Our Community is 940,000 Strong. Join Us.


camshaft position error??


levi5940
11-26-2008, 01:14 PM
hi all, i took my car to get the check engine light off, or at least diagnosed. well they told me it was a camshaft sensor position error. can anyone tell me what i can do to fix this or where its located so i can better understand this problem they seemed somewhat clueless at schuks about this, and couldnt erase the check engine light,.. thanks also the car is a 05 dodge neon sxt

denisond3
11-26-2008, 03:19 PM
When the car was first started, the PCM learned where the crankshaft position sensor was reporting the crankshaft, and where the cam position sensor was reporting the cam. That is what it would consider to be the correct cam position from that day forward; at least until the battery is disconnected.
If the timing belt is worn or not tight or has a couple of teeth missing, the camshaft can get rotated relative to where it should be, and the PCM would report the error. Even if the timing belt only let the cam get one tooth out of position, the car would have lots less power. I think it more likely there is a problem with the connector at the cam position sensor, or with the cam position sensor itself.
If you want to do the work, you can check the position of the camshaft, versus the position of the crankshaft. Having a manual, even a Chilton or Haynes would give you the procedure for examing the 'cam timing'. And if the timing ihas gotten off one tooth, its likely the car needs a new timing belt and idler/tensoner. Its also likely it will slip another tooth or two fairly soon - assuming your timing belt has slipped. Drive gently! Avoid sudden engine rpm changes!
I consider it equally likely that the problem is with the cam position sensor, or its connection. Luckily those cam position sensors are not too expensive, and they often come with a new connector in the box.

Add your comment to this topic!