Buick Enclave (2008-2024) Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide
Understanding why your Enclave is running rough and how to choose the right camshaft position sensor.
- Your Enclave has four identical camshaft position sensors; identify the correct failed sensor using the OBD2 code before ordering.
- Codes P0016-P0019 can indicate a serious timing chain issue, which is common on these engines and must be ruled out before replacing sensors.
- For reliability, stick to premium aftermarket brands like ACDelco, Delphi, or Bosch, as cheap sensors have a higher failure rate.
- Some sensors are easy to access (front of engine), while others (rear of engine) are difficult and may significantly increase labor time and cost.
Is Your Enclave Stalling or Running Poorly? It Could Be a Camshaft Sensor.
A failing camshaft position sensor can cause a range of frustrating problems for your Buick Enclave. Since the engine's computer relies on the sensor's signal to time fuel and spark, a bad sensor can make your vehicle hard to start, cause it to stall unexpectedly, or run rough. You might also notice a significant drop in power and worse gas mileage. Eventually, a completely failed sensor can prevent the engine from starting at all.
A Note on Timing Chains
The 3.6L V6 engine, especially in earlier 2008-2012 Enclave models, is known for issues with stretched timing chains. Often, the diagnostic trouble codes for a camshaft sensor (like P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019) are the first sign of this more serious mechanical problem. If you have these codes, especially on a higher-mileage Enclave, it is critical to have the timing system inspected by a professional before simply replacing the sensors. 🎬 Learn more about P0017 codes and camshaft correlation issues A new sensor will not fix a stretched timing chain.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to critical engine sensors, quality matters. While a lower-cost part is tempting, a premature failure means you'll be doing the job all over again. Here’s a breakdown of available brands.
- Premium Aftermarket (OEM Quality): Brands like ACDelco (the original GM part), Delphi, and Bosch are highly recommended. Delphi was a major parts supplier for GM, and their parts are often considered OEM-equivalent. Bosch is another trusted name known for high-quality electronics. These brands offer the best reliability and are manufactured to original specifications.
- Quality Aftermarket: Brands such as Standard Motor Products (SMP), NGK/NTK, and Hitachi are solid choices. They have a strong reputation for producing reliable sensors that meet or exceed OE standards. Walker Products also has a long history in engine management parts and is a dependable option.
- Standard/Budget Aftermarket: Brands like Dorman, Global Parts, Skyward, and True Tech fall into this category. Dorman sometimes offers redesigned parts, but quality on electronic sensors can be inconsistent according to forum discussions. While these parts are more affordable, they may have a higher risk of early failure compared to premium brands. For a critical sensor, it's often worth spending a bit more for a trusted name.
Common Ordering Mistake
Your Enclave's 3.6L V6 has four separate camshaft position sensors. The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will tell you which one has failed (e.g., "Bank 1 Intake," "Bank 2 Exhaust"). Make sure you identify the correct location and purchase the right sensor. Since they are identical parts, if one fails at high mileage, it's a good practice to replace them in pairs (both intake or both exhaust) or all four at once to avoid future repairs.
Cost to Replace a Buick Enclave Camshaft Position Sensor
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $23.10 - $57.49 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost (DIY) 🎬 See this step-by-step replacement walkthrough for the Enclave | $23.10 - $57.49 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Installed) | $125 - $310 |
Note: Labor costs can vary significantly based on your location and which of the four sensors needs replacement. Some are much harder to access than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the camshaft position sensors located on my Enclave?
The 3.6L V6 engine has two cylinder banks. Bank 1 is the rear bank, closer to the firewall, and Bank 2 is the front bank, closer to the radiator. 🎬 Watch: Identify the exact location of all four sensors Each bank has an intake and an exhaust sensor. The Bank 2 (front) sensors are relatively easy to access, while the Bank 1 (rear) sensors are much more difficult and may require removing other components to reach.
Can I replace just one sensor?
Yes, you can replace only the failed sensor. However, these sensors are exposed to the same heat and conditions. If one has failed due to age, the others may not be far behind. To save on future labor, especially if paying a mechanic, it's wise to replace them in pairs (e.g., both intake sensors) or all four at once.
Do I need to do a 'relearn' procedure after replacement?
Generally, a specific relearn procedure is not required for the camshaft position sensor itself. However, after installation, you must clear the diagnostic trouble codes from the engine computer using an OBD2 scanner. In some cases, a crank/cam correlation relearn might be beneficial, but usually just clearing the codes is sufficient.
My sensor broke during removal. How do I get the rest out?
This is a common problem, as the plastic can become brittle with age. If the sensor breaks, you may be able to carefully pry the remaining piece out with a small screwdriver or pick. Be very gentle to avoid dropping plastic pieces into the engine. If you cannot retrieve the broken part, you may need professional assistance to prevent engine damage.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12615371
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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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