When it comes to the proper functioning of a modern vehicle, several electronic systems and sensors play a crucial role in ensuring optimum performance. One such system is the camshaft position sensor that is responsible for monitoring the speed and position of a camshaft. The sensor, like other sensors such as a mass air flow (MAF) sensor, is prone to degradation over time. However, the problem can be addressed timely by keeping an eye on the various camshaft position sensor symptoms indicative of its failure.
Here is a detailed guide on the function as well as the different camshaft position sensor symptoms that show it is malfunctioning.
What is a Camshaft Position Sensor?
A camshaft position sensor is an electronic sensor that determines the position and speed of a camshaft. It sends data to the engine control module (ECM) of the car, which in turn determines the amount of fuel to enter the combustion engine as well as the fuel ignition timing.
A camshaft position sensor may be located at a different place in a car depending on the car model and manufacturer. It can be found in the vehicles’ lifter valley or cylinder head or next to the engine block.
A camshaft position sensor ensures that the air/fuel mixture gets accurately ignited at the right time. This means better fuel efficiency and engine power along with fewer exhaust emissions.
Symptoms of Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
A consumable part of the engine, the camshaft position sensor is likely to be subjected to wear and tear over time. There are quite a few camshaft position sensor failure symptoms. These include:
1. Poor Fuel Efficiency
A bad camshaft position sensor is likely to send inaccurate information to the ECM. In such cases, your vehicle engine will consume more fuel as the ignition timing will be disturbed. Therefore, poor fuel economy is one of the symptoms of a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor.
2. Engine Issues
Severe rough idling is another prominent symptom of a bad camshaft position sensor. Similarly, when the appropriate amount of fuel is not delivered to the engine, stalling may occur. Moreover, hesitation when accelerating is another engine-related issue tied to a failing camshaft sensor. Engine misfiring may also occur if this sensor is not working properly.
3. Emission Test Failed
An engine that is not working properly due to an inappropriate amount of fuel supply may lead to inefficient burning of fuel. As a result, the exhaust emissions increase.
4. Fuel Smell
Another consequence of inefficient fuel burning is residual unburnt fuel making its way out through the tailpipe of your vehicle. This in turn can emit a noticeable petrol smell in car.
5. Car fails to start
A failing camshaft sensor will eventually send a weak signal to the engine control module. As a result of not receiving a proper signal, the engine may not start.
6. Problems with Transmission
Incorrect data sent to ECM can result in shifting problems with the car transmission. In a few cars, a security feature called ‘limp mode’ is present to prevent major engine damage in such a scenario.
7. Illuminated Check Engine Light
In case of a malfunctioning engine, the check engine light, one of the car dashboard lights is illuminated. This alone is not a symptom of a bad camshaft sensor as it could be due to several other engine issues. However, it will get triggered if the camshaft is failing. In such a situation, stop driving the car and get it checked by a mechanic immediately.
Camshaft position sensor Replacement
Once you observe enough symptoms of a bad camshaft position sensor, it is time to take your car to a reliable car garage. If the sensor is damaged beyond repair, it is time for camshaft sensor replacement.
The price of a camshaft sensor depends on the car model and company of the sensor. The minimum cost ranges between AED 65 to AED 130. However, the replacement cost will be in addition to that and it also depends on the car model and level of technical difficulty.
This concludes our guide on the camshaft position sensor and symptoms indicating failure. If replacing your car’s camshaft doesn’t solve your engine issues and the repairing and maintenance is costing you a lot, it is time to buy a different car. Have a look at these used cars for sale in the UAE to select from a variety of different vehicles.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more information on car parts and repair.
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