The camshaft position sensor on a 2017 Ford Escape is mounted on the front of the engine, attached to the timing cover at the cylinder head.
For owners and DIY mechanics, the sensor is used to monitor the position of the camshaft and is essential for proper fuel injection timing and ignition sequencing. The exact access can vary a bit by engine variant and trim, but the general location is consistent across the 2017 Escape lineup.
Engine variants and sensor location
1.5L EcoBoost
Below is the typical location and access approach for this engine variant. The camshaft position sensor is mounted to the front/top area of the engine, near the timing cover, and is usually visible after removing the engine cover and possibly the air intake duct.
- Front face of the cylinder head, adjacent to the timing chain cover.
- Electrical connector sits on the sensor body; commonly a two- or three-pin harness.
- Access generally requires removing the engine cover and, in some cases, the intake duct or splash shield.
Concluding: The CMP on the 1.5L EcoBoost sits at the front/top of the engine, near the timing cover, and is accessible from above with basic removal of covers.
2.0L EcoBoost
The 2.0L EcoBoost uses a similar layout to the 1.5L, with the camshaft position sensor located on the timing cover area of the cylinder head at the front of the engine. Access typically involves removing the upper engine coverings.
- Front face of the cylinder head near the timing chain cover.
- Connector is a small multi-pin plug on the sensor body.
- Often requires removing the engine cover and possibly the intake components for clearance.
Concluding: In the 2.0L EcoBoost, expect the CMP in the same general location as other EcoBoost engines—front/top of the engine near the timing cover.
2017 Escape Hybrid (2.5L Atkinson-cycle)
The hybrid version also places the camshaft position sensor on the cylinder head at the front/top of the engine, close to the timing chain cover. Access is similar to the non-hybrid EcoBoost variants, but you may encounter additional proximity to hybrid-specific components.
- Front/top surface of the cylinder head, near the timing chain cover.
- Connector is a compact multi-pin plug; may be shaded by nearby hoses or brackets.
- Removal of the engine cover and, in some trims, certain intake ducts may be required.
Concluding: The Hybrid CMP location mirrors the other engines—front/top of the engine near the timing cover, with standard access steps.
What to do if you can't locate it
If you’re troubleshooting a camshaft sensor fault, check the service manual for your exact engine variant to confirm the wiring diagram and sensor location. In most cases, the sensor is hidden beneath covers or ducts, so you’ll need to remove the engine cover and possibly air intake components to reach it safely.
Summary
The cam timing sensor (camshaft position sensor) on a 2017 Ford Escape is mounted to the front of the engine on the timing cover at the cylinder head. This placement is consistent across the 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost, and Hybrid (2.5L Atkinson-cycle) variants, with access typically involving removing the engine cover and, if needed, related intake components. If in doubt, consulting the factory service manual for your exact trim and powertrain will provide the precise steps and connector layout.