A guide to a camshaft position sensor

The camshaft position sensor (CPS) communicates with the Power Control Module (PCM) in your vehicle through a small changing voltage. Read this article to learn more about a camshaft position sensor.

Step one

The Power Control Module (PCM) The PCM or computer uses this varying voltage to adjust fuel injection and determine spark timing. When it fails, your vehicle may stall, go into limp mode or turn on the malfunction indicator light (MIL). On most vehicles though, depending on your particular model, you can fix the problem by simply replacing the sensor in a few minutes.
Gather the necessary tools for the job: - Phillips screwdriver
- Wrench
- Ratchet
- Small ratchet extension
- Socket

Step two

Remove the air cleaner cover and air filter, if your crank sensor is located at the rear and top of your engine and you need room to gain access to it. On some models, like the Nissan Maxima with the VG30E engine, the sensor is located inside the distributor. Still, on other models, like the Opel X20XEV 2.0 Vectra, you will find the sensor under the engine cover and behind the timing belt sprockets at the front of the engine. In this case, you will need to remove the timing belt cover as well to replace the sensor. Use a Phillips screwdriver.

Step three

Unplug the electrical wire from the air temperature sensor on the air hose connected to the air filter box and remove the air hose or remove the distributor cap. If you have to detach the spark plug wires from the distributor cap, label each wire to replace them in their original position. Use a Phillips screwdriver.

Step four

Disconnect the ground (black) battery cable using a wrench. Detach the rotor from the centre of the distributor by hand and the CPS cap screws using a ratchet, small ratchet extension and socket, if your camshaft sensor is located inside the distributor.

Step five

Detach the CPS electrical connector. If your cam position sensor is located inside the distributor, unplug the electrical connector, after completing step six.

Step six

Unfasten the bolt(s) holding the sensor in place using a ratchet, short ratchet extension and socket. Then, remove the sensor from the vehicle.

Step seven

Place the new sensor in place and carefully tighten the mounting bolt(s). Plug in the sensor electrical connector before installing the sensor, if you are installing it inside the distributor.

Step eight

Plug in the sensor electrical connector.

Step nine

Connect the ground (black) battery cable. Replace the CPS cap and rotor, if you are installing the sensor inside the distributor.

Step ten

Replace the air cleaner assembly, if you had to remove it. Replace the distributor cap and wires.