A Guide to the Engine Camshaft Position Sensor for the 2007-2010 Saturn Sky
Fix stalling, rough idle, and check engine lights by understanding and choosing the right camshaft position sensor for your Sky.
- Your Saturn Sky has two identical and interchangeable camshaft position sensors, one for intake and one for exhaust.
- Symptoms of failure include a check engine light (P0340, P0365), stalling, hard starting, and poor performance.
- Replacement is very easy and accessible for DIYers, located on top of the engine and held by one bolt.
- For best results, use high-quality brands like ACDelco (OEM) or Delphi, as cheap sensors can be unreliable.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
When a camshaft position sensor starts to fail on your Saturn Sky, your car will let you know. The signs can range from annoying to leaving you stranded. Because the sensor's data is so important for engine timing, a bad signal can cause a lot of problems.
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first and most common sign. The computer will detect a problem with the sensor's signal and store a trouble code, usually P0340, P0341, P0365, or P0366.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall unexpectedly, either while driving or at idle, because the computer loses track of the engine's timing.
- Hard Starting or No Start: A bad sensor can make it difficult for the engine to start, or prevent it from starting at all. The engine may crank but won't fire up because the ECM can't time the spark and fuel correctly.
- Rough Idling: Your Sky might vibrate or run poorly when stopped at a light.
- Poor Acceleration and Power Loss: You'll notice the car feels sluggish and doesn't have the power it used to. This is due to incorrect ignition and fuel timing.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: When the engine isn't running efficiently, it burns more fuel. A bad sensor can lead to a noticeable drop in your gas mileage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to electronic sensors for your Sky, quality matters. While it can be tempting to buy the cheapest part, a low-quality sensor can fail quickly or provide inaccurate readings, leading to the same problems you were trying to fix. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available.
Brand Quality Tiers
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
- ACDelco: This is the original GM parts brand. Choosing an ACDelco sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from the Saturn dealer. It is the recommended replacement part for your vehicle's original component and is manufactured to GM OE specifications for fit, form, and function.
- Delphi: Delphi was a major original equipment supplier for GM. Their parts are widely considered to be of the same quality as the factory originals and are a reliable choice.
- NGK/NTK: While best known for spark plugs, NGK's sensor line (NTK) is highly respected and often supplies original parts to many automakers.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket
- Hitachi: A well-regarded manufacturer that often produces OEM parts for various car brands. Their sensors are known for quality and reliability.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): A long-standing aftermarket company that offers a wide range of quality levels. Their higher-end lines are generally dependable.
- Walker Products: An established brand in fuel and engine management parts, offering a solid balance of price and quality.
Tier 3: Budget & Economy Brands
- Dorman: Dorman offers direct replacement parts that are widely available and affordable. However, owner reviews are often mixed; some parts work perfectly, while others may have fitment or longevity issues.
- URO Parts, Prenco, True Tech, etc.: These brands fall into the economy category. They offer the lowest price but can be a gamble on quality and lifespan. They might be a temporary fix but are not recommended for long-term reliability.
Cost to Replace Saturn Sky Camshaft Position Sensor
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $24 - $68 |
| Shop Labor | $37 - $54 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $61 - $122 (plus tax) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many camshaft position sensors does my Saturn Sky have?
Your Saturn Sky has two camshaft position sensors. One is for the intake camshaft and one is for the exhaust camshaft. This applies to both the 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo engines used from 2007-2010.
Can I replace the camshaft position sensor myself?
Yes, this is a very easy DIY job for most owners. The sensors are located on the top of the engine on the valve cover, making them easily accessible. Each sensor is held in by a single 10mm bolt. The job requires only basic tools and can typically be completed in under 30 minutes.
🎬 See how to change the sensors and actuators yourself.Are the intake and exhaust sensors the same part?
Yes, for the 2007-2010 Saturn Sky, the intake and exhaust camshaft position sensors are the same part number and are interchangeable. You can buy two of the same sensor to replace both at the same time.
What's the difference between a camshaft sensor and a camshaft actuator solenoid?
This is a common point of confusion. The sensor (the part this article is about) reads the camshaft's position and sends that info to the computer. The actuator solenoid (also called a VVT solenoid) is a different part that the computer controls to physically change the camshaft's timing. While both are located next to each other on top of the engine and can cause similar symptoms, they are separate parts. The actuator solenoids are also known to be a common failure point on these engines.
🎬 Learn how to fix solenoid actuator codes P0010 and P0011.Are there any recalls for the camshaft position sensor on the Saturn Sky?
No, there are no specific recalls for the camshaft position sensors on the 2007-2010 Saturn Sky. Searches of the NHTSA database did not show any recalls for this component.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12674704 12577245
Magnetic sensor with a 3-pin connector. Both intake and exhaust sensors are the same part.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Saturn Sky: