Parts for your 2013 Holden Colorado-Crank angle sensor

2013 Holden Colorado crank angle sensor: what it does and how to look after it

Based on factory technical sources — notably the Holden/GM RG Colorado (2012–2016) workshop manual sections for Engine Controls and the ACDelco parts catalogue — the 2013 Holden Colorado is fitted with a crank angle sensor (also called a crankshaft position or CKP sensor). These references list diagnostic procedures and a service replacement part for the CKP sensor on both the 2.8‑litre turbo‑diesel and applicable petrol variants, so it’s definitely relevant on this model year.

The crank angle sensor is the engine’s timekeeper. It reads a toothed wheel on the crankshaft and tells the ECU exactly where the pistons are and how fast they’re spinning. On the diesel Colorado, the ECU uses that signal to control injection timing and fuel delivery, on petrol versions it also lines up spark timing. If the CKP signal drops out, the ute can be a no‑start, stall, or drop into limp mode. It also works in tandem with the cam sensor for accurate synchronisation and smooth running.

Typical signs it’s on the way out include:

• Intermittent no‑start when hot, stalling, or long crank
• Rough idle, poor performance, high fuel use
• Check Engine Light with codes such as P0335/P0336

On the 2.8‑litre turbo‑diesel, the sensor is usually mounted low on the block where it reads the crank/flywheel area, access is commonly from underneath. Petrol variants often place it near the front timing cover. Always confirm by VIN in the service manual.

As part of regular servicing, there’s no scheduled replacement interval for the CKP sensor — it’s a replace‑on‑failure item — but a quick visual of the loom and connector is smart: look for oil wicking, damaged insulation, loose pins, and metal debris around the sensor tip. Keeping the area clean and fixing any oil leaks will help the sensor live a long life.

When replacement is needed, the usual steps are: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, withdraw the sensor, lightly oil the new O‑ring, install and tighten to manufacturer spec, reconnect, then clear fault codes. Many Colorados require a crankshaft variation learn (relearn) with a scan tool after fitting, skipping that can leave a rough idle or fresh fault codes. Quality matters here — genuine or reputable OE‑equivalent sensors tend to give the most reliable signal. If faults persist after replacement, check power, earth, and signal wiring back to the ECU before calling the computer bad.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2013 Holden Colorado?
On most 2.8‑litre turbo‑diesels it sits low on the engine block reading the crank/flywheel near the transmission bellhousing, accessible from underneath. Petrol variants are commonly at the front near the timing cover. Exact location can vary by engine code, so confirming via the RG workshop manual or a VIN‑based parts lookup is the safest bet.

Do crank angle sensors need regular servicing?
There’s no routine service interval. They’re sealed and maintenance‑free, but it’s wise during services to inspect the connector and harness for oil contamination or chafing, and to clean away built‑up grime. If replaced, many models require a crank variation relearn with a scan tool for best results.

What are the symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor?
Drivers often notice intermittent hot no‑start, random stalling, rough idle, misfires, or poor fuel economy. The Check Engine Light may appear with codes such as P0335/P0336. Because the ECU relies on this signal to time fuel (and spark on petrol engines), a bad CKP can stop the ute from starting altogether.