The camshaft position sensor provides voltage pulses that identify the position of the number 1 cylinder. The information is then used to control ignition timing and the timing of the fuel injectors. While it is very rare that the camshaft position sensor fails, when it does it could cause problems ranging from no-spark to performance issues causing the necessity of a camshaft position sensor replacement.
There are two common locations for the camshaft position sensor: in the timing cover and on or near the valve cover. When replacing a camshaft position sensor the technician disconnects the negative battery terminal and removes the electrical connector to the sensor. Then the holding fastner and the sensor are removed. If the sensor is located the hole where the old sensor was located is cleaned. The new sensor is installed, the fastener tightened, and the electrical connecter and battery terminal are reconnected. Then the technician resets the camshaft adaption for the powertrain control module (PMC). Finally, the technician clears any PCM codes and performs a Drive Cycle Test drive to verify the success of the repair.
Manufacturer's may cover a camshaft position sensor replacement under the bumper-to-bumper warranty portion of the factory warranty. Refer to you warranty manual to confirm that the sensor is covered. The more comprehensive plans available through an extended auto warranty may cover the cost of replacing a camshaft position sensor as well.