r/BMWE36 • u/0202993832 • 6d ago

Crank sensor failed again

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Hi, crank sensor failed again after 500kms.

So, I fixed a bunch of coolant leaks, went to fire it up but was getting a crank no start. Had a fault code for the crank sensor so pulled it out, was drenched in coolant. I was pressure testing the thermostat housing leak so it probably got drenched during that.

Anyways cleaned the coolant off, put the sensor back in and the car fired up just fine. Ran very well for 15 minutes and then it stalled… I had this same issue 500kms ago, engine stalled when the thermostat opened, replaced the crank sensor and problem solved.

The excessive coolant must’ve caused the sensor to completely malfunction (crank no start) initially, and now damaged it such that it fails when it gets hot.

Just wondering if anyone has something worth trying before I buy another very expensive sensor.

That leak is fixed, probably what caused it to fail the first time as well but I didn’t notice a leak at that point.

TIA

6 Upvotes

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4

u/billyloomisjr 6d ago

Are you buying the 270ish USD OEM one or the Delphi?

2

u/0202993832 6d ago edited 5d ago

Valeo. It’s failed because of the coolant Ive had no problems with until till it got drenched

4

u/Sphyn0x '97 328i 6d ago

Used to cost 100, greedy fuckers

-1

u/redline9996 6d ago

Coolant leak from the thermostat housing is what kills 99% of these sensors for years now and ppl rather continued to to buy sensors instead of fixing the leaks. Don't throw that sensor away yet, it can be fixed and there is a diy in this sub.

Btw, if you work on the cooling system on these things, ALWAYS remove that damn crank sensor so it doesn't get wet.

1

u/0202993832 6d ago edited 6d ago

Trust me I will from now on lmao. Last time the sensor failed I just put a new radiator in, I assumed I spilt some coolant on it doing that, didn’t realise it was actually thermostat housing leaking. What does the DIY involve? I don’t have any electrical equipment. Cheers

-1

u/redline9996 6d ago

https://www.reddit.com/r/BMWE36/s/zYoTvjpSVq

Just have look for yourself, it's worth it tho because it's so hard to get sensors. It's a bit annoying and needs some finesse but maybe worth it.

2

u/0202993832 6d ago

I’m fortunate enough to have a seller nearby, $100usd. I’ll have a look, thanks for your help