Cam gear sensor !

[mohakash]

Hi all,
I have checked my 01 Corolla from a Toyota dealer and they have said that I should replace the 'Cam Gear Sensor'. I have tried to look over the interned about this sensor but was not able to find it. Can anybody tell me more on that. Thanks - Syed

[jdmccright]

The camshaft position sensor detects the position of the camshaft and compares it to the crankshaft via its own sensor. This is done so that the ECM knows when to fire the ignition coils at the best time for performance, economy, or emissions control when that info is taken in along with a myriad of other sensors such as rpms, vehicle speed, throttle position, engine temperature, air intake temperature, etc. On vehicles with variable valve timing (where the angular relationship between the camshaft and crankshaft can be varied "on the fly"), this sensor becomes even more important to obtain the best possible performance/economy.

You didn't say what the symptoms were that led the dealer to suggest this repair, so I only hope that the dealer you have is a reputable one. Hope this helps!

[mohakash]

Thanks for your reply and you are right that I took it to Green's Toyota. I had a check engine light on before and they suggest me to do some repair few items. Among others like drive belt, mass air flow sensor, this cam gear sensor is one of them. But my question is is it really called 'cam gear sensor' or it is 'camshaft positioning sensor.' I would like to repair from my own mechanic and so I need the info clearly. The part number is : 13050-22011. If I know exactly what sensor I want it will be of great help. I have a timing chain too. Thanks and hope to get advice.

[jdmccright]

Your trusted mechanic should be able to read the trouble codes from your ECM to verify what the dealer is saying. The codes should be cleared and then run the car to be sure they come up again...who knows what your dealer is seeing versus saying? Even AutoZone or other parts stores will usually read your codes for free, and they're completely impartial since you're there with them reading it off of the diagnostic tool. Post back with the trouble codes you're getting and someone here might be able to confirm/dispute the dealer's suggestions.

And yes, it is called a "camshaft position sensor"...and yes, your Corolla has "VVT-i" meaning variable valve timing. If your car feels sluggish, especially at higher rpms, then this could be the culprit.