Parts for your 2018 Holden Colorado-Crank angle sensor

2018 Holden Colorado crank angle sensor — what it does and when to service it

Yes, the 2018 Holden Colorado is fitted with a crank angle sensor (also called a crankshaft position sensor, CKP). This isn’t optional kit on a modern common-rail diesel. Technical references that confirm its use include Holden/GM Service Information (RG Colorado MY18, Engine Controls), which details DTCs such as P0335–P0339 for the CKP circuit, ACDelco/GM Genuine parts catalogues that list a CKP sensor for the 2.8‑litre Duramax/Colorado diesel, and mainstream workshop data providers used across AU/NZ that show live CKP data for diagnosis and timing sync.

On the Colorado, the crank angle sensor feeds the ECU with the exact position and speed of the crank. The ECU uses that signal to control injection timing, fuel delivery and starting strategy. If the signal drops out, you’ll get hard starting, no start, limp mode, or stalling because the ECU can’t confidently time injection events.

• Typical fault signs: extended crank or no start when hot, random stalling, rough idle, misfire-like shudder, poor power, and the check engine light with codes like P0335/P0336.
• Common contributors: connector corrosion, harness chafe near the block or bellhousing, oil contamination at the sensor O‑ring, or internal sensor failure.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item, but it is smart to include quick checks during servicing. That means a visual on the sensor area for oil weep, ensuring the loom isn’t rubbing on the block or starter, and scanning for pending CKP-related codes after road testing. Keeping the connector clean and latched tight helps avoid intermittent dropouts on corrugated roads.

When replacement is needed, go for quality (OE or reputable aftermarket) and follow workshop procedure: battery disconnected, access the sensor mounted to the block facing the reluctor/flywheel (on the 2.8 diesel it’s at the rear of the engine by the bellhousing), remove the hold‑down bolt, lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat it straight, and torque to the specification in Holden SI. After fitting, carry out a Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn using an appropriate scan tool (GDS2/Tech2Win-capable). Skipping the relearn can leave a shaky idle or recurring codes.

Most Colorado owners will only ever replace this sensor once, if at all. If you’re chasing random stalling or hot no‑start, rule out basics (battery, grounds, fuel pressure) then check live data for CKP RPM and sync — it’s the quickest way to confirm the sensor’s doing its job.

Popular questions about 2018 Holden Colorado crank angle sensors

Does my 2018 Colorado actually have a crank angle sensor?
Yes. The RG-series 2018 Colorado runs a crankshaft position (crank angle) sensor as a primary engine timing input. It’s essential for injection timing and starting, and it’s monitored by the ECU with specific fault codes if anything goes off.

Where is the crank angle sensor located on the 2.8 diesel?
It’s mounted to the engine block facing the crank/flywheel, at the rear of the block near the transmission bellhousing. Access varies by tools and model, many techs go from underneath, sometimes moving the starter heat shield for room.

Do I need a relearn after replacing the sensor?
Yes. A crankshaft position variation learn with a compatible scan tool is recommended after sensor replacement. It lets the ECU calibrate to the new signal profile, helping avoid rough idle or repeat CKP codes.