Ford Taurus Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide (2007-2012)
Fixing stalling, rough idle, and Check Engine Lights on your Ford Taurus often points to a failing camshaft position sensor.
- Your 2007-2012 Taurus has four camshaft sensors; an OBD-II scan is essential to identify which one has failed.
- Bank 1 sensors (near the firewall) are much harder to replace than Bank 2 sensors (near the radiator).
- For reliability, choose an OEM (Motorcraft) or a premium aftermarket brand like Delphi, Denso, or Standard Ignition.
- Symptoms like stalling or a no-start can be serious; address a failing sensor promptly to avoid being stranded.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Sensor
When a camshaft position sensor starts to fail on your Taurus, the engine's computer gets bad information. This can cause a range of noticeable problems. You should get your vehicle scanned for trouble codes if you experience any of these issues, as codes like P0340, P0344, P0345, and P0349 often point directly to a faulty camshaft sensor.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step repair for P0340 and P0344 codesChoosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your Taurus
When it comes to electronic sensors, quality matters. While a cheaper part is tempting, a poor-quality sensor can fail quickly, leaving you with the same problem. For the 2007-2012 Taurus, it's best to stick with trusted brands for a lasting repair.
Brand Quality Tiers
| Tier | Brands | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / Premium Aftermarket | Motorcraft, Delphi, Denso, NGK, Hitachi | Motorcraft is the original Ford part and the safest bet for fit and longevity. Brands like Delphi, Denso, and Hitachi are often original suppliers to car manufacturers and provide equivalent quality. This is the recommended choice for a trouble-free repair. |
| Quality Aftermarket | Standard Ignition (SMP), Dorman, Beck Arnley | These brands offer a good balance of price and performance. They are well-known in the industry and are a solid choice if an OEM part isn't in the budget. Some forum users have noted that for certain Ford applications, Dorman sensors may not last as long as Motorcraft. |
| Economy / Budget | URO Parts, Walker Products, and other store brands | These are the most affordable options and can get your car back on the road. However, their lifespan and performance can be inconsistent. Consider these for less critical applications or if you're on a tight budget, but be aware you may be replacing them again sooner. |
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no specific recalls for the camshaft position sensor on the 2007-2012 Ford Taurus. However, older Ford models with different engines did have recalls for sensor issues, highlighting Ford's history with this component. The most common issues reported by owners are related to intermittent stalling, hard starting, and engine misfires, which are often traced back to a faulty sensor. In some cases, electrical interference from other components, like a failing alternator, can cause camshaft sensor codes even when the sensor itself is good.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many camshaft sensors does my 2007-2012 Taurus have?
The standard 3.5L V6 engine has four camshaft position sensors. There is one intake sensor and one exhaust sensor for each cylinder bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2).
What's the difference between Bank 1 and Bank 2?
On the transversely mounted 3.5L V6 in the Taurus, Bank 1 is the cylinder head located against the firewall (rear of the engine bay), and Bank 2 is against the radiator (front). This is important because the sensors on Bank 1 are significantly harder to access.
What do Sensor 'A' and 'B' mean in the trouble codes?
In Ford trouble codes like P0340 or P0345, sensor 'A' refers to the intake camshaft position sensor. Sensor 'B' would refer to the exhaust sensor. So, a code P0340 refers to the Bank 1 Intake Camshaft Position Sensor circuit.
Can I replace just one failed sensor?
Yes, you can replace only the sensor that has failed. However, if the vehicle has high mileage and the sensors are original, they have all been exposed to the same heat and conditions. It's often good practice to replace them in pairs (both intake or both exhaust) or even all four at once to prevent future failures.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
The difficulty varies greatly depending on which sensor has failed. The two sensors on Bank 2 (near the radiator) are relatively easy to access and replace. 🎬 See how to replace Bank 2 intake and exhaust sensors The two sensors on Bank 1 (near the firewall) are much more difficult to reach and may require removing other components to gain access.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 7T4Z-6B288-A BL3Z-6B288-A DY1124
The 3.5L V6 engine in the 2007-2012 Taurus uses four Hall-effect type camshaft position sensors. There are two unique part numbers: one for the two intake sensors and another for the two exhaust sensors.
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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.
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