A Guide to the Engine Camshaft Position Sensor for the 2009-2013 GMC Canyon
Solve stalling, rough idling, and no-start problems by understanding and choosing the right camshaft sensor for your truck.
- A faulty camshaft sensor commonly causes a P0340 code, stalling, and no-start issues.
- Before replacing the sensor, check if your truck is affected by GM recall #14750 for the Chassis Electronic Control Module, which causes similar symptoms.
- For best results, use an OEM or OEM-equivalent brand like ACDelco or Delphi for this critical sensor.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job for most owners, requiring only basic tools and less than an hour.
Is Your GMC Canyon Stalling or Hard to Start?
If your 2009-2013 GMC Canyon is suddenly hard to start, stalling unexpectedly, or running rough, a failing engine camshaft position sensor could be the culprit. This sensor is critical for engine timing, and when it fails, it can cause a range of noticeable problems. Because the symptoms can be alarming, it's important to diagnose the issue correctly. This article will help you understand the symptoms, choose the right replacement part, and know what to expect during the repair.
Check for Recalls First
Before replacing parts, be aware of GM Recall #14750. This recall addresses a faulty Chassis Electronic Control Module in 2009-2012 GMC Canyon models. A bad module can cause the engine to be hard to start, not start, or stall—symptoms that are identical to a failed camshaft position sensor. A GMC dealer can check if your truck is affected and perform the repair.
Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
When a camshaft position sensor fails, the engine's computer gets bad information, leading to poor performance. Here are the most common signs:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. A code scanner will usually show code P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction) or a related code between P0340 and P0349. 🎬 Watch: How these codes were diagnosed and solved on a Colorado.
- Engine Won't Start: The engine may crank over but refuse to start because the computer doesn't know when to send fuel and spark.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly while you are driving or idling at a stoplight, which can be dangerous.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The truck may shake or vibrate when stopped due to incorrect engine timing causing misfires.
- Poor Acceleration: You may notice the truck feels sluggish, hesitates, or lacks power when you press the gas pedal.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to electronic sensors, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. For a critical part like the camshaft position sensor, quality and reliability are key. Owner and mechanic experiences suggest sticking with brands known for their electronic components.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1: OEM & OEM-Equivalent Brands (ACDelco, Delphi): ACDelco is the original GM parts brand, offering the highest likelihood of compatibility and long life. Delphi is a well-respected brand that often manufactures original parts for GM, making it an excellent alternative. For a critical sensor, choosing one of these brands is highly recommended to avoid future issues.
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands (NGK, Hitachi, Standard Ignition): Brands like NGK (often sold as NTK for sensors) and Hitachi have a strong reputation for producing quality electronic components. Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition) is another long-standing brand with a solid track record. These are generally reliable choices if an OEM-equivalent part is not available.
- Tier 3: Value Brands (Dorman, Walker, and others): While brands like Dorman are popular, they have a mixed reputation for electronic sensors, with some forum users reporting premature failures. These brands can be a budget-friendly option, but may carry a higher risk of needing to be replaced again sooner than a Tier 1 part.
Inspect the Wiring Connector
Sometimes the sensor itself is fine, but the electrical connector or wiring is damaged. Before installing a new sensor, check the wiring harness pigtail for brittle plastic, corrosion, or loose pins. A bad connection will cause the same symptoms as a bad sensor.
Aftermarket Camshaft Position Sensor Cost (2009-2013 GMC Canyon)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $27.24 - $80.15 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $77 - $180 |
Cost estimates are for a single sensor and do not include taxes or diagnostic fees. Your costs may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft position sensors does my GMC Canyon have?
The 2.9L 4-cylinder and 3.7L 5-cylinder engines have two sensors: one for intake and one for exhaust. 🎬 Watch: This video shows the sensor locations on the 3.7L engine. The 5.3L V8 engine has only one sensor. It is common to replace both sensors at the same time on the 4- and 5-cylinder models if one fails, especially if they are original to the vehicle.
Can I drive with a bad camshaft position sensor?
It is not recommended. While the truck may still run, the risk of the engine stalling while driving is a serious safety hazard. It's best to get the vehicle repaired as soon as possible.
Is replacing the sensor a difficult job?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly repair for most owners. The sensor is typically held in by a single 10mm bolt and is located in an accessible spot on the engine. The entire job can often be done in less than 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
🎬 See this step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the sensor yourself.Do I need to reset the computer after replacing the sensor?
After replacing the sensor, the Check Engine Light may turn off on its own after a few drive cycles. However, it is best to use an OBD-II scanner to clear the diagnostic trouble codes from the computer's memory.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12597253 12588992 12615626
The sensor is a 3-pin hall-effect sensor that reads the rotation of the camshaft. The 4-cylinder and 5-cylinder engines use two distinct sensors for intake and exhaust, while the V8 uses one.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- GMC Canyon:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your GMC Canyon Stalling or Hard to Start?
- Check for Recalls First
- Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Inspect the Wiring Connector
- Aftermarket Camshaft Position Sensor Cost (2009-2013 GMC Canyon)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off