Parts for your 2009 Holden Commodore-Crank angle sensor

2009 Holden Commodore crank angle sensor — what it is and why it matters

Based on technical references including the Holden VE Series Service Manual, GM Service Information (SI), AC Delco parts catalogues, Bosch Automotive Sensor Catalogue, and Ellery’s Holden Commodore VE 2006–2013 workshop manual, the 2009 Holden Commodore is fitted with a crankshaft position sensor (commonly called a crank angle sensor). This applies to the 3.6L Alloytec V6 engines and the 6.0L Gen IV V8s used in VE models. It’s a critical input for engine management, so it’s absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On a 2009 Commodore, the crank angle sensor constantly tracks the crank’s position and speed, feeding the ECU the timing it needs for spark and fuel. Without a clean signal, the ECU can’t sync ignition or injection properly, which is why a crook sensor can cause hard starting, random stalling, misfires, or a no-start. It also sets fault codes like P0335–P0339 when things go pear-shaped.

There’s no scheduled replacement for this sensor, it’s a sealed electronic part. During regular servicing, the smart play is to keep an eye out for oil leaks onto the sensor area, check the harness and connector for heat or chafe damage, and clear any built-up grime. If symptoms appear, get it scanned rather than guessing parts.

• Common clues: long crank when cold or hot, sudden stall at idle, uneven running, dead tach during crank, and MIL on with CKP codes.
• Location: on V6 models it’s mounted at the rear of the block near the bellhousing, on V8s it’s at the back of the block above/near the starter.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: disconnect the battery, safely raise the vehicle, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, twist and withdraw the sensor, lightly oil the new O-ring, install the new unit, and tighten to factory spec. Always inspect the reluctor area with a borescope if available, and tidy any loom hardening or heat damage while you’re there. Cheap, off-brand sensors can be false economy, OE-equivalent parts tend to give a cleaner signal and last longer.

After fitting, a crankshaft position variation learn (often called a CKP/CASE relearn) using a suitable scan tool (Tech 2, GDS, or equivalent) is recommended. The engine may run without it, but you risk drivability niggles and returning fault codes. If the car still cranks but won’t fire after replacement, recheck connector pin fit, earths, and that the sensor is fully seated with the correct O-ring.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2009 Commodore?
On the V6 Alloytec it’s tucked at the rear of the engine block near the bellhousing area, accessed from underneath. On the 6.0L V8 it sits at the back of the block, typically above or near the starter motor. Expect tight access, a small ratchet and good lighting help.

Do I need a relearn after replacing the sensor?
Yes, performing a crankshaft variation relearn with a capable scan tool is best practice. The car may start without it, but timing calculations won’t be spot-on and you can cop intermittent misfires or CKP-related fault codes until the relearn is done.

What symptoms point to a failing crank angle sensor?
Look for hard starting, random stalls, erratic tach during cranking, misfires at low speed, and the check engine light with codes like P0335. If it dies completely, you’ll often get a no-spark, no-start. Don’t keep driving if it’s stalling — get it checked before you’re stranded.