6 Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Camshaft Position Sensor

Timing accuracy is ensured via the camshaft position sensor. Here's how to identify a faulty camshaft position sensor.

Because the engine relies on data from both the crankshaft and camshaft sensors, a problem with any sensor could have an impact on data and performance.

When the engine is running or the vehicle is being driven, the camshaft sensor is constantly in operation. For this reason, the camshaft sensor can become weak over time. Cracks and oil leaks might also cause damage to it occasionally. The ring gear could potentially become worn and affect the readings. By searching online for car garages in Reading and scheduling an appointment, you can ensure that the right diagnoses are performed by a trained mechanic.

In this post, we'll examine the tell-tale indicators of a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor. Let's start by taking a look at the warnings.

A difficult-to-start engine or a dashboard check engine light are the most typical signs of a faulty camshaft position sensor. Other problems like a misfiring engine or poor engine performance could also be apparent.

These are undoubtedly the most typical indicators, though there are others as well. Here is a more thorough description of the six signs and symptoms of a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor:

1. Engine Will Not Start - The most typical sign of all malfunctioning camshaft position sensor symptoms is that the engine won't start, or that it won't start at all. The on-board computer cannot receive the signal from the weaker camshaft sensor, which prevents the ignition system from properly producing a spark. The failure of the camshaft sensor is indicated by the absence of spark, which prevents the engine from starting at all. When a newer car detects that the crankshaft position sensor is malfunctioning, it switches to using the camshaft position sensor.

2. Check Engine Light Illuminates - When the check engine light comes on, this is one of the most frequent reasons for a MOT test failure, according to a search on the internet for "check MOT history." One of several reasons why the check engine light illuminates is a failure of the camshaft position sensor. Often, the only sign that your camshaft position sensor is defective is the dashboard check engine light.It is advised that you see a professional ar mechanic and have your vehicle scanned to check the fault codes if your check engine light comes on. You may also accomplish this with an OBD scanner at home. The "check engine" light is typically ignored by people who are unaware that it could indicate serious engine damage.

3. Poor Engine Performance - Among the most frequent issues brought on by a subpar camshaft position sensor is a sharp decline in engine power. You'll observe a lot of stalling, idle time, and a decrease in engine speed. Additionally, fuel economy falls. All of these issues need to be fixed right away because a failed camshaft position sensor is typically the reason. This occurs most frequently when there is a faulty camshaft position sensor, which might force the engine to enter Limp mode. Find garages in Reading online and make an appointment for accurate diagnosis and repairs for your vehicle.

4. Engine misfires and vibrations - In addition to stalling the engine and causing vibrations, a bad camshaft sensor can result in engine misfires, which can also result in vibrations when accelerating. Checking your car's problem codes is absolutely in order if you notice a decrease in engine performance and a check engine light on the dashboard. A failed emissions test could be caused by this problem, so check MOT status of your car and have a local mechanic repair it.

5. Gear Changing Issues - If your camshaft position sensor is malfunctioning, certain automatic transmission cars won't change gears correctly. This could be because the camshaft position sensor's error code has put the engine into limp mode.

6. Poor Fuel Economy - Reduced power as a result of the camshaft position sensor could also result in bad fuel consumption. When it comes to a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor, this is rather uncommon, but it is not impossible. Check the fault codes immediately if you notice increased fuel consumption for any camshaft position sensor-related errors.

What is the Function of a Camshaft Position Sensor

The primary purpose of the camshaft sensor in your car is to cooperate with the crankshaft sensor. Its goal is to precisely pinpoint where the camshaft drive is located. It produces indications similarly to the crankshaft position sensor as a result. It aids in determining the precise moment the first cylinder is in the top dead centre position for the engine.

The engine system uses the data produced by the camshaft for a variety of functions. In essence, the knowledge aids in the sequential injection's first injection process. Additionally, it adjusts the knock control and supports the actuation signal for the pump nozzle injection system.

The basic idea behind how a camshaft sensor operates is the Hall principle. The voltage of the Hall IC, which is housed in the sensor head, changes as a result of the rotation of a ring gear on the camshaft, which is being scanned. This produces a change in the voltage transmission of the control unit.

The computerised system reads the information resulting from the modification electronically and evaluates it before recording it. In other words, a defective camshaft can also interfere with the crankshaft position sensor's operation, which will ultimately lead to a number of issues with the engine performance of your car as a whole.

Location of the Camshaft Position Sensor

The camshaft position sensor can also be installed from the side of the cylinder head, but it is always situated close to the camshaft, frequently at the top of the valve cover.

The camshaft position sensor can be found by looking around the head or valve cover and following any electrical lines.