Does the crankshaft sensor cause a 1997 Chevy Malibu to choke before cranking?

A faulty crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor) can absolutely prevent a 1997 Chevy Malibu from starting, and symptoms can *include* choking or sputtering before cranking, but it's not the only cause. The CKP sensor tells the computer the position of the crankshaft, which is crucial for timing the fuel injection and ignition. If the signal is faulty or missing, the computer can't properly control the engine's functions, leading to a no-start condition. Choking or sputtering *might* occur if the sensor is intermittently failing, providing a weak or inconsistent signal.

However, many other things can cause a 1997 Chevy Malibu to choke before cranking, including:

* Fuel pump issues: A weak or failing fuel pump might not deliver enough fuel to the engine, causing sputtering or choking attempts.

* Fuel filter clog: A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow, leading to similar symptoms.

* Battery issues: A weak battery can cause slow cranking, which can manifest as choking or sputtering.

* Ignition system problems: Problems with the ignition coil, distributor (if applicable), or ignition wires can prevent proper ignition, leading to a sputtering start attempt.

* MAF sensor issues: A Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) problem can cause a lean fuel mixture, leading to similar issues.

* Other sensors: Several other sensors contribute to engine control; a faulty one can cause improper fuel/air mixture.

In short: While a faulty CKP sensor is *a possibility*, it's not the only, or even necessarily the most likely, culprit. A proper diagnosis requires checking multiple systems and likely using a scan tool to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the car's computer. Simply replacing the CKP sensor without a proper diagnosis might not solve the problem and could waste money.