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Home / Symptoms / Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost

the camshaft position sensor costs around 200 USD to replace, but it might need additional costs for inspection

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How much is a camshaft position sensor replacement?

The average cost of replacing a camshaft position sensor for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $160 and $240, depending on the vehicle model.

For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, a camshaft position sensor replacement can fall around the $250 range on a 2024 Mercedes G-Wagon.

What are the costs of changing the camshaft position sensor?

A camshaft position sensor replacement uses resources and labor and relies on professional facilities. All of that changes the cost of replacing the part. Let’s discuss these aspects in more detail:

The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.
The shop’s neighborhood/area: Areas will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has prices different from Albuquerque in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.
The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the camshaft position sensor. For example, an Audi camshaft position sensor replacement can typically start at $250 and go above $300.

Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

Are you experiencing difficulty starting the engine or long cranking times?

A failing camshaft position sensor can cause the engine to struggle when starting or require multiple attempts before turning over. Since the sensor helps the ECU determine fuel injection and ignition timing, a malfunction can disrupt the starting process.

Does the engine stall unexpectedly while driving?

If the camshaft position sensor sends incorrect signals or fails completely, the engine may stall suddenly. This happens because the ECU loses track of the camshaft’s position, leading to improper fuel delivery or ignition timing.

Have you noticed a drop in engine performance, such as sluggish acceleration or power loss?

A faulty camshaft position sensor can lead to improper fuel injection timing, making the engine feel sluggish or unresponsive. This can result in weak acceleration, hesitation, or overall poor performance.

Are you experiencing rough idling or misfires?

A failing sensor can cause irregular combustion timing, leading to rough idling or misfires. The engine may shake, run unevenly, or sound rough due to inconsistent spark and fuel delivery.

Have you noticed a decrease in fuel efficiency?

When the camshaft position sensor isn’t working correctly, the ECU may struggle to optimize fuel injection timing. This can lead to increased fuel consumption because the engine isn't running as efficiently as it should.

Is your check engine light on?

When the camshaft position sensor malfunctions, the ECU typically detects the issue and triggers the check engine light. A diagnostic scan can reveal trouble codes like P0340 or P0341, which indicate problems with the sensor.

What are the common error codes related to a bad camshaft position sensor?

When a camshaft position sensor fails, the check engine light may appear, and specific error codes may be triggered. Some common ones include P0340 (camshaft position sensor circuit malfunction), P0341 (incorrect signal), P0342 (low input), P0343 (high input), and P0344 (intermittent signal). If your car’s OBD-II scanner shows one of these codes, it’s a sign that the sensor may be faulty.

How does a faulty camshaft position sensor impact fuel efficiency?

A malfunctioning camshaft position sensor can affect the engine’s timing, leading to improper fuel injection. This can cause the engine to use more fuel than necessary or, in some cases, too little. As a result, you may notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, with your car consuming more fuel or running less smoothly, making it harder to get the mileage you expect.

Is it safe to drive with a bad camshaft position sensor?

While it’s technically possible to drive with a bad camshaft position sensor, it’s not recommended. A faulty sensor can cause the engine to run poorly, with symptoms like stalling, rough idling, or misfires. In more severe cases, the engine may fail to start altogether. Driving with a bad sensor could lead to further engine damage and reduce your vehicle's performance, so it’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible.

How can I test the camshaft position sensor?

To test the camshaft position sensor, you can use a multimeter or an OBD-II scanner. With a multimeter, you can measure the sensor’s voltage or resistance (depending on the type of sensor), comparing it to the manufacturer’s specifications. If you have an OBD-II scanner, you can check for any error codes and monitor the sensor’s performance in real-time. If the sensor isn’t working as expected, it may need to be replaced.

How often should a camshaft position sensor be replaced?

Typically, a camshaft position sensor doesn’t need regular replacement unless it’s malfunctioning. Most sensors are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, but if you’re experiencing symptoms like poor engine performance, stalling, or hard starting, it may be time to replace it. Be sure to follow any manufacturer recommendations and replace the sensor if you encounter consistent issues.

What’s the difference between a crankshaft position sensor and a camshaft position sensor?

Both the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor monitor critical engine components, but they serve different purposes.

The crankshaft sensor tracks the position and speed of the crankshaft, helping with ignition timing and fuel delivery.
The camshaft sensor monitors the position of the camshaft, helping with valve timing and fuel injection.
Although they both help with engine timing, they are in different locations and perform different functions.

Can a faulty camshaft position sensor affect emissions?

Yes, a bad camshaft position sensor can lead to improper fuel mixture and timing, which can result in higher emissions. A malfunctioning sensor may prevent the engine from running efficiently, leading to excess pollutants being released into the exhaust system. If you’re concerned about emissions, replacing a faulty camshaft position sensor may help reduce harmful emissions and ensure your vehicle passes an emissions test.

How does a failing camshaft position sensor affect engine starting?

A bad camshaft position sensor can cause issues with engine starting. Since the sensor provides critical information about the camshaft’s position, a faulty sensor can confuse the engine control unit (ECU), preventing proper fuel injection and ignition timing. This can result in the engine cranking without starting or taking longer than usual to start. In severe cases, the engine may fail to start at all. If you’re having trouble starting your car, the camshaft position sensor could be the culprit.

Are there more costs to consider besides common replacement costs?

Yes, the common replacement costs are expected in any camshaft position sensor replacement. But you might get a better-specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

Here are the possible types of service you can get.

“Just” a fix: This means you just need the camshaft position sensor replacement and nothing else. The downside is that you might not discover what caused the sensor to go bad in the first place. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s forcing the camshaft position sensor to wear down faster. In this situation, replacing it won’t solve the issue, it might just make you return to the shop shortly to replace the sensor again. Going with this type of service probably won’t have extra costs besides the common ones at first. But it may mean you’ll spend way more than expected if the camshaft position sensor keeps wearing out faster.
Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue causing your camshaft position sensor to wear down faster than expected. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

Costs of a long-lasting camshaft position sensor fix

In addition to the common replacement costs, a long-lasting replacement has more things that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

Transmission system inspection: An ignition system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of your ignition system that involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.
Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn surrounding and affected components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.
Other systems repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the fuel system that are worn out due to bad ignition and combustion can cost north of $1,000.

Symptoms of a bad camshaft position sensor

Here are some of the most common symptoms you’ll notice if your camshaft position sensor starts failing:

Check Engine Light On – The ECU detects a faulty signal and triggers a warning light.
Hard Starting or No Start – The engine may struggle to start or not start at all.
Engine Stalling – The engine may randomly shut off while driving.
Rough Idling & Misfires – The engine may run unevenly, shake, or misfire.
Poor Acceleration – Delayed throttle response or sluggish performance.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency – The ECU may inject too much or too little fuel, leading to higher fuel consumption.
Transmission Shifting Issues – Some cars experience rough or delayed gear shifts due to incorrect timing signals.

What’s at risk with a faulty camshaft position sensor?

Some other car parts that work together with the camshaft position sensor will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the camshaft sensor isn’t dealt with quickly:

Crankshaft Position Sensor – $100 to $300
Timing Chain or Belt – $500 to $1,500
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid – $150 to $400
Ignition Coils – $200 to $600
Fuel Injectors – $300 to $1,000
Engine Control Module (ECM) – $500 to $2,000
Camshaft and Lifters – $700 to $2,500
Catalytic Converter – $900 to $2,500

You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with a faulty camshaft position sensor. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

Engine Stalling in Traffic – A failing sensor can cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Sudden Loss of Power – The vehicle may lose acceleration without warning, making highway driving dangerous.
Unpredictable Engine Behavior – Misfires or rough idling can make the car hard to control, especially at low speeds.
Difficulty Starting in Critical Moments – If the car refuses to start when needed, it could leave you stranded in unsafe areas.
Increased Risk of Rear-End Collisions – Hesitation or power loss while driving can make it harder for other drivers to react.
Compromised Emergency Maneuvers – Delayed throttle response can prevent quick acceleration when trying to avoid a hazard.

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Pinpoint the Issue

Are you experiencing difficulty starting the engine or long cranking times?

A failing camshaft position sensor can cause the engine to struggle when starting or require multiple attempts before turning over. Since the sensor helps the ECU determine fuel injection and ignition timing, a malfunction can disrupt the starting process.
Does the engine stall unexpectedly while driving?

If the camshaft position sensor sends incorrect signals or fails completely, the engine may stall suddenly. This happens because the ECU loses track of the camshaft’s position, leading to improper fuel delivery or ignition timing.
Have you noticed a drop in engine performance, such as sluggish acceleration or power loss?

A faulty camshaft position sensor can lead to improper fuel injection timing, making the engine feel sluggish or unresponsive. This can result in weak acceleration, hesitation, or overall poor performance.
Are you experiencing rough idling or misfires?

A failing sensor can cause irregular combustion timing, leading to rough idling or misfires. The engine may shake, run unevenly, or sound rough due to inconsistent spark and fuel delivery.
Have you noticed a decrease in fuel efficiency?

When the camshaft position sensor isn’t working correctly, the ECU may struggle to optimize fuel injection timing. This can lead to increased fuel consumption because the engine isn't running as efficiently as it should.
Is your check engine light on?

When the camshaft position sensor malfunctions, the ECU typically detects the issue and triggers the check engine light. A diagnostic scan can reveal trouble codes like P0340 or P0341, which indicate problems with the sensor.

FAQ on Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement

What are the common error codes related to a bad camshaft position sensor?

When a camshaft position sensor fails, the check engine light may appear, and specific error codes may be triggered. Some common ones include P0340 (camshaft position sensor circuit malfunction), P0341 (incorrect signal), P0342 (low input), P0343 (high input), and P0344 (intermittent signal). If your car’s OBD-II scanner shows one of these codes, it’s a sign that the sensor may be faulty.
How does a faulty camshaft position sensor impact fuel efficiency?

A malfunctioning camshaft position sensor can affect the engine’s timing, leading to improper fuel injection. This can cause the engine to use more fuel than necessary or, in some cases, too little. As a result, you may notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, with your car consuming more fuel or running less smoothly, making it harder to get the mileage you expect.
Is it safe to drive with a bad camshaft position sensor?

While it’s technically possible to drive with a bad camshaft position sensor, it’s not recommended. A faulty sensor can cause the engine to run poorly, with symptoms like stalling, rough idling, or misfires. In more severe cases, the engine may fail to start altogether. Driving with a bad sensor could lead to further engine damage and reduce your vehicle's performance, so it’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible.
How can I test the camshaft position sensor?

To test the camshaft position sensor, you can use a multimeter or an OBD-II scanner. With a multimeter, you can measure the sensor’s voltage or resistance (depending on the type of sensor), comparing it to the manufacturer’s specifications. If you have an OBD-II scanner, you can check for any error codes and monitor the sensor’s performance in real-time. If the sensor isn’t working as expected, it may need to be replaced.
How often should a camshaft position sensor be replaced?

Typically, a camshaft position sensor doesn’t need regular replacement unless it’s malfunctioning. Most sensors are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, but if you’re experiencing symptoms like poor engine performance, stalling, or hard starting, it may be time to replace it. Be sure to follow any manufacturer recommendations and replace the sensor if you encounter consistent issues.
What’s the difference between a crankshaft position sensor and a camshaft position sensor?
Both the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor monitor critical engine components, but they serve different purposes.
- The crankshaft sensor tracks the position and speed of the crankshaft, helping with ignition timing and fuel delivery.
- The camshaft sensor monitors the position of the camshaft, helping with valve timing and fuel injection.
  Although they both help with engine timing, they are in different locations and perform different functions.
Can a faulty camshaft position sensor affect emissions?

Yes, a bad camshaft position sensor can lead to improper fuel mixture and timing, which can result in higher emissions. A malfunctioning sensor may prevent the engine from running efficiently, leading to excess pollutants being released into the exhaust system. If you’re concerned about emissions, replacing a faulty camshaft position sensor may help reduce harmful emissions and ensure your vehicle passes an emissions test.
How does a failing camshaft position sensor affect engine starting?

A bad camshaft position sensor can cause issues with engine starting. Since the sensor provides critical information about the camshaft’s position, a faulty sensor can confuse the engine control unit (ECU), preventing proper fuel injection and ignition timing. This can result in the engine cranking without starting or taking longer than usual to start. In severe cases, the engine may fail to start at all. If you’re having trouble starting your car, the camshaft position sensor could be the culprit.

Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

How to get transparent long-lasting repairs

If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the camshaft position sensor replacement, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

The solution for the root cause of your camshaft position sensor being damaged is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform an ignition system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your camshaft position sensor’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

Let’s see an example of an ignition system investigation because of a faulty camshaft position sensor.

A Transparent, Long-lasting Camshaft Position Sensor Repair Example

A complete ignition system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all ignition components (fuel lines, fuel injectors, valves, spark plugs, etc.) work as expected.

For instance, if a shop is requested to do an ignition system inspection due to a faulty camshaft position sensor, the mechanics will look through each sensor-related component.

They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if is damaging or stressing the camshaft position sensor. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify a culprit causing extra stress on the camshaft position sensor.

What is the camshaft position sensor, exactly?

The camshaft position sensor is a sensor inside the engine that picks up the position and speed of the camshaft; it records information and sends it to the engine control unit (ECU), where a lot of engineering and computer mathematics happen.

But what is the crankshaft? The crankshaft is a long shaft inside the engine that opens and closes valves, specifically the intake and exhaust ones, which are critical for combustion. This shaft works by rotating inside the engine while the vehicle runs; it also works along many pulleys and belts that make it rotate.

Back to the camshaft sensor, the information the camshaft position sensor sends to the engine’s computer (ECU) helps control the fuel sent to the engine, the combustion timing, and valve timing, ensuring the engine runs well.

Camshaft Position Sensor DIY: Testing and Replacement

The camshaft position sensor sits inside the engine, behind layers and layers of small and large components, making it one of the hardest parts to remove.

Where is the camshaft position sensor?

The camshaft position sensor is located in different spots depending on the engine type and vehicle model. Your best bet is to check your vehicle’s manual.

1. Inline (Straight) Engines (I4, I6, etc.)

Typically located on the top or side of the cylinder head, near the camshaft.
May be at the front or rear of the engine, close to the timing chain or belt cover.

2. V-Shaped Engines (V6, V8, V10, etc.)

Each bank of cylinders may have one or two camshaft sensors (for dual overhead cam engines).
Usually found on the front, rear, or sides of the cylinder heads, near the camshafts.
In some designs, it may be behind the intake manifold.

3. Boxer (Flat) Engines (Subaru, Porsche, etc.)

Located on the left and right cylinder heads, near the camshafts.
Often found toward the rear of the engine, near the firewall.

4. Overhead Valve (OHV) Engines (Pushrod Engines, like some V8s)

Since the camshaft is inside the engine block, the sensor is typically mounted on the engine block itself, near the timing chain cover.

5. Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) vs. Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) Engines

SOHC engines: Usually have one camshaft sensor, typically near the camshaft gear.
DOHC engines: May have two camshaft sensors (one for each camshaft), located on the front, side, or rear of the cylinder head.

How do you test the camshaft position sensor?

You can test the camshaft position sensor by either using a multimeter to check for voltage or an OBD-II scanner.

Multimeter

After finding and disconnecting the sensor:

Set the Multimeter to DC Voltage (For 3-Wire Sensors)

Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (don’t start the engine).
Identify the power wire (usually 5V or 12V) and the ground wire using a wiring diagram.
Connect the multimeter probes: red to the power wire, black to ground.
A working sensor should show 5V or 12V on the multimeter. If there’s no power, check the fuse or wiring.

Check the Signal Wire (For 3-Wire Sensors)

Connect the red probe to the signal wire, black to ground.
Have someone crank the engine while watching the multimeter.
A good sensor should show a fluctuating voltage (0V to 5V or 0V to 12V) as the engine turns.
No voltage change = bad sensor.

Test Resistance (For 2-Wire Sensors – Hall Effect or Magnetic Sensors)

Set the multimeter to Ohms (Ω).
Place the probes on both sensor terminals.
Compare the resistance reading to the manufacturer’s specs (usually between 200 to 2,000 ohms).
An open circuit (infinite resistance) or very low resistance (near 0 Ω) means a faulty sensor.

DIY camshaft position sensor replacement

After locating the sensor, disconnecting it, and having the proper tools in hand:

Remove the Old Sensor

Unscrew the bolt(s) holding the sensor in place using a socket wrench.
Gently twist and pull the sensor out.

Install the New Sensor

Compare the new sensor with the old one to ensure it matches.

Insert the new sensor into place and tighten the bolt.

Reconnect the Electrical Connector

Make sure it clicks into place securely.

Reconnect the Battery

If you disconnected it earlier, reattach the negative terminal.

Clear Error Codes (If Needed)

Use an OBD-II scanner to erase the check engine light, or drive the car for a while to reset the system.

Test the Car

Start the engine and check for smooth operation and no warning lights.

The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

This method focuses on two things:

Does the shop have a modern DVI?
Does the shop have certifications?

What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, It’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it. The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition.

The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

A DVI helps with a torque converter replacement

The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (spark plugs, engine modules, fluid levels, camshaft, fuel injectors, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

Here are some important things about a DVI:

It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s component’s surface, searching for obvious problem signs.
It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.
It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

If they spot camshaft sensor issues, they’ll take photos of them and edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic found that the engine wasn't starting due to an internal failure in the camshaft position sensor, possibly because of its age.

Faulty camshaft sensor

A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future.

In this case, they’ll see a camshaft position sensor replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

Certifications that help you

Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.