The camshaft position sensor is used to measure the rotational speed of the camshaft, or camshafts, in your engine. This information, along with information from various other sensors, is sent back to the ECU where it is used to make small changes in ignition timing or other engine parameters.

This sensor also plays a major role in engines with variable valve timing, as the information sent to the ECU from this sensor is used to compare the position of the valves to the pistons in order to make adjustments to valve timing.

If you camshaft position sensor has failed, you may notice symptoms such as an illuminated check engine light, rough idle, and poor fuel economy. The only way to remedy this is by replacing the failed camshaft position sensor.