Parts for your 2014 Holden Astra-Crank angle sensor

2014 Holden Astra crank angle sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2014 Holden Astra uses a crank angle sensor (also called a crankshaft position sensor or CKP). Technical sources including GM Global Service Information (SI) list a dedicated “Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement” procedure for Astra J/PJ models, and the GM EPC shows a CKP sensor for the 1.4T (A14NET) and 1.6 engines used in this era (common GM part numbers include 55565708 and 55573248). Trade data sets such as Autodata/HaynesPro also reference Astra J fault codes P0335/P0336 relating directly to the crankshaft sensor. So it’s very much a fitted and critical part on this vehicle.

On the 2014 Astra, the crank angle sensor’s job is to tell the engine control unit exactly where the crankshaft is and how fast it’s spinning. That timing signal lets the ECU fire the spark and inject the fuel at the right moment, sync with the cam sensor for precise valve timing, detect misfires, and manage start-up, idle and performance cleanly. If the CKP signal drops out, the engine can be hard to start, run rough or stall, and the check engine light will usually pop up.

It’s not a scheduled service item, so there’s no routine replacement interval. That said, heat and vibration eventually take a toll. A little preventive care goes a long way:

• Keep an eye out for symptoms: long crank/hard start, random stalling when hot, uneven idle, loss of power, or the MIL with codes like P0335/P0336.
• Inspect the wiring and connector for oil ingress, brittle insulation, or loose pins—Astra engines can run warm under the bonnet.
• If replacing the sensor, use quality OE or equivalent, lightly oil the O-ring, and route the harness away from the exhaust and moving parts.
• After installation, clear fault codes and carry out a crankshaft variation relearn with a proper scan tool where applicable.

On many 1.4T/1.6 Astra J engines, the sensor is mounted low on the block near the bellhousing area, so access is typically from underneath with the vehicle safely supported. The job is usually a single retaining bolt and a sealed probe, but it pays to follow the torque specs and steps in GM SI. Most workshops allow around 0.5–1.0 hour for testing and replacement. If in doubt, a quick diagnostic with live data will confirm whether the CKP signal is clean and stable across the rev range.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2014 Holden Astra?
On most Astra J/PJ engines it’s mounted low on the engine block near the gearbox bellhousing. Access is often easiest from underneath once the splash shield is off. The sensor has a small retaining bolt and a sealed O-ring, the harness runs up the back of the engine, so take care with routing on refit.

Because space is tight, a small ratchet and good lighting make the job much less fiddly. Always support the vehicle securely before working underneath.

What are common signs the Astra’s crank angle sensor is failing?
Typical clues include hard starting (especially when hot), intermittent stalling, rough idle, sudden loss of power, and a check engine light. Scan tools often show codes like P0335/P0336 and may reveal a drop-out in the RPM signal.

Before condemning the sensor, check the wiring for heat damage or oil contamination, as those can mimic the same symptoms.

Does the crank angle sensor need coding after replacement?
No coding in the traditional sense, but many Astra models benefit from a crankshaft position variation relearn using a capable scan tool. This teaches the ECU the new signal profile so it can manage timing and misfire detection accurately.

Skipping the relearn can leave minor drivability quirks or returning fault codes, so most workshops perform it as part of the job.