The camshaft position sensor is the most crucial electrical part of any engine and is critical to the distributor’s and ignition timing’s performance.
The crankshaft position sensor is a multifunctional sensor that detects engine RPM and relative engine speed as well as sets ignition timing. Manual distributor timing is no longer required, thanks to this sensor.
The camshaft position sensor is utilised to synchronise the fuel injector and coil firing sequence by determining which cylinder is firing.
What is Camshaft Position Sensor?
A camshaft position sensor is standard equipment in today’s cars. Any car needs this sensor since it helps to verify that the engine is operating properly.
When you peek beneath your car’s hood, you can have a hard time finding the sensor. For attaching the sensor, various automakers often choose a certain location close to the engine. Either in the lifter valley of the car, behind the cylinder head, or just close to the engine block are possible locations.
A camshaft position sensor is used to measure the camshaft’s position in relation to the crankshaft. The powertrain control module (PCM) will use this information to operate the ignition system and/or fuel injectors.
Symptoms Of A Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
1. Check the Engine Light of your Vehicle
The most common indicator of a bad camshaft position sensor is an illuminated check engine light.
It will most likely be unclear what is wrong when the light comes on. Use an OBD2 scanner to look for any fault codes in your car in order to get a better picture.
You should take your automobile to a repair if you don’t have an OBD2 scanner. If at all possible, avoid using your vehicle while the light is on as further damage could result.
Depending on whether a qualified mechanic or someone equally competent has given you the go-ahead, you might be able to drive the car to the shop if you know what’s causing the check engine light.
The so-called “limp mode” may activate frequently. This safety function limits your car’s power and speed to safeguard all of its equipment.
2. Poor Fuel Efficiency
An inappropriate amount of fuel may be delivered into the combustion chamber as the camshaft sensor gives the engine control unit erroneous information.
In addition to injecting more gasoline, the combustion will also happen at a less-than-ideal period, resulting in more unburned fuel and worse gas mileage.
Due to its duration, this symptom may be more difficult to identify. You should also be mindful of how often your vehicle uses fuel.
3. Ignition Problems
The delivered signal to the vehicle’s computer decreases as a camshaft position sensor develops issues.
This indicates that, ultimately, the signal will become so faint that it will prevent the vehicle from starting because there won’t be an ignition spark.
4. Stalled Engine
When the fuel injectors aren’t being instructed to inject fuel into the engine cylinders, the engine may actually shut off or stall while you’re driving, which is an even worse situation than being unable to start your automobile.
Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost
Between $95 and $200 should be budgeted for the camshaft position sensor replacement. A single part will cost between $25 and $100. The cost of labour for professional replacement will be between $70 and $100.
And if your car is a luxury model or the replacement is being handled by your neighbourhood auto shop. On top of these costs, there will additionally be additional charges and taxes.
