Can You Drive with a Damaged Camshaft Sensor?

2 Answers
Cooper
07/25/25 4:27pm
You cannot drive with a damaged camshaft sensor. Below is relevant information about the camshaft sensor: 1. The camshaft position sensor determines the ignition sequence. If it is damaged, it can cause ignition failure, making the engine difficult to start. When the camshaft position sensor is damaged, the ECU cannot detect changes in the camshaft's position, leading to incorrect detection of its position changes. This affects the intake and exhaust systems' air intake and exhaust volume, thereby impacting engine performance. A damaged camshaft position sensor can cause the ECU to spray fuel randomly, resulting in increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and inability to reach higher RPMs. 2. The camshaft position sensor is a sensing device, also known as a synchronization signal sensor. It serves as a cylinder identification and positioning device, providing the ECU with camshaft position signals, which are the primary control signals for ignition.
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StJuliana
08/11/25 9:49pm
I've repaired quite a few camshaft sensor issues before. To be honest, you can still barely drive with this problem, but it's very risky. The camshaft sensor controls the engine's ignition timing. Once it fails, it sends erratic signals, causing misfires, car shaking, and starting difficulties. The worst fear is sudden engine stall while driving. I've seen owners stubbornly keep driving, only to have fuel consumption skyrocket and engine damage multiply several times over. Modern cars are especially sensitive and can easily enter protection mode, limiting speed. I recommend pulling over immediately to check. Replacing the sensor isn't expensive - just a couple hundred yuan will fix it. Otherwise, delaying might burn out the ECU, costing thousands to repair. Safe driving comes first - don't push your luck.
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