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 CAMSHAFT SENSOR REPLACEMENT

 
 
 

HOW TO REPLACE A CAMSHAFT

SENSOR
Learn how to replace your car's engine camshaft sensor. We are a team of ASE
certified mechanics that have created this service guide to help you save money.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Your engine's camshaft position sensor is designed to count the rotations of the
camshaft inside the engine as it is running. Using a metal timer somewhere on the
camshaft this sensor uses a magnetic field which is built up and then broken down
which counts as one revolution. This information is then sent to the cars computer
and is then figured into the equation of the operating program. This sensor can
have the abbreviation of CMP or CMS.
WHERE IS IT LOCATED?
The cam sensor is located in the valve cover near the top of the engine or they can
be located at the front or rear of the cylinder head as in the picture below.
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SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CAMSHAFT SENSOR

When a cam sensor goes bad it will cause the check engine light to come on  and
produce a trouble code. It can also cause the engine to run rough  while the car is at
cruising speed or at idle. Due to the lack of feedback information to the computer
this sensor problem can cause an engine stumble or hesitation . Though some think
the engine will not start if this sensor goes out but this is simply not true because
the computer will always use the crankshaft angle sensor to allow the engine to
run.
WHAT GOES WRONG?
Inside the cam sensor there are small gauge copper wires that are subject to the
heat and vibration of the engine. Over time these windings can break or short
circuit which hinders the ability of the sensor to read the magnetic rotation of the
camshaft.
IS IT SAFE TO DRIVE?
When the camshaft angle sensor goes bad one portion of the information needed to
operate the engine is lost. Fortunately the computer will have enough information
from the remaining sensors to keep the engine running. The computer will then
substitute an alternative value for the missing data. This action causes the engine to
loose a small amount of power  and fuel economy.
SERVICE COSTS
Camshaft sensor service costs will vary per manufacturer and depend on the
location of the sensor. If you are having the job done at a repair shop or at the
dealer it will cost between $180.00 and $250.00 (US). Whereas if you where doing
the job yourself the sensor alone will cost between $25.00 and $65.00 (US).
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HOW LONG DO CAM SENSORS LAST?
These sensors should last the life of the car and do in most cases, but as with all
electronics they can fail at anytime.
WATCH THE VIDEO!
Then follow down the guide to pick up addition tips and information that is
updated regularly.
LET'S GET STARTED!
Begin with the vehicle on level ground in park with the engine off and the
emergency brake set. Though engine appearances will vary the process is similar
for most vehicles. You can get the replacement part and tools from Amazon or the
local parts store or car dealer.
Tools and Supplies Needed
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 Replacement cam angle sensor
 Tool set
 Protective eye wear and gloves
Step 1
Remove Camshaft Sensor: Locate the sensor by inspecting the front, rear and top
portion of the engine. These sensors are in pain sight and will have a two or three
wire connector attached to them.
Use a small flat blade (standard) screwdriver or pick to release the electrical
connector tab to remove connector from the sensor. Gently pull the connector out
from the sensor. It can be a little stuck due to the weather pack seal inside the
connector which is designed to keep out moister.

Using a 8mm or 10mm (in most cases) socket or wrench remove the camshaft
sensor mounting bolt by turning it counterclockwise. There is usually only one
bolt.

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Sometime these bolts can be over tightened at the factory which causes the bolt
threads to stretch and become weak. Inspect the threads for damage and replace the
bolt if needed.

Grasp the sensor and with a twisting motion pull the sensor from the housing. This
too can be a little stuck because of the O ring seal which is designed to control
engine oil.

Once the sensor is free from its housing or mount inspect the electrical terminals
for damage and corrosion which will hinder the sensor's performance.

Step 2
Install New Camshaft Sensor: After the old sensor has been removed wipe it
clean so you and compare the new sensor to ensure a proper installation. Be sure
the sensor has a new O ring seal to avoid oil leaks once the new sensor has been
installed. Occasionally there will be subtle a manufacturer update to the sensor
which will change it's appearance slightly.

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Use a shop towel to clean the area which will help avoid leaks. Then apply a small
amount of engine oil or WD40 to the O ring seal and gently lower the sensor into
position. The oil is to help lubricate the seal which will help avoid the seal from
getting damaged during the installation.

Insert and start the mounting bolt by hand to avoid cross threading. Avoid starting
the bolt while using a socket.

Use a small socket or wrench and tighten the sensor mounting bolt. This bolt does
not need to be super tight because is only holds the sensor in place. The
specification would be about 2 pounds of torque.

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Inspect the wiring connector to make sure it is free from grease, dirt and corrosion.
Clean if necessary before installing it onto the new sensor. Inspect the wiring of
the connector because this is usually where breaks can occur.

Firmly install the electrical connector by pushing it inward toward the connector.
You should hear an audible click when it is completely installed.

Once the new sensor has been installed double check the mounting bolt and
connection to ensure a proper installation. Once the repair is complete connect
your code reader to clear codes and start the engine. The code scanner will produce
a "PASS" message to indicate your job's success.

GOT ANY QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions about camshaft sensors please visit our forum. If you
need car repair advice , please ask our community of mechanics who are happy to
help. Our service is always 100% free.
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We hope you enjoyed this guide and videos. We are creating a full set of car repair
guides . Please subscribe to our 2CarPros YouTube  channel and check back often
for new videos which are uploaded almost everyday.
Article published 2018-06-06

ASK A CAR QUESTION. IT'S FREE!

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