Recently, the 96 STS, 68k miles, no oil or water leaks, etc., has been shutting off at idle. Research indicates potentialcrankshaft sensor failure. Would you recommend further checking, or just replacing both, (is there a lower and upper)? Are these easy to get to and replace? If so where are they located and what tools would I need to replace?

Thank you,

tkell

 

When it shuts off at idle, do the power windows and locks still work (do not turn the key off and back on, just leave it on)? If not, your problem probably is not the crank sensor, it is probably a ground or ignition switch. If they still work OK then look into the crank sensor problem. I have never taken one off a FWD car but it is probably a pain.
Keith
1995 SLS

 

Replace them if one of them is tan in color instead of grey. The grey was the update. And yes, replace both. Do it simply based on age and potential failure. I rarely, if ever, recommend replacement without diagnosis, but because these sensors rarely provide fault codes, do it regardless. Being that these are close to the lower pulley tire must be removed to gain access. Do you consider yourself to be an above average mechanic?