Parts for your 2009 Holden Barina-Crank angle sensor

2009 Holden Barina crank-angle-sensor (CKP) — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2009 Holden Barina uses a crank-angle-sensor, more commonly listed in Holden and GM literature as the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP). Technical sources including the Holden Barina TK Workshop Manual (Engine Controls, Section 6E) and GM TIS service information for the TK/T250 platform (1.6L E-TEC II/F16D3) specify the CKP for ignition and fuel timing, and list related fault codes such as P0335/P0336. Wiring diagrams and diagnostic charts in these sources show the CKP as a critical input to the engine control module.

On the 2009 Barina, the crank-angle-sensor is the engine’s timekeeper. It reads the crankshaft’s position and speed so the ECU knows exactly when to fire the spark plugs and when to inject fuel. Without a clean signal from this sensor, the engine can misfire, run rough, or not start at all. It’s a small part with a big job, and the Barina won’t play nice if it’s not happy.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the CKP on a Barina, it’s a “replace on condition” item. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check for oil leaks onto the sensor or its connector, make sure the wiring isn’t chafed, and scan for pending fault codes even if the dash light isn’t on. A quick visual from under the car and a code scan can save a roadside headache.

When a CKP starts failing, the Barina may show these behaviours:

• Hard starting or intermittent no-start when hot
• Stalling at idle or at lights
• Misfire, rough running, or sudden loss of power
• Check Engine light with P0335/P0336 stored

Replacement is usually straightforward for a qualified tech: disconnect the battery, access the sensor at the lower engine (location can vary slightly by engine code, typically at the block near the crank or bellhousing), remove its retaining bolt, swap the sensor and O-ring, then route and clip the harness away from heat. A quick relearn or drive cycle may be needed so the ECU re-establishes its timing trims. It’s worth using a quality sensor that matches OE specs, cheap units can cause erratic signals.

If the Barina has racked up plenty of kilometres, pairing CKP replacement with an oil leak fix (like a cam cover or crank seal) helps keep the new sensor clean. And if a CKP fault pops up, check the connector and wiring before condemning the sensor—poor contacts are a common culprit.

Popular questions

Where is the crank-angle-sensor on a 2009 Holden Barina?
It’s mounted low on the engine, reading a toothed wheel on the crank. On most TK/T250 Barinas it’s accessed from underneath, near the crank pulley or bellhousing area, secured by a single bolt with a sealed O-ring. Exact spot can vary slightly by engine code, so a workshop manual or a quick visual under the car helps.

What are the signs my Barina’s crank-angle-sensor is failing?
Common signs include hard starting (especially when hot), random stalling, rough idle, misfires, and the Check Engine light with codes like P0335. Intermittent cut-outs that resolve after a cool-down are classic CKP behaviour.

Can I keep driving with a bad crank-angle-sensor?
It’s risky. The Barina may stall without warning or refuse to restart, which isn’t ideal in traffic. If faults or symptoms appear, get it checked promptly—often a quick diagnosis will confirm whether it’s the sensor, wiring, or a related issue.