Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Crank angle sensor

2017 Mitsubishi Lancer crank-angle sensor: what it does and when to replace it

Technical confirmation: The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer (petrol 2.0L 4B11 and 2.4L 4B12) is fitted with a crankshaft position sensor—commonly called a crank-angle sensor. This is documented in Mitsubishi’s Lancer Service Manual (Engine/Engine Electrical sections covering CKP sensing and DTCs P0335/P0336), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue (listing the CKP sensor for 4B1 engines), and independent repair manuals for 2007–2017 Lancer models. So, yes—this vehicle uses a crank-angle sensor and it’s relevant to servicing and fault diagnosis.

On the 2017 Lancer, the crank-angle sensor keeps the ECU in the loop about exactly where the crankshaft is and how fast it’s spinning. That live data lets the ECU fire the spark and squirt the fuel at just the right moment, coordinate MIVEC cam timing, and keep the idle tidy. If it drops out, the car can be hard to start, run rough, or stall, and the check engine light will likely flag codes such as P0335 or P0336.

The sensor is a sealed Hall-effect or magnetic pickup mounted to the engine block, reading a toothed target on the crank. There’s no scheduled replacement in the maintenance book, it’s a fit‑and‑forget item. That said, it pays to give it and its wiring a quick once‑over during regular services—especially if there are oil leaks or previous under‑bonnet work. A light film of oil or metal fuzz on the tip can upset readings, and a chafed harness can cause intermittent cut‑outs that’ll drive anyone spare.

• Typical symptoms of trouble: long crank/no start, random stalling, misfires at cruise, poor fuel economy, tacho dropping to zero, and engine light on with CKP codes.

If replacement’s on the cards, it’s a straightforward job for a competent tech:

1. Disconnect the battery and unplug the sensor connector.
2. Clean around the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor.
3. Match the new sensor to the old one, renew the O‑ring, and lightly oil the seal.
4. Seat the sensor fully, refit the bolt to the factory torque, and route the loom correctly.
5. Clear codes, start the engine, and road‑test. Most Lancers will relearn automatically, if idle is unsettled, perform an idle learn with a scan tool as per the workshop manual.

Go for a genuine or quality aftermarket sensor listed for the 4B11/4B12. The air gap isn’t adjustable on this setup, so correct seating and clean mounting faces are key. As part of ongoing servicing, keep an eye out for oil leaks near the sensor and repair them to protect the connector and wiring.

FAQs

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer?
It’s mounted low on the engine block, positioned to read a toothed wheel on the crankshaft. Access is from the engine bay, visibility varies a bit with engine and trim. A torch and a small mirror can help spot the retaining bolt and connector.

What are the signs the Lancer’s crank-angle sensor is failing?
Common giveaways are hard starting or a complete no‑start, intermittent stalling once warm, the tacho dropping out, and the check engine light with codes like P0335/P0336. Because wiring faults can mimic a bad sensor, always inspect the harness and connector before condemning the part.

Does a new crank-angle sensor need programming?
Usually, no. The ECU will pick up the signal straight away. After replacement, clear any stored codes and let the engine idle until warm. If the idle hunts, perform an idle learn with a scan tool following the service manual procedure.