What problems can a faulty camshaft position sensor cause in a car?
2 Answers
Automobile camshaft position sensor failure can cause the following problems: 1. Impact of camshaft position sensor failure: The camshaft position sensor significantly affects the system's emissions. When the sensor malfunctions, the vehicle may experience difficulty starting; 2. Structure of camshaft position sensor: When the crankshaft position sensor system fails, the camshaft position sensor will utilize cylinder identification signals to provide different controls to various engine components; 3. Fault diagnosis of camshaft position sensor: When the camshaft position does not match the position commanded by the electronic control unit, it will cause the camshaft position sensor to malfunction.
With over 20 years of experience in auto repair, I've seen camshaft position sensor failures as a common issue. When it fails, the engine becomes difficult to start, sometimes even refusing to turn over after multiple attempts. While driving, the car may experience unexplained shaking and sluggish acceleration, as if the throttle isn't responding. Fuel consumption also increases because the Engine Control Module (ECU) can't receive accurate signals, disrupting fuel injection and ignition timing – essentially burning fuel inefficiently and wasting money. The engine warning light on the dashboard stays illuminated as a clear indicator of trouble. In severe cases, it may cause sudden engine stall while driving, creating safety hazards. For those with mechanical skills, you can check for loose connections or dust accumulation on the sensor plug, but most situations require replacement. I've seen many vehicles develop worsened carbon buildup from this issue, leading to higher repair costs. Regular maintenance cleaning of the connector during servicing can help extend its lifespan.
