki Swift/Geo Metro), the 1991 Suzuki Swift does use a crank-angle signal. On these models the crank-angle sensor is integrated into the distributor assembly rather than mounted at the crank pulley. Both the G10 (1.0L) and G13 (1.3L, including GTi) engines rely on this distributor-mounted angle sensor to provide the ECU and ignition module with engine speed and position. So yes—this part is relevant to a 1991 Swift.

The crank-angle sensor’s job is to tell the ECU exactly where the engine is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning. That info is what the Swift uses to fire the spark at the right moment and, on EFI variants, to time fuel injection. If the signal goes walkabout, you’ll often get hard starts, random stalling, misfires under load, or a dead tachometer. In many cases the ECU will flag a fault for a missing or erratic engine-speed/position signal.

Because the sensor lives inside the distributor, it shares the same environment as the cap, rotor, and shaft seal. Heat and oil vapour are the big enemies. As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to:

• Inspect the distributor plug and wiring for brittleness, green crusties, or chafing.
• Check for oil inside the distributor—replace the O-ring/shaft seal if you see contamination.
• Renew the cap and rotor at recommended intervals and keep moisture out.
• Gently clean the sensor area if accessible, avoid solvents on optical or magnetic elements.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools:

1. Disconnect the battery negative and mark the distributor’s position relative to the head for timing.
2. Remove the cap and rotor, unplug the harness.
3. On many Swifts, the sensor is a serviceable plate/module inside the distributor. If it’s fiddly or badly worn, replacing the whole distributor assembly is often the most reliable fix.
4. Refit, align to your marks, then set base ignition timing to factory spec with a timing light (bridge the diagnostic/check connector as per the workshop manual).

There’s no strict replacement interval for the crank-angle sensor—treat it as “inspect every 40–60,000 kilometres” when you’re doing plugs, leads, and distributor cap/rotor. If the car cuts out when hot and restarts when cool, or the tacho drops to zero during a misfire, put the sensor high on the suspect list. Use quality OEM or reputable aftermarket parts, and don’t forget a fresh distributor O-ring to keep the Aussie/Kiwi climate out from under the bonnet.

Popular questions about 1991 Suzuki Swift crank-angle sensors

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 1991 Swift?
On 1991 models it’s integrated into the distributor rather than bolted to the crank. Pop the distributor cap and you’ll find the sensor module/plate inside. Many parts catalogues list it as a crank-angle or cam-angle sensor because it’s driven off the cam but provides the crank/cylinder position signal the ECU expects.

What are the common symptoms of a failing sensor?
Typical signs include intermittent no-start, sudden stalling when warm, rough idle, misfire under acceleration, and an erratic or dead tacho. You might also see an ECU fault code for missing engine-speed/position. Oil inside the distributor or heat-soaked wiring often goes hand-in-hand with these faults.

Should the sensor be replaced on its own or with the distributor?
If the distributor bearings and shaft seal are tidy, swapping just the sensor module can be cost-effective. If there’s end play, oil ingress, or cracked wiring, a complete distributor assembly is usually the smarter long-term fix. After either job, always verify base timing with a timing light.