Parts for your 2013 Mazda Cx-5-Crank angle sensor

2013 Mazda CX-5 crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor) — purpose, servicing and replacement

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is fitted with a crank angle sensor, more commonly listed by Mazda as the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor. References include: Mazda Workshop Manual for the 2013 CX-5 (Engine Control System, CKP sensor), Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (CKP sensor part listings for SKYACTIV-G 2.0/2.5 and SKYACTIV-D 2.2), and Mazda SKYACTIV technical training materials describing crank and cam synchronisation for injection and ignition control. These sources establish that the sensor is essential to engine operation on this model.

On the 2013 CX-5, the crank angle sensor keeps the entire engine in step. It reads a toothed wheel on the crankshaft and feeds precise position and speed data to the ECU, so fuel injection and ignition timing land bang on. That means clean starts, smooth idle, solid mid‑range punch, and the fuel economy SKYACTIV engines are known for. Without a solid CKP signal, the ECU won’t trust timing — you’ll see hard starting, misfires, a random stall at the lights, or a no‑start with a check engine light and codes like P0335.

This sensor isn’t a routine “replace every X kilometres” item. It’s sealed and designed to last. As part of regular servicing, it’s smarter to prevent dramas: keep an eye out for oil leaks at the front timing cover, ensure loom clips are intact and the plug isn’t loose or green with corrosion, and maintain a healthy battery and clean engine earths. On petrol SKYACTIV-G variants it’s typically mounted at the front timing cover near the crank pulley, some diesel setups place it at the block/bellhousing interface. Either way, access is decent with the undertray off.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, swap the sensor, and torque to spec from the Mazda manual. There’s no shim game on SKYACTIV — the air gap is built in. After refitting, clear codes and check live data for a steady RPM signal during crank and idle. If a fresh sensor doesn’t fix an issue, check the harness for chafing, verify cam sensor sync, and scope the CKP waveform before pointing the finger at the ECU.

• Common symptoms of a failing CKP: intermittent stall, long crank, uneven idle, misfire under load, no‑start, and DTCs P0335–P0339.
• Good practice: use OEM‑quality parts, avoid cheap copies, and don’t ignore minor oil weeps near the sensor.
• Typical workshop time: about 0.5–1.0 hours depending on engine and access.

Back on the road, a healthy crank angle sensor keeps the CX-5 starting first turn, running smooth, and sipping fuel the way it should — just how drivers in Australia and New Zealand like it.

Popular questions about the 2013 Mazda CX-5 crank angle sensor

Where is the crank angle sensor located on a 2013 CX-5?
On most SKYACTIV-G petrol models it’s mounted on the front timing cover near the crank pulley, reading a reluctor on the crank. Some diesel configurations may place it at the block/bellhousing area. From under the bonnet or with the undertray off, the connector and retaining bolt are accessible.

Does the crank angle sensor need regular replacement?
No. It’s not a scheduled service item. Replace only if faulty or damaged. During servicing, inspect for oil contamination, wiring damage, or loose connectors. If you’re seeing long cranks, stalling or codes like P0335, test first, then replace with an OEM‑quality unit if confirmed faulty.

What does it cost to replace the sensor in AU/NZ?
Parts pricing varies with brand, genuine or premium aftermarket typically costs more but lasts. Allow roughly 0.5–1.0 hours labour in most workshops. Getting a quote with the VIN ensures the correct part and avoids repeat visits.