MB Medic Mercedes-Benz Repair Guides, Service, How To DIY
This article discusses Mercedes Camshaft Position Sensor / Camshaft Hall Sensor (CAM) problems, symptoms, and how to replace the CAM yourself. Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor (also referred to as Camshaft Hall Sensor) on a Mercedes-Benz is very easy and can be completed in less than 15 minutes, assuming you have the right tools.
Symptoms of a failed Camshaft Sensor
Wondering what happens when a crankshaft position sensor goes bad? Watch the following video to find out.
If the camshaft sensor has failed, you will notice some or all of the following:
- Check Engine Light – (CEL) / Service Engine Warning may turn on, and you will have a fault code related to the CAM sensor.
- Intermittent starting – This is a very common problem if the Camshaft Sensor starts to fail. You may notice the car starts fine one day and then hesitates to start the next. It could also be that the car starts fine when cold, but if it warms up, it’s hard to restart it.
- Loss of engine power – Less common, but it is possible that the car may hesitate under acceleration or even trigger misfire codes. This is caused because the Electronic Control Module (ECM / ECU) does not receive any information from the CAM sensor, so it doesn’t know the crankshaft position.
Fault Codes related to Camshaft Sensor
P0340 fault code is often detected, which points to a camshaft position (hall) sensor fault. The problem could be the wiring, camshaft sensor, or even the ECU.
How to replace the Camshaft Position Sensor on a Mercedes-Benz
Tools Required
| FEMALE E-TORX (Star) Socket Set |
Parts Required
You will be surprised how inexpensive a CAMshaft position sensor is. If you go to Amazon, you will find a CAM sensor for any Mercedes-Benz model. Visit the link below to check current prices.
| MERCEDES-BENZ Camshaft Position Sensor |
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these steps to replace the camshaft position sensor on your Mercedes-Benz E, C, S, CLK, ML-Class, and other models.
- Open the hood and locate the camshaft position/hall sensor.
- Unplug the electrical connector from the camshaft position sensor.
- Remove the bolt using E-8 Female Torx socket.
- Pull out the old camshaft position sensor.
- Install the new camshaft sensor. Ensure that the old o-ring is removed and a new one is installed.
- Tighten the bolt to 8Nm or 70 in-lbs. Connect the electrical connector and replace the engine cover if removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor (Camshaft Hall Sensor) on a Mercedes-Benz cost?
The cost to replace the camshaft position sensor can vary from $150 to $300, depending on the auto repair shop and your location. You could replace the camshaft position sensor yourself in less than 15 minutes and spend
What happens when the camshaft position sensor goes bad?
Once the camshaft position sensor fails on your Mercedes-Benz, you may start noticing any of the following: the car will hesitate to start, the engine cranks but does not start or start after several tries, the engine runs rough, the engine multiple cylinder misfire and lack of power or acceleration.
Where is the Mercedes-Benz Camshaft Hall Position Sensor located?
The camshaft position sensor on Mercedes-Benz cars with 6, 8, and 12-cylinder engines is located on the front of the engine toward the top, near the valve cover.
How do camshaft position sensors work?
The camshaft position sensor is an electronic device used in gasoline engines to monitor the position or the rotational speed of the camshaft. The engine management system (ECU/ ECM) uses the position location to adjust the timing, fuel injection, and other engine parameters.
Possible Solutions to the camshaft position sensor problem?
First, you must replace or ensure the camshaft position sensor works properly. Then, you can perform further diagnosis and check the following.
- Using a digital multimeter, check the wires to make sure there is continuity.
- Unplug the electrical connector going to the camshaft position sensor.
- A defective engine control unit (ECU) could also be the cause.
Is it CAM or CPS?
A common misconception about the CAMshaft position sensor or the hall sensor is its acronym. The correct acronym is CAM, not CPS. CPS stands for Crankshaft Position Sensor, which monitors the rotational speed of the crankshaft.
How to test a camshaft position sensor?
Testing the camshaft position sensor is easy and can be completed at home using basic tools.
I replaced the camshaft position sensor, but my check engine light is still on.
If you replaced the camshaft position sensor and your check engine light is still on, you may need to check if there are any other fault codes. To do this, you will need an OBD2 scanner. We highly recommend that you get a hold of an OBD2 scanner. Some of them cost less than $20 USD. You can read this article that can help you choose the right OBD 2 scanner for Mercedes-Benz.
What is the Best OBD-II Scanner for my Mercedes-Benz?
The YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner is a powerful tool to help you troubleshoot Mercedes-Benz problems quickly and efficiently. This scanner can communicate with all the control units in your Mercedes-Benz, including the engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and more. By accessing real-time data from these control units, you can pinpoint the root cause of the problem and take appropriate action to resolve it.
Whether you’re experiencing issues with your engine, transmission, or other systems in your Mercedes-Benz, the YOUCANIC diagnostic scanner can provide valuable insight into what’s going on under the hood. This scanner can help you identify error codes, read live data, and perform special functions like reset adaptations or component tests. With this information, you can make informed decisions about repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to keep your Mercedes-Benz running smoothly.
Overall, the YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner is invaluable for any Mercedes-Benz owner or technician looking to troubleshoot problems quickly and accurately. With its user-friendly interface and powerful diagnostic capabilities, you can save time, money, and frustration by diagnosing and resolving issues with your Mercedes-Benz quickly and efficiently.
Mercedes-Benz models.
These instructions will also help if you have a newer Mercedes-Benz with V6 or V8 engines, such as M272 or M273.
| M112 V6 Engine | M113 V8 Engine |
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xclnt article- thanks!
In my scanner code p0012 what Does that mean and what is the cause and how do I fix the problem thx
How many camshaft sensor 2006 cls 500
We have a 2013 MB GL 350 Blue Tec. Dashboard “check engine” light came about 2 months ago. We had it checked by MB and they told us they could find nothing wrong. However, they suggested that we possibly consider replacing the main sensor for $1300.
2 days ago we lost power, the turbo wouldn’t kick in and the engine began to skip. The following day the engine light came on and the turbo skips and works occasionally.
We are on vacation, called the MB dealer and they can only see us in a week.
What do you think it could be and will it hurt to drive it until they will take it in for servicing. We have no other means of transportation
I have replaced both Sensors on my 2013 C250. I also replaced my ignition coils and spark plugs. The car still starts roughh! Ang ideas? The check engine light was on and the code was faulty Cam Shaft Sensor, bank 1. Any ideas as to what I do next?
There are 3 or 4 camshaft sensors in a 2007 MB E550. How do you know which one to replace.
If you had a proper scanner you will be able to test any of them. Also check the fault codes. The fault code may point you to the sensor that needs to be replaced. Driver side / left is bank one. Passenger side is bank two. Then you could have front or rear depending on the code.