A Practical Guide to the 2011-2024 Audi A4 Engine Camshaft Position Sensor
Experiencing rough idling or starting issues? Your camshaft position sensor might be the problem.
- A failing camshaft sensor in your A4 will typically cause a check engine light, rough running, and starting problems.
- This is an extremely easy DIY repair, located at the top-front of the engine and held by one T30 bolt.
- For best results on a sensitive German engine, choose a quality aftermarket brand like Hella, Delphi, or NGK.
- Most 2.0T engines in this year range use two sensors; it's wise to replace them in pairs if they are old.
Is Your Audi A4 Showing Signs of a Bad Camshaft Sensor?
When a camshaft position sensor starts to fail, the symptoms are often hard to ignore. Because this sensor's job is so important for engine timing, a bad signal can cause a variety of problems. You are the first line of defense in noticing that something is wrong with your A4.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. A fault code, such as P0340 or P0341, will be stored 🎬 Watch: Understanding fault codes and how these sensors work. in the car's computer.
- Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may run rough, misfire, or stall unexpectedly.
- Hard Starting or No Start: The car may take longer than usual to start, or it might not start at all.
- Reduced Engine Power: You might notice your car feels sluggish and doesn't accelerate as it should.
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the engine timing is off, it won't run efficiently, leading to more trips to the gas station.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
As of early 2026, there are no widespread recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Audi or the NHTSA specifically for camshaft position sensor failure on the 2011-2024 Audi A4. Failures are typically treated as individual component wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your A4
When it's time to replace the sensor, you have a choice between Original Equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. For a critical electronic part like this, quality matters. However, many aftermarket brands produce high-quality sensors that meet or exceed OEM specifications, offering significant savings.
Brand Quality Tiers
Not all aftermarket brands are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available to help you choose.
- Tier 1: OEM-Quality & Premium Aftermarket: These brands are often original equipment suppliers to automakers or are known for their rigorous testing and quality. They are a reliable choice for your Audi. Brands include Hella, Delphi, NGK/NTK, and Hitachi. Bosch, while not on the provided list, is also a well-regarded OEM supplier for these parts.
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket: These brands offer a great balance of quality and value. They are trusted in the industry and subject their parts to thorough testing. This tier includes Standard Ignition, Bremi, and Walker Products.
- Tier 3: Economy Options: Brands like Dorman, Vemo, Facet, and others offer a budget-friendly solution. While they can be a good value, their long-term reliability can sometimes be a concern compared to higher-tier brands. Some owners have reported issues with lower-cost sensors failing prematurely on sensitive European vehicles.
A Mechanic's Advice
For German vehicles like your A4, it's often wise to invest in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 brand. The engine's computer is very sensitive to the sensor's signal quality. A higher-quality sensor ensures accurate readings, stable performance, and prevents you from having to do the job twice.
How Much Should This Repair Cost?
The cost can vary depending on whether you do it yourself or have a shop perform the work. The replacement itself is very simple for a DIYer.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $22.69 - $74.03 |
| New OEM Sensor | $99 - $175 |
| Shop Labor | $140 - $236 |
| Total Shop Visit (Aftermarket Part) | $163 - $310 |
| Total Shop Visit (OEM Part) | $260 - $411 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft sensors does my 2011-2024 Audi A4 have?
Most 2011-2024 Audi A4 models with the common 2.0L 4-cylinder engine have two camshaft position sensors. One is for the intake camshaft and one is for the exhaust camshaft. V6 models would have four sensors. It's a good practice to replace them in pairs if one fails, especially if they are original and have high mileage.
Where is the camshaft position sensor located?
On the popular 2.0T engine found in the B8 and B9 generation A4, the sensors are very easy to access. They are located on the front of the cylinder head, near the top of the engine. 🎬 See this quick walkthrough for locating and replacing the sensor. One is typically near the oil cap. Each is held in place by a single T30 Torx bolt.
Is this a difficult repair to do myself?
No, this is one of the easiest repairs you can do on your Audi A4. It requires basic tools (a T30 Torx driver) and takes only a few minutes. 🎬 Watch: A step-by-step guide to this simple DIY repair. You simply disconnect the electrical connector, remove one bolt, pull the old sensor out, and install the new one. Be sure to apply a little clean engine oil to the new sensor's O-ring before installation.
What is the most common mistake when ordering this part?
The most common mistake is confusing the camshaft position sensor with the crankshaft position sensor. They perform different functions and are not interchangeable. Always verify the fault code and part description. Another potential issue is ordering the wrong sensor for your specific engine, as there can be slight variations. Always use your vehicle's year, make, and model to confirm fitment.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06E905163 06C907601K 07K907601A 06M907601G
This is a 3-pin Hall effect sensor. The 2.0T engine typically uses two of these sensors, one for the intake camshaft and one for the exhaust camshaft.
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.
- Audi A4:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A4 Showing Signs of a Bad Camshaft Sensor?
- Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
- Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your A4
- Brand Quality Tiers
- A Mechanic's Advice
- How Much Should This Repair Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions
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