The national cost for a https://caradvise.com/encyclopedia/camshaft/ in 2023 is between $62 and $369 with an average of $185​

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What is a camshaft position sensor and how does it work?

A camshaft position sensor is a device that uses a magnetic field to read or sense the position of a camshaft as it rotates. An engine can feature anywhere from one to four camshafts, each having its own camshaft position sensor.

In order for your engine to run properly, each of its internal components must move together in concert the way instruments play along with one another in an orchestra. Synchronized by the timing belt, the crankshaft, pistons, valves, and camshaft(s) all need to play together at the same time and in relationship to the fuel injection and ignition systems. One of the ways it does so is through the use of two types of sensors, one for the crankshaft and the other for the camshaft.

Mounted at the top of your engine near the camshaft, the camshaft position sensor sends information about the position of the camshaft to the engine’s main computer, the Engine Control Module (ECM). There it is used to determine the relationship of the camshaft(s) to the crankshaft. If they are not timed correctly, the ECM makes adjustments to the fuel injection and ignition systems to make sure your engine runs at maximum efficiency and power, and to avoid internal damage and premature wear.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

How do I know if my vehicle needs a camshaft position sensor replaced?

When the ECM detects that your engine is operating “out of time” for some reason - in this case because a camshaft is not in time with the crankshaft - it will turn on the check engine light to let you know there is a problem. A diagnostic scan of the associated trouble code should reveal a problem with the camshaft position sensor. Other associated signs of a bad camshaft position sensor might include:

Reduced horsepower and a decrease in engine efficiency

Engine stalls unexpectedly or fails to start

Hesitation upon acceleration

An uneven idle or misfire

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HOW IS THIS SERVICE PERFORMED?

How is a a https://caradvise.com/encyclopedia/camshaft/ done?

To replace a camshaft position sensor, a technician will first disconnect the negative terminal from the battery, taking care to preserve the sensitive memory in the vehicle’s computers. From there, a typical replacement procedure will include the following:

  • Remove any engine covers, air intake ducts, and other components necessary for access to the camshaft position sensor at the top of your engine
  • Detach the wiring harness plug from the sensor
  • Remove the mounting fasteners and dislodge the sensor
  • Install a new sensor and torque the fasteners to manufacturer’s specifications
  • Plug in the wiring harness and reinstall all components that were removed for access
  • Clear the error code from the ECM

Other questions customers ask

What happens when your camshaft position sensor goes out?
When your camshaft position sensor goes out, the vehicle's ECM (Engine Control Module) no longer receives accurate data about the position of that camshaft with respect to the crankshaft. Without this data, the ECM cannot properly control things such as valve timing, air/fuel ratios, and EGR valve position. This can lead to lack of power, hesitation, stutter, as well as reduced fuel economy and failed emissions testing.
Can I drive with a camshaft position sensor problem?
Some vehicles will not allow the engine to run with a faulty camshaft position sensor. Other vehicles will allow the engine to run, however the engine will function properly - and it could ultimately incur long term damage if used continually with a bad camshaft position sensor.
How many camshaft position sensors are in a car?
The number of camshaft position sensors in a vehicle depends on the number of camshafts in the engine. Some engines have a single camshaft, others have multiple camshafts. For the most part, modern engines have anywhere from two to four camshafts, and therefore two to four camshaft position sensors.

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