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Camshaft Position Sensor: Description and Operation



CAMSHAFT POSITION (CMP) SENSOR

This engine uses 4 camshaft position (CMP) sensors, one for each camshaft. The CMP sensor signals are a digital ON/OFF pulse, output 4 times per revolution of the camshaft. The CMP sensor does not directly affect the operation of the ignition system. The CMP sensor information is used by the engine control module (ECM) to determine the position of the 4 camshafts relative to the crankshaft position. By monitoring the CMP and crankshaft position (CKP) signals the ECM can accurately time the operation of the fuel injectors. The ECM supplies the CMP sensor with a 5-volt reference circuit and a low reference circuit. The CMP sensor signals are an input to the ECM. These signals are also used to detect camshaft alignment with the crankshaft.