Your Selected Vehicle
Parts for your 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer-Crank angle sensor
Explore 4WD & Adventure
2010 Mitsubishi Lancer crank-angle-sensor: purpose, placement, and service tips
Technical sources confirm the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with a crank-angle-sensor (crankshaft position sensor). The Mitsubishi Lancer (CY) Workshop/Service Manual (2007–2013, Group 13A Engine Electrical), the Mitsubishi ASA/EPC parts catalogue, and diagnostic databases such as Autodata/ALLDATA that list DTCs P0335/P0336 for this model all identify a dedicated crankshaft position sensor on 4B11/4B12 engines (and 4B11T variants).
On the 2010 Lancer, the crank-angle-sensor keeps the ECU perfectly in sync with the crankshaft’s exact position and speed. It’s the timing heartbeat for spark and fuel injection, and it underpins smooth starting, clean idle, and accurate MIVEC control. If the signal disappears or goes erratic, the ECU can’t time ignition or injection properly, which often means a no-start or sudden stall.
- Typical symptoms: hard starting or no start, intermittent stalling at idle or when hot, rough running, misfires under load, tachometer dropping to zero, and stored codes like P0335/P0336.
- Location: commonly mounted at the rear of the engine block near the transmission bellhousing on 4B11/4B12, reading a toothed reluctor on the crank.
It’s not a routine service item, but it should be inspected if there are drivability issues. Oil leaks, heat, or a damaged harness/connector can upset its signal. When replacement is needed, a quality OE or reputable aftermarket sensor is the go-to, as signal quality matters for clean running.
- Disconnect the battery and let the vehicle sit a few minutes.
- Unplug the sensor connector and check the wiring for chafe or oil ingress.
- Remove the retaining bolt, withdraw the sensor, and confirm the O-ring came out with it.
- Lightly oil the new O-ring, install the sensor squarely, and tighten the bolt to the workshop manual torque.
- Route the loom exactly like factory to avoid heat or rubbing, reconnect, clear DTCs, and perform any idle/crank relearn if specified.
Owners should also rule out lookalike faults: low battery voltage, a failing cam sensor, poor grounds, or a slipped crank reluctor can trigger similar symptoms. For everyday reliability across Aussie and Kiwi conditions—from city commutes to long-country kilometres—keeping connectors clean and addressing any oil seep around the rear of the block will help this sensor live a long, drama-free life.
Popular questions
Where is the crank-angle-sensor on a 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer?
It’s typically mounted at the back of the engine block near the transmission bellhousing on 4B11/4B12 engines, secured by a single bolt. Access is from the engine bay, removing the air intake ducting can improve visibility under the bonnet.
Does a new crank-angle-sensor need programming?
The sensor itself isn’t coded, but after replacement it’s smart to clear fault codes and perform any idle or crank angle relearn the ECU calls for. Many scan tools provide this function, otherwise a short drive cycle can let the ECU re-adapt.
Is it safe to drive with a failing crank-angle-sensor?
Not really. Intermittent signals can cause sudden stalling or a no-start once hot, which is unsafe and can risk unburnt fuel damaging the catalytic converter. Best to get it diagnosed and sorted promptly.
