Camshaft Position Sensor

[kghaddon]

My daughters 2005 PT cruiser started "cutting out" today at @2,300 rpm. I took it to Advance Auto Parts where they read out a 240 code and sold me a camshaft position sensor. I replaced the part ( get an 8mm socket on your ratchet ). The check engine light is still on.

Here's my dilemna. When she brought it home, it was warmed up and I could not replicate the problem even though the light was on. After I replaced the part and let it cool, the problem resurfaced.

Any suggestions? I don't know a good mech here in the South Charlotte/ Waxhaw area.

[Hooligan]

Welcome to the Forum.

First question, did you disconnect the negative battery cable for about 5 - 10 minutes to reset the codes? That may reset the check engine light. Let us know if that helps.

[kghaddon]

Yep, I did. I am wondering if I got a defective part from Autozone. The odd thing is that the car ran fine when she gave it to me (it was warmed up)

[MX-5]

There is no code P0240. There is P0204 = fuel injector #4, or P0340 = Cam sensor circuit fault. The cam sensor circuit is from the computer's 8-volt reference to ground and the signal back into the PCM. There's more than just the sensor to test.

[kghaddon]

My mistake, code 340. We have been back to the mechanic twice after he sent us to the dealer who tried to sell us a timing belt and water pump replacement for $1170.

The second dealer is starting with the non-oem sensor ( Advanced auto parts) as the source of the problem and feels that this will take care of it.

[CREWZIN]

Originally Posted by kghaddon

The second dealer is starting with the non-oem sensor ( Advanced auto parts) as the source of the problem and feels that this will take care of it.

MX-5 is right when saying there's more to it than just throwing a part at the problem but I have heard (from an owner on this forum) who replaced the store bought sensor with an OEM part and it did clear the problem.