Modern heavy-duty trucks rely on a network of sensors to operate efficiently, control emissions, and protect essential systems. These sensors monitor everything from exhaust temperatures to fuel pressure, playing a crucial role in keeping trucks on the road and maintaining fleet productivity. This guide highlights the most common heavy-duty truck sensors and explains their functions, helping you better understand the components that impact your truck's performance.
Temperature Sensors
Temperature sensors are primarily used to monitor the temperature of various truck components, including exhaust gas, engine coolant, and oil. These sensors must withstand varying temperature ranges to prevent overheating, reduce emissions, protect vital components such as the turbocharger and particulate filter, and maintain the oil's viscosity.
Indicators of a malfunction include inaccurate temperature readings, overheating, or a check engine light, which may suggest a faulty temperature sensor.
NOx Sensors
The NOx sensor monitors nitrogen emissions from your truck, ensuring compliance with emissions regulations. Suppose the sensor detects excessive emissions of nitrogen oxides. In that case, it communicates this information to the truck's Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalyst system, which then adjusts the output to meet the required emission standards.
Signs of failure may include reduced fuel efficiency, diminished power, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the emissions system.
Pressure Sensors
Pressure sensors monitor fluid and gas pressures in various truck systems, including fuel, oil, and air systems. They are also crucial for managing exhaust emissions. These sensors help track pressure in the truck's diesel particulate filter (DPF) to prevent clogging. A common example is the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which alerts drivers when tire pressure is low, thereby enhancing safety, improving fuel efficiency, and prolonging tire life.
Signs of failure include erratic readings, decreased performance, or warning lights indicating a failing pressure sensor.
Level Sensors
Level sensors measure fluid levels in reservoirs such as fuel tanks, coolant systems, or DEF tanks. Maintaining proper fluid levels is essential for optimal operation and for preventing costly breakdowns. For example, DEF level sensors notify drivers when fluid levels are low, helping to avoid engine derate or shutdown due to insufficient emissions control. Similarly, oil and coolant level sensors protect engines from damage caused by leaks or overheating.
Indicators of failure include frequent false low-level warnings or inaccurate fluid readings.
Speed & Position Sensors
Speed and position sensors work together to provide the engine control unit (ECU) with real-time data on the movement of parts. Common examples include crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, which help synchronize engine timing for efficient combustion, and wheel speed sensors, which are critical for systems such as anti-lock braking (ABS) and traction control. Accurate readings from these sensors ensure smooth acceleration, improved fuel efficiency, and stable braking.
Signs of failure may include rough idling, shifting problems, or inaccurate speedometer readings.
Keeping Your Sensors in Top Condition with Iron Wing Parts
When sensors malfunction, they can trigger dashboard warnings, decrease performance, or even cause the truck to enter limp mode. Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality replacement parts are essential for ensuring your truck's sensors provide accurate data and reliable performance.
At Iron Wing Parts, we offer a wide selection of heavy-duty truck sensors, including temperature, NOx, and pressure sensors from reputable brands such as Cummins, Mack, and Bendix, as well as our latest premium aftermarket PEX and PAI sensors. All parts are in stock and ready to ship, with new items added daily. You can easily search by part number, manufacturer, or description to find the parts you need, when you need them.