Parts for your 2023 Ford Escape-Crank angle sensor

2023 Ford Escape crank-angle sensor (CKP): purpose and service tips

Technical documentation confirms the 2023 Ford Escape is fitted with a crank-angle sensor, referred to by Ford as the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor. Evidence appears in the Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for the 2023 Escape/Kuga across the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost and 2.5L Hybrid/PHEV engines under “Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor — Removal and Installation,” in Ford wiring diagrams showing the CKP circuit to the PCM, and in Ford’s OBD-II DTC lists for this model, which include P0335–P0339 and P0315 relating to CKP signal and correlation. So, yes—this part is relevant and used on the 2023 Escape.

What does it do? The CKP sensor tracks the crankshaft’s exact angle and speed. The PCM uses that signal to fire the injectors and spark at the right moment, line up cam timing, manage start/stop and hybrid engine restarts, detect misfires, and keep the whole engine running smoothly. On the hybrid models, it’s also essential for clean handovers between electric drive and the petrol engine.

When a CKP sensor is crook, drivers may see a no-start or long crank, stalling, rough idle, misfire codes, limp-home behaviour, a dead tach, or those P0335-series faults. Hybrids can struggle to start the engine during transitions.

Is it serviceable? It’s a sealed solid-state sensor and is generally maintenance-free—there’s no scheduled replacement. During regular servicing, it’s smart to check the harness and connector routing near the crank area, look for oil leaks or contamination that could foul the tip, and make sure nothing’s rubbing on the loom. Avoid pressure-washing connectors and fix any front cover or crank seal leaks promptly.

Replacement is straightforward with basic hand tools, but access can be tight via the right-hand wheel arch liner. The sensor mounts to the block or front cover, reading a toothed reluctor on the crank. Expect a single retaining bolt and an O-ring. Fit a quality replacement, lightly oil the new O-ring, seat it cleanly, and torque to the Ford WSM spec. After replacement, clear codes and perform a crank profile/CKP relearn with a scan tool if required, some vehicles will complete a relearn after a short drive cycle.

• Use genuine or OE-equivalent parts to avoid signal noise issues.
• Never pry against the reluctor wheel, damage can cause recurring faults.
• After engine or transmission work, double-check CKP wiring isn’t pinched.

Popular questions

Does the 2023 Ford Escape have a crank-angle sensor?
Yes. Ford calls it the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor. It’s documented in the 2023 Escape/Kuga Ford Workshop Manual, shown in the factory wiring diagrams, and supported by Ford’s diagnostic trouble codes such as P0335–P0339 and P0315 for CKP signal and relearn.

Where is the CKP sensor on a 2023 Escape?
It’s mounted to the engine block or front cover so it can read a toothed wheel on the crankshaft. Access is typically from the right-hand wheel arch area. Exact position varies slightly between the 1.5L, 2.0L EcoBoost and 2.5L hybrid engines, but it’s always aligned with the crank reluctor.

Is there a maintenance interval for the CKP?
No routine interval. It’s a fit-and-forget part. During regular servicing, a quick visual of the connector and loom, and checking for oil leaks or debris around the sensor area, is all that’s usually needed. Replace only if there are symptoms or CKP-related fault codes.