Two camshaft position sensors. The 2013 Malibu's common Ecotec DOHC inline-four engines use one sensor on each camshaft.
Understanding the two-sensor setup
In the Malibu's 2013 model lineup, the two-cam setup is standard on the 2.5L and 2.4L engines. Each camshaft requires its own position sensor to provide accurate timing data to the engine control module, which coordinates ignition and fuel delivery.
- Intake camshaft position sensor: typically mounted on the front of the engine near the timing cover, reading the intake cam's position.
- Exhaust camshaft position sensor: usually located on the cylinder head to monitor the exhaust cam's position.
- Purpose: both sensors send timing information to the PCM/ECM to optimize spark timing and injector events.
Knowing the locations helps during maintenance or diagnostics. Always consult the service manual for your exact engine code to confirm sensor part numbers and wiring harness routing.
Common symptoms of CPS failure
Before listing the typical symptoms, keep in mind that a failing camshaft position sensor can trigger the check engine light and various drivability issues.
- Check Engine Light with DTCs related to cam timing (e.g., P0340, P0341, P0342, depending on the code set).
- Difficult starting, stalling, or misfiring, particularly at idle or low RPM.
- Intermittent loss of power or irregular idle.
- Poor fuel economy and rough acceleration when the sensor is failing.
If symptoms appear, inspect both CPS units and their wiring, and perform a wiring continuity check to rule out harness damage or corrosion.
Summary
For 2013 Chevy Malibu models equipped with the common 2.5L or 2.4L Ecotec inline-four engines, there are two camshaft position sensors—one on each camshaft. This dual-sensor arrangement helps the engine control module manage ignition timing and fuel injection, and is a standard configuration for those engines. If diagnosing a cam timing issue, verify both sensors and their wiring before replacing parts.
How can I tell which camshaft sensor is bad?
How To Check if a Camshaft Position Sensor is Bad?
- Step 1: Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes. A faulty CMP sensor will typically set one or more DTCs on vehicles model year 1996 or newer.
- Step 2: Perform a Visual Inspection. Next, you can move on to performing a visual inspection.
- Step 3: Test the Sensor Directly.
How much is a camshaft sensor for a Chevy Malibu?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Malibu Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $154 and $218. Labor costs are estimated between $49 and $72 while parts are priced between $105 and $146.
What are the most common problems with a 2013 Chevy Malibu?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Engine Minor. Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Brakes.
- In-car Electronics.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Engine Major.
- Climate System.
- Engine Electrical.
How many camshaft position sensors are in a Chevy Malibu?
two
Understanding Your Malibu's Camshaft Position Sensors
Most 4-cylinder Malibus from 2006-2015 (like the 2.2L, 2.4L, and 2.5L) have two of these sensors. One is for the intake camshaft (often called Sensor 'A') and the other is for the exhaust camshaft (Sensor 'B').