In this video, I show you the exact location and replacement process for both the Intake and Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensors (CMP) on a 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze (first-generation model) equipped with the 1.4L engine. Knowing exactly where this pair of sensors sits on the cylinder head and the correct steps to safely swap them out is an essential part of a clean DIY engine management fix, saving you time and keeping you organized before you disconnect any wiring.
Common symptoms of a faulty Camshaft Position Sensor include:
- An active Check Engine Light (CEL) on your dashboard, typically triggering specific camshaft circuit codes like P0340, P0341, P0365, or P0366.
- Intermittent engine stalling, a rough or unstable idle, or a long crank time before the engine finally catches and starts up.
- Sluggish acceleration, poor engine responsiveness, and a noticeable drop in fuel economy because the engine computer loses precise timing control over fuel injection and ignition.
Safety First: Working on electronic engine sensors requires standard garage safety precautions. Always make sure the ignition is completely off and the key is removed from the vehicle before disconnecting any electrical plugs to prevent voltage spikes or module damage. Let the engine cool down completely to avoid severe burns from hot engine components, protect your hands and eyes by wearing durable gloves and safety glasses, and stay fully focused and attentive throughout the entire process.
As an experienced mechanic with a deep background in professional automotive repair and diagnostics, I am here to help you get your car’s engine timing systems working right. If you run into any issues releasing the small plastic locking tabs on the wiring harness plugs or have questions about clearing the trouble codes after the install, just leave a comment below and I will help you out!