Top Dead Center (TDC) Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
If you're concerned about potentially overpaying for your top dead center (TDC) sensor replacement, consider using MyMechanic to receive a fair cost estimate for this service.
✔ No spam ✔ Compare shops near you
✔ Always know how much you should pay
How much does it cost to replace a top dead center sensor?
On average, an top dead center sensor typically totals, which includes both parts and mechanic labor costs. However, the actual price can vary depending on your vehicle.
How long does it take to replace a top dead center sensor?
On average, a certified mechanic usually takes about 0.8 to complete the job of replacing a top dead center sensor This includes a preliminary inspection to assess the need for replacement and then proceeding with the full replacement process.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do I need for my top dead center sensor replacement and how much do those parts cost?
You may refer to your owner’s manual or consult your mechanic for accurate parts details, but here are the essential items you'll require:
- Top dead center sensor: The critical component that requires replacement is the top dead center sensor (TDC sensor). It monitors the top dead center reference point of a cylinder within the engine.
While both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket top dead center (TDC) sensors have advantages and disadvantages, OEM TDC sensors generally offer greater durability and reliability compared to aftermarket options
You can purchase a replacement aftermarket dead center sensor? from MyMechanic or contact them for further assistance.
Where can I get my top dead center sensor replaced?
Handling auto repairs without a reliable mechanic can be quite daunting. However, you can rely on MyMechanic's to ease your frustrations by providing cost comparisons across 2,500 repair shops throughout the Malaysia.
MyMechanic compares fair price estimates* from each shop based on their actual hourly labor rates. This means you won't need to engage in fruitless searches. With MyMechanic, you gain access to crucial information such as cost estimates (with or without service costs) and authentic reviews, all aimed at helping you make informed decisions and choose the best service for your needs.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace my top dead center sensor?
When replacing your top dead center (TDC) sensor, your mechanic will:
- Disconnect the car battery.
- Identify the TDC sensor's location on the cylinder, typically on cylinder number one in engines like a V8.
- Disconnect and remove the faulty TDC sensor.
- Install a new TDC sensor.
- Reconnect the car battery.
- Scan the engine and clear any error codes.
What happens if I don’t replace a bad top dead center sensor?
If the top dead center (TDC) sensor is damaged, it disrupts vital information sent to the onboard computer. For safety reasons, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) will disable the ignition system, preventing the engine from starting
Depending on the vehicle, this can result in either the engine not cranking at all or cranking but failing to produce a spark. Ignoring this issue may lead to further engine performance problems, reduced fuel efficiency, starting difficulties, and potential stalling.
What is a top dead center sensor?
The top dead center (TDC) is a critical reference point for your car's engine timing. It indicates the optimal moment for a spark plug to ignite the fuel present in the combustion chamber of a cylinder.
When the piston reaches top dead center, it reaches the peak of its compression stroke, and both the exhaust and intake valves within the cylinder head remain closed. This allows the cylinder to compress the air-fuel mixture effectively.
The TDC sensor continuously monitors this top dead center position and transmits a signal to your car's engine control module (ECM). The ECM then instructs the cylinder to ignite the fuel precisely when it reaches top dead center, ensuring efficient combustion and engine performance.
What are the symptoms of a bad top dead center sensor?
Some potential indicators that your speed sensor may require attention include:
- The check engine light illuminates.
- Engine misfires occur or the engine stops firing.
- The engine runs roughly or fails to operate altogether.
How often do you need to replace a top dead center sensor?
In optimal circumstances, the top dead center (TDC) sensor should endure for the entire lifespan of your car. However, being an electrical component, it is vulnerable to failure. Factors such as wear and tear, cracking, and corrosion can contribute to the degradation and malfunction of the TDC sensor.
Is replacing a top dead center sensor yourself easy?
While replacing a top dead center (TDC) sensor isn’t the most challenging automotive task, if you choose to undertake this endeavor on your own, you should have confidence in your do-it-yourself (DIY) auto repair abilities. For most drivers, we advise consulting a certified mechanic to diagnose and address the issue.
FAQs
The service typically requires approximately 1-15 minutes to finish.
The top dead center (TDC) sensor is commonly known as the crankshaft position sensor.
The top dead center (TDC) sensor is crucial for engine operation, making prompt replacement necessary if it malfunctions.
