The Camshaft Position Sensor B is usually the second camshaft position sensor on engines with dual camshafts or Bank B. Its exact location varies by vehicle, model year, and engine design, so the specific spot for your car should be confirmed in the service manual or a repair guide for that model.
Camshaft Position Sensor B works with the engine control unit to monitor the angle of the camshaft and help with timing and fuel injection sequencing. Many modern engines use two sensors (A and B) to cover both camshafts or banks, or to provide redundancy. Because layouts differ across manufacturers, the Sensor B label can refer to different physical locations depending on the engine arrangement—so always check the factory diagrams for your exact vehicle.
Common locations by engine layout
Before you search, note that the exact placement depends on whether the engine is a DOHC inline, a V-series with multiple camshafts, or a modern timing-cover design. The following are typical baselines observed in many cars.
- Dual overhead cam (DOHC) inline engines — usually mounted on the front of the cylinder head or integrated into the timing cover, facing the camshaft gear to sense position.
- V6/V8 engines with two camshafts per bank — typically one sensor on each bank’s cylinder head, often near the back of the timing cover or at the end of the head where the camshaft sits.
- Engines using Bank 1/Bank 2 labeling — Sensor B is commonly the sensor on Bank 2’s camshaft or on the exhaust/intake camshaft of the second bank, depending on the design.
- Timing-chain engines — the sensor is frequently mounted directly on or just behind the timing cover, sometimes accessed from the top or side of the engine bay.
- Engines with a single CMP sensor — some designs do not have a Sensor B; in those cases, only one CMP sensor exists and is referred to as Sensor A.
If your vehicle lacks a Sensor B or the layout differs from these patterns, consult the official service information for your model to avoid misidentifying the part.
How to identify the exact Sensor B on your car
Use these steps to verify the precise location for your model and confirm you’ve identified Sensor B correctly.
- Check for two camshaft sensors in the engine bay; Sensor B is typically the one attached to the second camshaft or the Bank 2 side, as defined by your engine design.
- Look for labeling on the sensors or their connectors (A/B, 1/2, Bank 1/Bank 2) and compare with the vehicle’s wiring diagram.
- Consult the service manual or a reputable repair guide for your exact make, model, and year to confirm which sensor is designated B.
- Verify by tracing the wiring harness: Sensor B’s wiring will connect to the PCM/ECU via the bank or camshaft circuit corresponding to the second camshaft.
- When you locate it, handle with care: disconnect the battery before work, avoid damaging the connector, and respect timing components to prevent misalignment.
If you’re unsure, it’s wise to have a professional confirm the sensor’s placement and function, especially on engines with timing-related components.
Summary
The location of Camshaft Position Sensor B is not universal and depends on the engine design. It is commonly found near the camshaft(s) on the cylinder head or timing cover, often corresponding to Bank 2 or the second camshaft in dual-cam setups. Always verify with your vehicle’s service manual or a trusted repair guide for your exact model, as some cars may not have a Sensor B at all. Accurate identification helps ensure proper timing control and avoids incorrect sensor replacement.