Possible Causes
NOTE: The listed causes may not be a complete list of all potential problems and there may be other causes.
- Faulty camshaft position sensor
- Camshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
- Poor electrical connection in camshaft position sensor circuit
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
Description
The camshaft position sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the camshaft spins. This information is used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The camshaft position sensor senses the retraction of camshaft (intake) to identify a particular cylinder. The camshaft position sensor senses the piston position. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disk, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.
When the engine is rotating, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The change in the magnetic field causes the sensor voltage to change.
When the crankshaft position (POS) sensor system becomes inoperative, the camshaft position sensor provides various commands for engine components instead, using the timing of cylinder identification signals
How to Repair
Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the related wire harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
Possible Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
- Lack/loss of power
- Engine stalling