Camshaft Position Sensors

Courtesy of JAGUAR CARS, INC.

The camshaft position (CMP) sensors are MRE (magneto resistive element) sensors that allow the engine control module (ECM) to determine the angular position of the camshafts. MRE sensors produce a digital output which allows the engine control module (ECM) to detect speeds down to zero.

The four camshaft position (CMP) sensors are installed in the front upper timing covers, one for each camshaft.

Each camshaft position (CMP) sensor is secured with a single screw and sealed with an O-ring. On each camshaft position (CMP) sensor, a three pin electrical connector provides the interface with the engine harness.

The head of each camshaft position (CMP) sensor faces a sensor wheel attached to the front of the related variable camshaft timing (VCT) unit.

If an exhaust camshaft position (CMP) sensor fails, the engine control module (ECM) disables the variable camshaft timing (VCT) of both exhaust camshafts.

If an intake camshaft position (CMP) sensor fails, the engine control module (ECM) disables the variable camshaft timing (VCT) of both intake camshafts. This can result in the engine being slow, or failing, to start.