Parts for your 2018 Honda Accord-Crank angle sensor

2018 Honda Accord crank-angle sensor: purpose, care and replacement

According to Honda’s 2018 Accord workshop information (PGM‑FI/Powertrain Control: Crankshaft Position Sensor) and OEM parts catalogues, the 2018 Accord is fitted with a crankshaft position (crank‑angle) sensor on all engines, including the 1.5‑litre and 2.0‑litre turbo variants and the hybrid. Modern OBD‑II engine management relies on this sensor for spark and fuel timing as well as misfire monitoring, so it’s very much part of the car.

What does it do? The crank‑angle sensor tracks crankshaft position and engine speed in real time. The ECU uses that signal to fire the coils and injectors at precisely the right moments, coordinate with the cam sensor for variable valve timing, and manage starting, idle, and knock corrections. If the signal drops out, the ute won’t start, may stall, or will throw fault codes.

There’s no scheduled maintenance for the sensor itself—it’s a sealed, solid‑state unit—but a few easy habits help. Keep an eye out for oil weeps around the sensor boss, make sure the connector is clean and latched, and avoid tugging the loom when working under the bonnet. Low battery voltage and poor earths can mimic sensor faults, so it’s smart to check those first.

Typical symptoms of a crook crank‑angle sensor include: long crank/no start, random stalling, rough running, tachometer dropouts, and DTCs such as P0335–P0339. Before grabbing a spanner, confirm live data and waveforms with a scan tool if possible.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home mechanic. General steps: disconnect the negative battery terminal, safely raise the vehicle, locate the sensor at the engine block where it reads the crank trigger wheel (commonly low on the block or near the bellhousing), unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, withdraw the sensor. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install the sensor squarely, and torque the bolt to the small spec (about 8–12 N·m). Reconnect, clear codes, perform an idle relearn, and road‑test. Use genuine or quality aftermarket parts that meet OEM spec—cheap copies can give weak signals and intermittent grief.

If the Accord is still under warranty or the job feels fiddly, a trusted local mechanic in Australia or New Zealand can handle testing and replacement quickly, usually within an hour or two. That keeps the car starting first go and running sweet across all kilometres ahead.

• Common fault codes: P0335, P0336, P0337, P0338, P0339
• Watch for: oil contamination at the connector, chafed wiring, poor battery/earths

Popular questions

Does a 2018 Honda Accord have a crank‑angle sensor?
Yes. Honda’s service literature for the 2018 Accord lists a crankshaft position (crank‑angle) sensor as part of the PGM‑FI system on all engine options. It’s essential for ignition timing, fuel delivery, and OBD‑II misfire detection.

Where is the crank‑angle sensor on a 2018 Accord?
It’s mounted to the engine block where it can read the crankshaft’s trigger wheel—typically low on the block or near the transmission bellhousing. Access is usually from underneath after removing the undertray. The exact spot varies slightly between the 1.5T, 2.0T and hybrid layouts.

Is it safe to drive with a failing crank‑angle sensor?
Not really. A failing sensor can cause sudden stalling or a no‑start. If the engine is misfiring or cutting out, it’s safer to park up and arrange a tow to avoid getting stranded or damaging the catalytic converter.