Component Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The camshaft position sensor (PHASE) senses the protrusion of exhaust valve cam sprocket to identify a particular cylinder. The camshaft position sensor (PHASE) senses the piston position.

When the crankshaft position sensor (POS) system becomes inoperative, the camshaft position sensor (PHASE) provides various controls of engine parts instead, utilizing timing of cylinder identification signals.

The sensor consists of a permanent magnet and Hall IC.

When engine is running, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change.

The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change.

Fig 1: Identifying Camshaft Position Sensor (POS)

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Due to the changing magnetic field, the voltage from the sensor changes.

ECM receives the signals as shown in the figure.

Fig 2: Camshaft Position Sensor Phase Signal Timing Pattern

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.