Car Engine Stalling

10 Symptoms of A Failing Camshaft Position Sensor in Your Car

by admin December 24, 2020

The camshaft position sensor monitors the camshaft speed and position. It sends the collected data to the engine control module. The ECM is then able to determine how much fuel is needed and the timing of the spark.

Common Causes Camshaft Position Sensor Failure

Just like every other component in your vehicle, the camshaft position sensor can fail. Camshaft position sensors usually fail due to normal everyday wear and tear, and accidents.

Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor

Usually, there are a few warning signs that you may experience when the camshaft position sensor is failing. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:

  • Poor Fuel Economy: A failing camshaft position sensor will provide inaccurate data to the engine control module. With the wrong information, your engine will not be able to run as efficiently as it should causing it to consume more fuel.
  • Stalling: When the fuel injectors are not delivering the proper amount of fuel, the engine could experience stalling.
  • Engine Idles Roughly: A rough idling engine could be caused by a failing camshaft position sensor. This issue is more evident when the engine is idling.
  • Hesitation: Hesitation during acceleration is a common issue that you may experience with a bad camshaft sensor.
  • Failed Emissions Test: When the engine is not performing properly, it will not be able to burn fuel efficiently. This can lead to increased emissions.
  • Smell of Gas: Unburned fuel can make its way out of your tailpipe which can produce a noticeable smell of gas.
  • Car Will Not Start: Over time, as the camshaft position sensor fails, the signal it sends to the engine control module weakens. When the engine no longer receives the signal, you will not be able to start your car.
  • Engine Misfires: A failing camshaft position sensor can cause your engine to misfire.
  • Transmission Shifting Problems: The data sent to the engine control module can stop the transmission from shifting properly. In some vehicles, there is a security feature that puts the car in “limp mode.” This helps to prevent major engine damage.
  • Check Engine Light is Illuminated: When your vehicle is experiencing a problem, it will trigger the check engine light. The light can be triggered by a number of different reasons. If your warning light is lit on your dashboard, have your mechanic run a diagnostic scan as soon as possible to determine the exact problem. If the light is flashing, stop as soon as it is safe and turn your car off. Call for a tow. Do not continue driving your vehicle.

Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a failing camshaft position failure, book your appointment today. Addressing the issue immediately can prevent additional malfunctions and higher service bills.

Camshaft position sensor replacement can be done quickly and reasonably. Taking care of the failure now can save you money in the future.

Driving with a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor

Although you can continue to drive with a bad sensor, we do not recommend that you do so. Continuing to drive the car can lead to additional failures in other areas of your car, which can end up causing you to have a higher service bill. Your car can also stall when the sensor is failing. This can be dangerous to you, your passengers, and everyone on the road.

Book Your Service Today

At McIlvain Motors, we are here to help you. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your experience is a positive one. We are proud to have the lowest labor Car Camshaft Position Sensor Failure Fixrates in Arizona, and are certain you will be completely satisfied with the service you receive. We even offer free Uber pickup and drop off.

Our mechanics are factory trained and can handle all your vehicle’s service and repair needs. We proudly service Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen models.

McIlvain Motors services drivers in the Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, AZ, area. Whether you require regular maintenance or have a failing camshaft position sensor, give us a call. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to help you. You can reach us at 480-968-2858 or visit us at 939 S. 48th Street, Suite #215, Tempe, AZ.