Crankshaft Position Sensor (TDC), BMW - E21 323i, E30 325e, E28 528e, M20

This part is listed by BMW as BMW part number 12521279695 (12 52 1 279 695) and is described as a OE Position Transmitter (crank or TDC sensor) for E21 323i (1981, 1982, 1983), E30 325e, 325es, (1984, 1985, 1986, 1987), and E28 528e (1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987). This sensor works on the front timing cover to read crankshaft position by identifying the TDC mark on the crank pulley. The other end of the sensor terminated in a small diagnostic plug mounted to the intake manifold. This sensor was used only for engine diagnostics and not for engine starting or timing.

Note: this sensor is supplied from BMW with pigtail ends that must be soldered (spliced or connected) into your existing wiring harness. This is not a plug-and-play replacement sensor. BMW only sells it this one way.

Buyer Beware: the Bosch version of this sensor is not correct for the models listed below. Bosch part numbers 0261210028 and 0986280799 are a similar front crank sensor but are for the later Bosch Motronic engine harness. The only replacement TDC sensor that we know of is this Genuine BMW part.

Supersedes BMW Part Number 12521276212 (12-52-1-276-212) and 12111364299 (, 12-11-1-364-299).

This is a Genuine BMW TDC sensor with a two year warranty. Buying a Genuine part will usually be more expensive than an OEM or aftermarket brand but you are assured that it meets BMW's designs for fitment, performance, and longevity. It will also be the very latest design, incorporating any updates or revisions that an aftermarket brand typically will ignore.

For full BMW fitment information or for assistance from one of our BMW experts, we recommend calling us at 877-639-9648.