how many camshaft position sensors are in a car

[Crystal]

Most cars have one camshaft position sensor per camshaft. The exact number depends entirely on the engine's design. A common 4-cylinder engine with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) will have one sensor. A V6 or V8 with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per bank will typically have two or four sensors, respectively. Some older engines with a single camshaft in the engine block might only have one.

This sensor is critical. It tells the engine's computer (the PCM) the exact position of the camshaft. The PCM uses this data, along with input from the crankshaft position sensor, to precisely time fuel injection and ignition spark. If this sensor fails, you'll likely experience poor performance, rough idling, stalling, and the check engine light will illuminate, often with codes like P0340.

Here's a quick reference for common engine layouts:

Engine Configuration	Typical Number of Camshafts	Typical Number of Camshaft Position Sensors
Inline 4-Cylinder (SOHC)	1	1
Inline 4-Cylinder (DOHC)	2	2
V6 Engine (DOHC)	4	4
V8 Engine (DOHC)	4	4
Older V8 (Pushrod)	1	1

It's not always a one-to-one ratio. Some modern engines use more sophisticated systems that might combine functions, but the general rule holds. The best way to know for sure is to consult your vehicle's service manual. Replacing one isn't usually a major job, but diagnosis is key, as symptoms can mimic other issues.