Q: Check engine light is on, shows cam sensor that I already replaced two times. Still the same code for camshaft sensor. It starts if I unplug cam sensor

asked by on September 19, 2016

Engine light is on and shows camshaft sensor so i replaced two times with the ones from autizone and still same code and issue , it starts when i unplug the cam sensor so i have no idea what can be the proble

My car has 200000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello there, thanks for writing in. I’d be happy to help.

If you replaced the sensor twice and the issue persists, then I would look at the connector and ECM as possible sources of the issue. I would carefully inspect the connector to the cam sensor for any signs of oil leakage, damage, or wear, both on the wires and on the metal contacts. If the wiring looks okay I would move on to testing the wiring to make sure that the correct signal is being generated, if it is not then it may be possible that there is an issue with the ECM or wiring. It may also be possible that the aftermarket sensors are the source of the issue, even if they are new. In many cases aftermarket components are not as high of quality as OEM components, and for that reason can cause issues.

If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make any repairs as needed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How does the auto-reverse function work with power windows?
The power windows of your car are equipped with an auto-reverse feature. It’s designed for safety (pinch protection) – think of the doors in an elevator, or how your garage door will automatically reverse if something breaks the sensor beam....
Push rod keeps bending.
A common issue would be a sticking hydraulic lifter which can end up with enough of a gap between the top of the lifter and the push rod that the push rod can get sideways and end up bent. Another...
Car having trouble shifting gears
Hello! The most common cause of hard shifting is due to low or improper level of the transmission fluid. A qualified mechanic, such as one of our YourMechanic experts, will be able to diagnose your gear shifting problem (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service). The...
Transmission fluid leak
Hello. If you have transmission fluid coming from the front of your vehicle, then you either have a ruptured cooler line or the radiator has cracked where the cooler lines go. I would start by getting under the vehicle to...
We just putting in a brand new battery and alternator and last for the week battery now it won't hold a charge
Several issue may be causing the battery to not charge or not hold a charge (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-will-not-hold-a-charge-inspection). The first and easiest step is to trace the wiring circuit involved with the starting system, and visually inspect it for any physical damage....
Car won't start. Can't determine if either ISM is bad or hydraulic valve body need to be replaced.
I presume your saying that your car does not crank when you turn the key, because that is the only fault I would expect to be associated with transmission parts controllers.The ISM (intellegent servo module) is responsible for the transmission...
Truck will rank but no start. Back fires through intake
With the information that you have provided, it sounds to me like the distributor may have been installed 180 degrees out of rotation. If the engine is turning over so easy that it sounds like there are no plugs in...
My 2006 XJ8 billows lots of smoke under heavy acceleration. The problem is intermittent and does not burn oil all the time. But wh
Hi there. Typically when you have a lot of smoke coming from the exhaust upon acceleration, it's an indication of piston rings that have worn out and require replacement. However, it is also possible that a failure of an oil...
stiff steering wheel after adjusting tire pressure.
The pressure would have to be very low for it to affect your steering effort. But maybe it is. Most auto stores have a basket of tire gauges that they sell on the counter for a few dollars. Most of...

Related articles

2005 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2005 Chevrolet Blazer: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport SUVs are a class all of their own; these vehicles are meant for a fun drive through the woods and across the trail – but not necessarily to Grandma’s house! Think instead about going through the creek and through...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Realtor or Real Estate Agent
If If you make your living as a realtor or real estate agent, you may have a number of considerations when it comes to purchasing a used vehicle. The most common considerations are budget, ability to transport people, and comfort....
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Massage Therapist
If If you're a massage therapist, one of the cornerstones of your business has to be that you don’t keep your clients waiting. That means you need a vehicle that’s reliable. You also will have to move your gear, including...