What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Sensor?
by Jonathan Lister
As automobiles become more complex, they depend on their operational sensors, such as the camshaft sensor, to monitor rotational speeds and assist the on-board computer. When the camshaft sensor malfunctions, it can affect the vehicle's performance, from engine speed to fuel economy. The camshaft sensor is an integral part of the engine's operating system, and losing its functionality can be the tip of the iceberg for greater engine failure. Knowing the symptoms of a bad camshaft sensor can help a mechanic navigate the often complex systems of ignition and engine performance.
Engine Sputtering
The camshaft sensor communicates the positional rotation of the camshaft to the on-board computer. When the censor malfunctions, the readouts may throw off spark timing which will impact fuel economy and cause the engine to misfire in some, if not all, cases.
Poor Acceleration
Since the camshaft is not rotating properly because the sensor is not regulating its speed, the pistons that the sensor monitors will also be out of sync. Fuel will be delivered to the engine intermittently, resulting in poor piston function, and the car will struggle to accelerate and maintain speed. Over time this condition will worsen as more of the car's engine components are affected.
Stalling/Inability to Start
At low speeds a bad camshaft sensor will cause the car's engine to stall. The engine may also experience an inability to turn over, resulting in the car not starting. This may not happen all the time since the car's on-board computer will use the last readouts from the camshaft sensor to operate the pistons and manage fuel flow, which will allow the car to start; however, the driver will continue to experience the other symptoms mentioned above.
References
Writer Bio
Jonathan Lister has been a writer and content marketer since 2003. His latest book publication, "Bullet, a Demos City Novel" is forthcoming from J Taylor Publishing in June 2014. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Shippensburg University and a Master of Fine Arts in writing and poetics from Naropa University.
