Where is the camshaft position sensor a circuit bank 1 or single sensor location?

In most modern engines, the camshaft position sensor (CMP) location depends on the engine’s design. The short answer is that many multi-bank engines use a CMP on each bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2), while some inline or specialty engines rely on a single CMP. The exact spot varies by make and model, so consult the vehicle’s service manual for your specific engine.

Two CMP sensors on multi-bank engines (Bank 1 and Bank 2)

When an engine has two camshafts and two separate cylinder heads, manufacturers typically install one CMP on each bank to monitor that bank’s camshaft position. This arrangement helps the engine control module manage precise timing for both banks independently.

• Common locations: near the timing cover or behind the valve cover on each head, adjacent to its respective camshaft or cam gear.


• Bank 1 CMP is usually on the head containing cylinder 1; Bank 2 CMP on the opposite head.


• Sensor type: most CMP sensors are Hall-effect or variable-reluctance types with 2–3 wires (power, ground, signal); wiring varies by manufacturer.


• Identification: connectors and mounting points are typically documented in factory diagrams and service manuals.

For vehicles with two CMP sensors, the engine control unit uses inputs from both sensors to synchronize timing for both banks, often in conjunction with the crankshaft position sensor. If one sensor fails, codes may indicate a bank-specific CMP issue and can affect performance or misfire recovery.

Single CMP sensor setups

Some engines rely on a single camshaft position sensor rather than one per bank. In these designs, the CMP monitors one camshaft (often the intake or exhaust cam on one bank), and the ECU correlates that information with the crankshaft position to manage timing for the entire engine. Inline engines commonly fall into this category since there is only one camshaft per engine block.

• Typical inline engines (I4, I6) often use a single CMP mounted near the front timing cover or on the cam/gear area.


• Some V-configured engines employ a single CMP mounted on the front of the engine; the ECU uses crank position data and cam phasing to infer timing for the other bank.


• Wiring generally includes power, ground, and signal lines; the remaining timing data are supplied by the crank sensor and engine control logic.

If your vehicle uses a single CMP, consult the service manual for the exact location and diagnosis steps, since codes may point to the sensor itself or to the timing relationship between crank and cam.

How to identify the bank definitions and exact sensor location on your vehicle

Bank 1 is the bank of cylinders that contains cylinder number 1. This convention is used across most manufacturers and service documents. To locate the CMP(s) on your specific vehicle, use the following approach:

• Check the owner’s manual or a factory service manual for the engine layout and sensor locations.


• Inspect the timing cover area: two sensors (one per head) are typically mounted on multi-bank engines; a single sensor is usually near the front timing belt/chain cover on inline engines.


• Identify cylinder 1 on your engine and confirm which head or bank is Bank 1 according to the manual or dealer schematics.

Knowing the exact location helps with diagnostics, replacement, and timing alignment during maintenance.

Summary

In short, most engines with two banks use a camshaft position sensor on each bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2). Some inline configurations or specific designs rely on a single CMP sensor mounted on the front or timing area. Always verify the precise CMP location for your exact engine variant by consulting the factory service manual or a dealership schematic to ensure accurate diagnosis and timing procedures.

Which sensor is bank 1 sensor A?

Bank one is whichever side cylinder #1 is on, sensor 1 is upstream. Sensor two is downstream.

Which side is the Bank 1 camshaft position sensor on?

Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine where the number one cylinder is located. To find the camshaft sensor for bank 1, first, identify the #1 cylinder, and then locate the sensor on the camshaft on that same side of the engine. For V-type engines, bank 1 is one side, and bank 2 is the other; for inline or four-cylinder engines, there is only one bank and the designation isn't relevant. 
This video explains how to locate engine bank sensors: 1mYOUCANICYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
How to identify bank 1

• Locate cylinder #1: The first step is to find the #1 cylinder in your engine. You can usually find this by looking for the cylinder closest to the front of the engine, or the cylinder number plate. 
• Determine the correct bank: The bank with cylinder #1 is always bank 1. 
• Identify the camshaft sensor(s): Once you've identified the bank, find the camshaft position sensor(s) on that bank. 
• Consider sensor types: If there are two sensors on bank 1, they are usually labeled as Sensor A (intake) and Sensor B (exhaust). 

This video explains how to locate engine bank sensors, including Sensor A and Sensor B: 59sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Nov 3, 2024
What to do if you have a code

• Use the code to pinpoint the issue: A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) like "P0340" will indicate which sensor needs to be replaced. 
• Check wiring: After finding the sensor, inspect its wiring and connector for damage or corrosion. 
• Test the sensor: You can test the sensor's output signal to see if it is faulty. 
• Replace the sensor: Replace the sensor if it is faulty to restore proper engine timing and function. 

Where is the camshaft position sensor A?

The "camshaft position sensor A" is typically located near the front of the engine on the intake side cylinder head, often mounted in the valve cover. To find its exact position, look for the camshaft sensor on the passenger side of the engine, near the intake manifold. Because there can be multiple sensors, "Sensor A" is often designated as the intake-side sensor.
 
This video shows the location of a camshaft position sensor on a Ford F-150: 59sBlueDriverYouTube · Sep 18, 2020
General location

• Intake side: "Sensor A" is typically the sensor located on the intake side of the engine. 
• Cylinder head: The sensor is mounted in the cylinder head, or in the valve cover. 
• Passenger side: On some engines, it is located on the passenger side, near the front of the engine. 

How to find it

1. Follow the wiring harness: Trace the electrical connector and wiring harness to find the sensor. 
2. Look for the "A" designation: In vehicles with multiple sensors, "Sensor A" is often the one closest to the intake manifold. 
3. Use a repair manual: Consult your vehicle's specific repair manual for the most accurate information on sensor placement. 

Other information

• Function: The camshaft position sensor tells the engine's computer the position of the camshaft, which is used to regulate fuel injection and ignition timing. 
• Multiple sensors: Vehicles with variable valve timing often have two or more camshaft position sensors. 
• Symptoms: A bad camshaft sensor can cause symptoms like a rough idle, hard starts, or a check engine light. 

What is a camshaft position sensor in circuit bank 1?

If they are swapped. Out they might need what's called a relearn procedure. Not all vehicles need this it's really going to vary.