Sensors, Senders and Switches

Making Sense Of Sensors

It really doesn't matter what kind of car you drive, from a subcompact to a lifted dually pickup sensors are one of the most crucial elements of a vehicle's electrical system. These electrical devices measure, feed and receive information with your engine's computer to keep your car running smoothly. Some of the most important sensors include:

• Mass Air Flow Sensor
• Camshaft Position Sensor
• Crankshaft Position Sensor
• Knock Sensor
• Oxygen Sensor

The mass air flow sensor, also known as MAF sensor, is a type of integrated circuit that computes the amount of air coming into your engine. A camshaft sensor, or camshaft position sensor, detects the camshaft speed and position, and then sends the information to the engine control module (ECM) so that it can control the amount of fuel that enters the ignition chamber. The crankshaft sensor works much the same way for the crankshaft.

Is your 2013 Honda Accord's engine "knocking?" Knock occurs when increased pressure and temperature within the engine results in a secondary ignition. The knock sensor can identify this and will inform your car's computer.

Your oxygen sensor, or O2 sensor, is a key component in the measurement of your vehicle's exhaust output. It detects how much unburned oxygen is present in your exhaust as it leaves the engine, and informs the computer whether your fuel mix is too rich (not enough oxygen) or too lean (too much oxygen). If your Check Engine light is illuminated, and throws a P0134 or a P0138 code, it could mean your O2 sensor is bad. Stop by your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store to check out our huge selection of sensors from top brands like NAPA, Bosch, Echlin, Denso and Delphi.

Off To A Good Start

When it comes to starting your car, turning the key in your 2009 Toyota 4Runner or pushing the start button on your Toyota Prius is just the beginning! There are several types of ignition systems out there, but most cars on the road feature an electronic ignition switch that is usually located on the steering column or in the dash area. Turning the key or pushing the button sends power from the battery to the ignition coil, and that produces the spark your engine needs to ignite the fuel air mix.

As you might imagine, if your ignition switch has gone bad, nothing will happen when you turn the key. Or, you may not be able to turn the key at all. If your dashboard lights are flashing, or dimming and brightening as you accelerate or decelerate, there could also be an issue with the ignition switch. Download the NAPA KNOW HOW App today, so you can get the parts, tools and Know How you need to start a DIY ignition switch.