The camshaft helps ensure the engine’s valves open and close at the right time for smooth performance. But what if you see signs of a bad camshaft sensor, and how can you fix it? These thoughts come to your mind when you are stuck in a situation. Don’t worry! You are at the right place to know everything regarding cam sensor symptoms.
What are the 5 Signs of a Bad Camshaft Sensor❓
Engine Misfire
A bad cam can cause a misfire. If a faulty camshaft sensor relays incorrect data, spark timing might be affected, causing a misfire. It could be signs of a bad camshaft sensor.
Check Engine Light
While the camshaft sensor fails, the engine control unit detects an abnormality in the position data that activates the engine light.
Poor Fuel Economy
When the camshaft sensor malfunctions, it disrupts the fuel injection and can take longer to open than required. However, it will allow excess fuel to enter the combustion chamber.
Problem in Transmissions
Furthermore, a camshaft sensor position can damage the transmission by sending incorrect ECU information about the engine speed. This can cause problems with gear shifts, transmission slips, and vehicle stalls.
Vehicle Won’t Start
If the camshaft sensor position is incorrect, the engine can react irregularly, as it relies on the data to ignite. This could be also a signs of a bad camshaft sensor.
What Causes Issues in Camshaft Sensors❓
Failure of the camshaft position sensor can cause various problems, including engine misfires, reduced performance, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
Electrical Problems
- ➡️Damaged wiring can disrupt the connection between the camshaft sensor and the ECU.
- ➡️Poor connections can lead to complete signal loss.
- ➡️Electrical shorts in the circuit can cause sensor failure or erratic behavior.
Sensor Damage
- ➡️The internal components can degrade, especially in older vehicles, damaging the sensors.
- ➡️Meanwhile, external damage from accidents can affect the sensor.
- ➡️Excessive engine heat can cause the sensor to overheat and fail prematurely.
Contamination
- ➡️Engine oil leaking onto the sensor can interfere with its ability to read the camshaft’s position accurately.
- ➡️Dirt, dust, or metallic debris can disrupt the sensor’s functionality, particularly in older engines.
Manufacturing Defects
- ➡️Low-quality sensors can fail prematurely.
- ➡️Rare manufacturing defects in OEM parts can also lead to early sensor failure.
How to Replace the Faulty Camshaft?
The camshaft is a critical engine component, and its replacement involves disassembling various parts.
Tools and Materials Required
- 🗹Socket and wrench set
- 🗹Screwdrivers
- 🗹Torque wrench
- 🗹Engine hoist
- 🗹Camshaft installation lubricant
- 🗹Timing marks or alignment tool
- 🗹Gasket set
- 🗹New camshaft
Steps to Replace the Camshaft
- 🗹Ensure your car is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
- 🗹To prevent electrical problems, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- 🗹Drain the fluids to avoid spillage when removing components.
- 🗹Carefully remove the timing chain or belt. Use timing marks to ensure the engine remains in proper alignment.
- 🗹Remove components connected to the camshaft, such as the rocker arms, lifters, or pushrods.
- 🗹Check related components like lifters, timing chains, and bearings for wear. Replace them if necessary.
- 🗹Clean the camshaft housing and surrounding areas thoroughly.
- 🗹Apply a camshaft installation lubricant to the lobes of the new camshaft.
- 🗹Slide the new camshaft into position, ensuring it aligns appropriately with the bearings.
- 🗹Add new engine oil and coolant to the system.
- 🗹Reattach the negative battery terminal.
How Much Does Camshaft Replacement Cost❓
Replacing a camshaft can be a considerable investment. The cost is influenced by the vehicle’s model, labor rates, and the quality of the parts.
- ➡️For most vehicles, replacement camshafts range from $200 to $500.
- ➡️For high-performance camshafts, the price ranges from $500 to $2,000 or more.
- ➡️Labor rates are between $75 and $150 per hour.
Why to Choose Us❓
Cost Savings: Used parts are cheaper than brand-new components, providing premium quality parts.
Eco-Friendly: Buying used camshafts can help recycle car parts, reduce waste, and protect the environment.
Availability: Many older vehicle parts are only available through used options. We provide all types of aftermarket car parts.
Reliable: Our used car parts are carefully inspected and tested to ensure you meet safety and functionality standards, giving you peace of mind with every purchase.
Also Read: How Much HP Does a Cam Add?
Frequently Asked Questions
However, when your car’s camshaft is affecting its performance, it is suggested that you replace it. Possible factors include decreased engine power, misfires, and unusual engine noises.
Various types of car camshafts are available on the market, and you can buy them according to your needs, such as stock, performance, or racing camshafts.
Buying a new camshaft can be expensive, depending on your model and requirements. However, you can buy a used car camshaft and check all aspects, like design, brand, and specification. The cost will vary from $100 to $500.
A few signs indicate a bad camshaft, such as when your engine causes misfires, issues in transmission, or your vehicle does not start. When you face these issues, you can call our agents for assistance.
