Chevrolet Traverse Engine Camshaft Position Sensor: A 2009-2017 Replacement Guide
Fix your Traverse's stalling, rough idle, or starting problems by understanding this critical engine sensor.
- Your Traverse has four identical camshaft position sensors; two are easy to replace (front), and two are very difficult (rear).
- Symptoms include a check engine light (P0341, P0346, etc.), hard starting, stalling, and poor performance.
- For electronic sensors, using an OEM (ACDelco) or premium aftermarket brand (Bosch, Delphi) is strongly recommended to ensure reliability.
- Before replacing a sensor, check the wiring connector for damage or loose pins, as noted in a GM service bulletin.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
When a camshaft position sensor on your Traverse starts to fail, the engine's computer gets bad information. This can cause a range of problems from annoying to serious. You will almost always get a Check Engine Light on your dashboard.
- Check Engine Light: This is the most common symptom. The computer will store a trouble code, such as P0341, P0346, P0366, or P0391, which points to a specific sensor.
- Trouble Starting: The engine may crank for a long time before it starts, or it might not start at all.
- Stalling: The engine may stall unexpectedly, either while idling at a stoplight or while driving.
- Rough Performance: You might feel a rough idle, engine hesitation, misfires, or a general lack of power and poor acceleration.
- Poor Fuel Economy: When the engine timing is off due to a bad sensor, it burns fuel less efficiently, hurting your gas mileage.
Known Issue: Check Your Connections First
General Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB PI0090D) for 2009-2012 Traverse models experiencing intermittent hesitation. Before replacing a sensor, especially for Bank 1 (the firewall side), inspect the sensor's wiring harness connector for loose or backed-out terminals. Sometimes, a poor connection is the real problem, not the sensor itself.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
For a critical electronic part like a camshaft position sensor, quality matters. While many brands are available, they generally fall into three tiers for your Traverse.
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
These brands are either the original equipment manufacturer or are known for producing parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. For sensitive electronics, this is the safest choice to avoid future problems.
- ACDelco: As the original GM parts supplier, ACDelco is the benchmark for fit and function. Be aware they offer different lines; the 'GM Original Equipment' or 'Professional' lines are recommended over the budget 'Advantage' line for sensors.
- Bosch & Delphi: Both are highly respected OEM suppliers for many car manufacturers and are considered a top-quality alternative to ACDelco.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket
These brands are well-known in the aftermarket and can offer a good balance of price and quality. They are generally reliable for most repairs.
- NGK/NTK: Known for excellence in ignition and sensor technology.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): A long-standing aftermarket manufacturer that offers direct-fit replacement parts.
- Hitachi: An OEM for many Japanese brands, they also produce high-quality aftermarket parts.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
These brands focus on being the most affordable option. While tempting, they can be a gamble for electronic sensors. Forum discussions often show that mechanics and experienced owners avoid lower-cost sensors, as they may fail prematurely and require you to do the job twice.
- Dorman: While Dorman makes a wide variety of parts, their electronic components have a mixed reputation among professionals.
- Other value-focused brands like Spectra, Holstein, or store-brand sensors.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
Your Traverse has four camshaft position sensors. They are identical parts. If one fails and the others are original, it may be wise to replace them all at once, especially if you are paying for labor. The sensors on the firewall side (Bank 1) are very difficult to access, so replacing both while the mechanic is in there can save you significant labor costs down the road.
Replacement Cost for a 2009-2017 Traverse
The cost to replace a camshaft position sensor can vary greatly depending on which of the four sensors has failed.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Sensor (ACDelco) | $25 - $50 per sensor |
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $23 - $57 per sensor |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $400+ |
| Total Professional Replacement | $125 - $532+ |
Labor costs are higher for the sensors located at the back of the engine (Bank 1) due to the difficulty of access. Prices are estimates and do not include taxes or local shop fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft position sensors does my Traverse have?
Your 2009-2017 Traverse with the 3.6L V6 engine has four camshaft position sensors. There is one for each of the four camshafts: Intake Bank 1, Exhaust Bank 1, Intake Bank 2, and Exhaust Bank 2. All four sensors are typically the same part number.
Where are the sensors located?
Two sensors are on the front of the engine near the radiator (this is Bank 2), and two are on the back of the engine near the firewall (this is Bank 1). The front sensors are much easier to access than the rear ones.
Can I replace a camshaft position sensor myself?
A DIY replacement is possible, but the difficulty varies. Replacing the front two sensors (Bank 2) is fairly straightforward for someone with basic tools. However, 🎬 See how to swap the easily accessible front sensors. replacing the rear two sensors (Bank 1) is a difficult job that requires removing the engine mount and fuse box to gain access. This is best left to an experienced mechanic.
🎬 Watch this complete walkthrough for replacing all four sensors.What do the trouble codes mean?
The code tells you which sensor circuit is having a problem. Bank 1 is the cylinder head against the firewall, and Bank 2 is against the radiator. "A" usually refers to the intake camshaft, and "B" refers to the exhaust camshaft.
- P0341: Bank 1 Intake
- P0346: Bank 2 Intake
- P0366: Bank 1 Exhaust
- P0391: Bank 2 Exhaust
Are there any recalls for this part?
No, there are no specific safety recalls for the camshaft position sensors on the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12684186 12615371 213-4592
The 3.6L V6 engine in the 2009-2017 Traverse uses four identical 3-pin magnetic camshaft position 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.
- Chevrolet Traverse:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
- Known Issue: Check Your Connections First
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy Brands
- Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
- Replacement Cost for a 2009-2017 Traverse
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off