The logical next step is to replace the camshaft sensor if you’ve noticed a loud noise coming from under your car’s hood and you’ve established that it’s the culprit. But before you can finish the repair, there are still a few things you need to do.
After replacing the camshaft sensor, make sure to take your car to an experienced mechanic and have them use an OBD-II scanner to reprogram the sensor.
This manual will take you step-by-step through the entire procedure for what to do after changing the camshaft sensor in your car. We will go over every step of the repair process, from planning to successful completion. You should have no trouble taking care of this problem yourself if you follow these instructions!
What’s a Camshaft Sensor
An electronic sensor known as a camshaft sensor is used to track the position or rotational speed of the camshaft. In order to adjust the timing of the fuel injection and ignition systems, the engine control unit (ECU) uses this information.
The ECU’s ability to control when to ignite the spark plugs and inject fuel into each cylinder is crucial because it affects how effectively the engine will operate. Power and efficiency can be lost if the timing is incorrect. In some cases, it even has the potential to harm the engine.
The magnetic pickup and the electronic circuit make up the two main components of the camshaft sensor. The magnetic pickup is made up of a magnet and a wire coil, and it is typically placed close to the camshaft pulley or sprocket.
An electrical signal is produced as the camshaft rotates as the magnet spins past the coil.
This signal is then transmitted to the ECU, which uses it to determine the camshaft’s position. In response, the ECU can modify the fuel injection and ignition timing as necessary.
Other engine parameters, such as oil pressure or coolant temperature, may occasionally be monitored by the camshaft sensor.
Numerous issues may arise if the camshaft sensor fails. An illuminated check engine light on the dash is the most typical symptom. A rough idle, misfires, or a loss of power could be additional symptoms.
Read More: What Type of Oil Does My Car Need
How to Check a Cam Sensor
Checking the cam sensor should be your first course of action if your car’s engine won’t start or is running rough. The engine contains a cam sensor that measures the camshaft’s position. When to ignite the spark plugs and when to inject fuel into the cylinders is communicated to the computer.
It can seriously harm an engine if the cam sensor is malfunctioning. A multimeter is required to inspect the cam sensor. Touch the leads to the two terminals on the cam sensor connector while the multimeter is set to Ohms.
A resistance of 2,000 to 2,500 Ohms is ideal. The cam sensor needs to be changed if it falls outside of this range.
It is crucial to have a cam sensor replaced as soon as you can if it is not functioning properly. If the sensor isn’t changed right away, engine damage might result.
Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for detailed instructions on how to check or replace the cam sensor. The methods for inspecting and replacing parts vary from car to car due to individual differences. To prevent harming your engine, adhere to the directions in your owner’s manual.
What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Sensor
An engine may operate improperly if a camshaft position sensor malfunctions. Frequently, this will also turn on your dashboard’s check engine light.
Five of the most typical signs that the camshaft position sensor needs to be replaced are listed below.
Check Engine Light is On
Check engine light illumination is one of the initial signs frequently connected to a bad or failing camshaft position sensor. One or more of the cylinders may misfire if the camshaft position sensor isn’t functioning properly. The dashboard’s check engine light, which illuminates frequently, can be used to identify this.
Engine Misfiring
Engine misfires are another symptom frequently linked to a bad or failing camshaft position sensor. One or more of the cylinders might misfire if the sensor isn’t functioning correctly. The engine may shake or shudder as well as frequently lose power as a result of this.
Rough Idle
A rough idle is a third sign that the camshaft position sensor may be failing. The engine may run erratically and produce an idle that is rougher than usual if the sensor is not functioning properly. The engine might even stall in a few circumstances.
Stalling
Stalls are a further sign that the camshaft position sensor isn’t working properly. The sensor’s malfunction could lead to the engine running erratically and eventually stalling. A loss of power is another common side effect of this.
Reduced Fuel Economy
Last but not least, decreased fuel efficiency is one of the more typical signs of a camshaft position sensor issue. Poorer fuel economy could result from the sensor not functioning properly, which could make the engine run less effectively.
How to Replace the Camshaft Sensor
You need to keep in mind a few things when replacing a camshaft sensor. To begin with, you need to confirm that you have the appropriate equipment and are knowledgeable in your field. This is particularly true if you lack a mechanical aptitude.
There are a ton of online resources that can guide you through the process step by step if you’re unsure how to replace a camshaft sensor. Videos that demonstrate how to do it are also available.
As soon as you have all of the necessary knowledge and resources, you should get going.
Finding the old sensor is the first thing you need to do. This will typically be near the firewall on the engine block. After locating it, you must unplug the electrical connector.
The old sensor must then be removed from its mounting location. Typically, this is accomplished by removing a few bolts and holding it in place. While doing this, exercise caution to avoid harming any of the nearby components.
The new sensor can now be installed after the old one has been taken out. Before securely tightening all of the bolts, reconnect the electrical connector first. Before starting the engine, make sure everything is secure.
What to Do After Replacing Camshaft Sensor?
Before replacing the camshaft sensor, make sure to check the engine oil’s quality and level. If the oil is dirty or low, the sensor could break down. Make sure to check the wiring and connector for any damage as well.
After swapping out the camshaft sensor, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle. There could be more underlying problems if the P0340 error code keeps occurring.
This sensor must be recognized by an engine control module, which will then restore its factory settings. I personally replaced the battery in my own car after disconnecting it for five minutes to allow any stored charge in the electrical system to be released.
After confirming that all connections were solid, reattach the battery lead. the car ran smoothly after the engine was started. As soon as I got back to the shop, I did connect to a GM scan tool and reset the tune.
Conclusion
I appreciate your reading. We hope this article was helpful in answering the question what to do after replacing camshaft sensor.
Take your car to a qualified mechanic after you’ve replaced the camshaft sensor, and ask them to use an OBD-II scanner to reprogram the sensor. By doing this, any error codes will be removed, and the engine computer will be assured that the new sensor is sending accurate signals. You can, of course, reprogramme yourself if you’re feeling confident.
FAQs
Do You Have to Reprogram a Camshaft Sensor?
It’s obvious that a camshaft position sensor cannot be reset. Therefore, if your camshaft experiences problems (check engine light on, sputtering and stalling, etc.), you must replace the component.).
Why Won’t My Car Start After Replacing the Cam Sensor?
If the new camshaft position sensor is not functioning, the systems in your car won’t be getting the data they need to keep the engine running. This may result in your car not starting at all. Alternatively, something in the engine may have been harmed or improperly reinstalled while the sensor was being installed.
What Causes Camshaft Sensor to Keep Going Out?
Timing belt damage, poor wiring, overheating, crank walks, and other factors may be the main causes. Wear and tear, water damage, and oil embedded in the engine are some of these as well; since these things accumulate over time, they can also harm the engine’s camshaft.