Faulty camshaft sensor? – Do you have to replace both camshaft sensors?
The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the camshaft position sensor (CMP) to determine the position of the camshaft in reference to the crankshaft. In some circumstances, the PCM uses this information to control fuel injectors and the ignition system.
The Hall effect and magnetic reluctance are the two most common types of camshaft sensors. Three wires are connected to the Hall effect design: reference, signal, and ground. The PCM delivers a reference DC voltage to the camshaft sensor, which then returns a signal based on the camshaft position to the PCM.
Should we replace both sensors if one of the two is damaged? Will replacing a sensor have an impact on engine performance? We will answer your questions below. Keep an eye out for a solution for your car.
Function Of Camshaft Position Sensor
In the engine’s control system, the camshaft position sensor is extremely significant. The sensor’s signal will be used by the ECU to identify the top dead center of engine 1 or other engines, as well as the precise location and timing of ignition or fuel injection.
The camshaft also monitors the performance of the variable camshaft control system in today’s new engines, which are all equipped with a sophisticated sensor-driven shaft control system. The ECU will use the signals from these variables to see if the variable camshaft is responding to the signal from the control ECU box properly.
Do You Have To Replace Both Camshaft Sensors?
When it comes to replacing all cam position sensors in one go, the decision is entirely up to you, since it is influenced by a number of factors such as cost, the convenience of installation, and how vulnerable the sensor on your vehicle is to drift over time. The health of the CPS on some vehicles must decline sufficiently before the vehicle issues a diagnostic code.
Both camshafts should be replaced at the same time, according to experts. The camshaft and crankshaft are both replaced in the same way.
However, finding the location of the crankshaft may be challenging. Another aspect to consider is that you should diagnose before you replace. You’ll notice the camshaft code 1200 while checking, which could indicate a mechanical issue.
What Is The Best Way To Check A Cam Sensor?
There are a few things you may perform to determine whether or not your cam sensor is defective. Visual inspection is one of the simplest techniques to examine the sensor. The camshaft position sensor is situated in the front of the car, on top of the engine. It’s a little cylindrical device with two wire leads protruding from the top. The sensor must be replaced if it is visibly damaged or rusted.
Read more: Does A Camshaft Increase Horsepower? (Explained)
What Are the Signs of a Failing or Bad Camshaft Position Sensor?
Let’s look at the indicators that both camshaft sensors are failing before deciding whether to replace them.
1. Check Engine Light Comes On
When your camshaft position sensor fails or starts to malfunction, the first thing you should notice is that your dashboard’s “Check Engine” light illuminates. Obviously, the “Check Engine” light could signify a lot of issues, including a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor.
In this situation, either use an OBD2 scan tool to get the stored diagnostic issue code(s) in your automobile or have a professional mechanic analyze the vehicle’s engine control module to discover what’s wrong. They, too, will scan this module for a series of error codes that will reveal the true nature of the problem.
When your Check Engine light comes on, do not ignore or postpone scanning or having your car tested; otherwise, your engine may suffer catastrophic damage. It’s possible that the engine will completely fail, forcing you to rebuild or replace it.
2. Drivability Issues
When a camshaft position sensor fails, it loses its capacity to relay data fast. Even a few milliseconds of mismatched fuel delivery and ignition timing will cause your car to splutter, accelerate slowly, lack power, stall, or even shut down.
3. Problems with Transmission Shifting
Certain models of cars with a faulty camshaft position sensor will develop a locked transmission, which will remain in a single gear. The only way out of that gear is to turn off your engine, wait a few moments, and then restart.
This is simply a temporary repair; the problem will resurface, necessitating the replacement of the sensor as a long-term solution.
Additionally, your vehicle may enter “limp mode,” which prevents you from shifting gears or exceeding a particular speed.
4. Jerking or Surging in a Car
If the camshaft position sensor fails while you’re driving, the engine will occasionally lose power, causing your car to shake or surge forward at random.
These are both caused by the PCM receiving inaccurate information from the camshaft position sensor, resulting in an incorrect quantity of fuel being pumped into the cylinders.
Is it Possible to Replace a Camshaft Position Sensor on Your Own?
This is one of those chores that practically anyone can do, and it’s a simple method to avoid paying a repair shop or dealership the minimum labor price. Replacing it should take about 5-10 minutes.
Camshaft Sensor Repair Experiences
The Check Engine light will illuminate to alert the driver if the camshaft sensor malfunctions. The owner of the vehicle should take it to a garage to have it evaluated with diagnostic and measurement equipment. When a sensor signal is lost, the engine will take longer to start and its power will be diminished.
On some models, a damaged camshaft position sensor will cause the spark plugs to not be able to ignite, leading to the vehicle being unable to start the engine.
When the car loses the camshaft sensor signal, there will be no signal to operate the injector before starting the engine on some Common Rail electronic fuel injection models, and the vehicle will not be able to start the engine.
Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement
The negative battery cable must be disconnected. The sensor should be located. It’s commonly found on the engine’s top, front, or rear. A 2-3 wire connector will most likely be linked to it.
To detach the wires from the sensor, release the sensor’s tab. Remove the sensor’s mounting bolt. An 8mm or 10mm bolt is commonly used. With a small twist, take the sensor off.
Apply a small amount of engine oil to the new sensor’s o-ring. Use the mounting bolt to secure the new camshaft position sensor. Reattach the sensor’s wire connector. The negative battery terminal should be connected again.
Our previous article also covered the topic of the things to do after replacing the camshaft sensor.
Final Thoughts
As a result, your query has been addressed. Furthermore, we provide important information. I hope you found the article informative. You will find a lot of important information in this article.