7 Best Camshaft Position Sensors for Chevy Colorado: Top Picks & Reviews
Is your Chevy Colorado feeling a bit off? Perhaps you’ve noticed the check engine light glowing, or maybe your truck is struggling to start, idling roughly, or even stalling out unexpectedly. These could all be classic signs pointing to an issue with your camshaft position sensor Chevy Colorado. This vital little component plays a big role in your engine’s performance, telling your truck’s computer exactly where the camshaft is, which helps coordinate spark timing and fuel injection. When it goes bad, your truck’s engine control module (ECM) gets confused, leading to a host of frustrating problems.
Replacing a faulty camshaft position sensor can bring your Chevy Colorado back to life, restoring its smooth operation and reliability. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? Don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 7 picks for the camshaft position sensor Chevy Colorado, focusing on reliability, compatibility, and value. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your truck!
1. ZBN 12584079 213-1557 PC403 Camshaft Position Sensor Fit…
The ZBN 12584079 is a go-to choice if you’re looking for a reliable, direct replacement camshaft position sensor. Designed to meet or even exceed OEM standards, this sensor promises stable performance and durability, ensuring your Chevy Colorado’s engine timing is spot-on. What really makes this one stand out is its solid one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. It’s built with high-grade technology to eliminate those pesky check engine light codes and improve your truck’s overall driveability.
-
Key Features:
- One-year quality warranty for peace of mind.
- Features stable performance, durable, and long-lasting design.
- Tested before shipment to ensure reliability.
- Meets OEM standards and specifications.
- Utilizes high-grade technology for accurate readings.
- Designed for direct replacement, no calibration or modification needed.
- Compatible with Chevy Colorado L4 2.8L (2004-2006) and L5 3.5L (2004-2006).
-
Pros:
- Excellent warranty coverage.
- Easy plug-and-play installation.
- Helps clear error codes and restore engine performance.
- Made from quality materials for durability.
-
Cons:
- Compatibility is limited to specific Colorado years/engine types.
-
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the ease of installation and the immediate resolution of engine issues like rough idling and stalling after replacing with this sensor. Many appreciate the direct fit and the absence of the dreaded check engine light, noting its reliability for older Colorado models.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. Camshaft Position Sensor 12584079 Compatible with 2004 2005…
This camshaft position sensor, bearing the common 12584079 OEM part number, is engineered to be a perfect fit for your Chevy Colorado, particularly models from 2004 to 2006. It’s a direct replacement part, which means installation is a breeze – truly plug-and-play without any need for complex adjustments. What sets this sensor apart is its wide compatibility across various GM vehicles, alongside a generous 18-month warranty, offering extended protection against defects. It’s designed to restore your vehicle’s proper engine function, tackling issues like intermittent stalling and hard starts.
-
Key Features:
- Extensive vehicle fitment, including Chevy Colorado (2004-2006) and other GM models.
- Direct replacement design for easy, plug-in installation.
- Helps resolve issues like intermittent stalling, hard starts, and engine misfires.
- Comes with an 18-month worry-free warranty.
- Multiple OEM part numbers for cross-referencing.
-
Pros:
- Extended warranty period.
- Broad compatibility with many vehicle models.
- Straightforward installation process.
- Effectively addresses common sensor failure symptoms.
-
Cons:
- Details on material specifics aren’t as prominent as some other options.
-
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this sensor for its accurate fit and seamless integration into their vehicles. The peace of mind offered by the 18-month warranty is a big plus, and many report immediate improvements in engine stability and responsiveness after installation. It’s often seen as a cost-effective solution for common sensor-related problems.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. MOTISEN PC658 12584516 213-1649 Camshaft Position Sensor…
The MOTISEN PC658 offers a premium-quality solution for your Chevy Colorado’s camshaft position sensor needs, specifically for models from 2004 to 2007. This sensor is rigorously tested and calibrated during manufacturing to ensure reliability, durability, and top-tier performance. Its stand-out feature is the assurance of professional-grade quality and a commitment to customer service, backed by a one-year warranty. It’s designed to directly replace your old sensor, eliminating those frustrating failure light codes without requiring any special tools or complicated procedures.
-
Key Features:
- Professional, premium, high-quality, and brand new vehicle sensor product.
- All units tested and calibrated for reliability and performance.
- Features stable performance, durability, and longevity.
- Meets OEM standards and specifications.
- Easy to install without special tools.
- One-year warranty with strong customer support.
- Compatible with Chevy Colorado (2004-2007).
-
Pros:
- Rigorous testing and calibration ensure high quality.
- Direct replacement design for hassle-free installation.
- Excellent customer service and warranty support.
- Effectively eliminates check engine lights related to the sensor.
-
Cons:
- Fitment is specific to certain years; always double-check.
-
User Impressions: Reviewers often commend the MOTISEN sensor for its robust build and the noticeable improvement in engine smoothness post-installation. The ease of DIY installation is frequently highlighted, with many appreciating the quick resolution of their vehicle’s symptoms and the confidence provided by the quality assurance.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. YIEXOVA Camshaft Position Sensor 12584079 Compatible with…
The YIEXOVA Camshaft Position Sensor, sharing the widely recognized 12584079 OEM part number, is designed as a direct, no-fuss replacement for a broad range of GM vehicles, including the Chevy Colorado (2004-2006). This sensor excels in its fundamental role: precisely determining the camshaft’s rotating position to ensure optimal spark timing and fuel injection synchronization. Its key differentiator is the clear explanation of its function and the issues it resolves (stalling, hard starting, CEL, misfires), paired with an impressive 18-month warranty, providing users with confidence and a clear understanding of its value.
-
Key Features:
- Wide vehicle compatibility, including Chevy Colorado (2004-2006).
- Direct replacement design for simple plug-in installation.
- Detailed explanation of its function and symptoms of failure.
- 18-month worry-free warranty for customer satisfaction.
- Comprehensive list of compatible OEM part numbers.
-
Pros:
- Longer warranty period offers extended peace of mind.
- Simple and quick installation process.
- Effectively resolves common engine performance issues.
- Good value for a direct OEM-equivalent replacement.
-
Cons:
- As with similar products, double-check fitment for your specific model year.
-
User Impressions: Many users find this sensor to be an excellent, budget-friendly alternative to OEM parts, often noting that it performs just as well. The direct fit and the clear improvement in engine behavior, such as a steady idle and no more check engine lights, are commonly praised. The solid warranty is also a frequently mentioned positive.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. ZBN 12638266 Camshaft Position Sensor Fit for Chevy Malibu…
While the title might suggest a focus on the Malibu, this ZBN camshaft position sensor is also a precise fit for newer Chevy Colorado models (2.5L, 2015-2017), making it a crucial consideration for owners of these specific years. What makes this sensor stand out is its commitment to improving overall engine performance and eliminating persistent failure light codes. It’s a direct replacement part, meaning you won’t need any special tools or complex programming to get your truck running smoothly again. Plus, it comes with a one-year quality warranty, underscoring the brand’s confidence in its product.
-
Key Features:
- One-year quality warranty for customer assurance.
- Stable performance, durable, and long-lasting product.
- Tested before shipment to ensure reliability.
- Meets OEM standards and specifications.
- Designed for direct replacement, requiring no calibration or modification.
- Compatible with Chevy Colorado 2.5L (2015-2017).
-
Pros:
- Reliable performance for specified newer Colorado models.
- Easy, tool-free installation.
- Helps resolve check engine light issues and improve engine efficiency.
- Good warranty period.
-
Cons:
- Limited compatibility to newer Colorado models (2015-2017 2.5L) compared to earlier sensors.
-
User Impressions: Owners of compatible Colorado models report that this sensor effectively addresses engine misfires and inconsistent acceleration, leading to a noticeable improvement in drivability. Its straightforward installation is often highlighted as a major benefit, allowing many to perform the replacement themselves without professional help.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. ZBN 12597253 SU13341 2134223 917-748 PC804 5S11888 Camshaft…
This ZBN camshaft position sensor targets a different range of Chevy Colorado models (L4 2.9L and L5 3.7L from 2008-2012), providing a tailored solution for these specific trucks. Its core strength lies in being a direct replacement designed to boost engine performance and finally get rid of those stubborn diagnostic trouble codes. Just like other ZBN products, it’s rigorously tested, crafted from quality materials, and built to meet OEM standards, ensuring long-lasting and stable operation. The one-year warranty provides an added layer of confidence.
-
Key Features:
- Particularly compatible with Chevy Colorado L4 2.9L (2008-2012) and L5 3.7L (2008-2012).
- One-year quality warranty for customer satisfaction.
- Stable, durable, and long-lasting performance.
- Tested before shipment and made of quality material.
- Meets OEM standards; no calibration or modification needed for installation.
- Helps improve performance and eliminate failure light codes.
-
Pros:
- Specific compatibility for a crucial range of Colorado years.
- Guaranteed direct fit and easy installation.
- Aids in clearing error codes and improving engine function.
- Reliable quality with a decent warranty.
-
Cons:
- Only fits specific model years and engine types within the Colorado lineup.
-
User Impressions: For owners of the specified 2008-2012 Colorado models, this sensor is often cited as a perfect fit that immediately resolves rough idle and starting issues. The convenience of a direct replacement, coupled with the improved engine smoothness, makes it a popular choice among DIYers and mechanics alike.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. Camshaft Position Sensor 12584079 Compatible with Chevy…
Rounding out our list, this camshaft position sensor with the 12584079 part number offers universal fitment across various GM models, including the Chevy Colorado (2004-2006 for L4 2.8L & L5 3.5L). What truly makes this sensor stand out is its emphasis on genuine replacement quality and reliable performance, manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications. It’s crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use and provide long-lasting, optimal functionality. This is a solid, no-nonsense choice for dependable engine timing.
-
Key Features:
- Universal fitment for various Buick, Saturn, Hummer, Pontiac, GMC, and Chevy Colorado models (2004-2006 L4 2.8L & L5 3.5L).
- Genuine replacement, meeting or exceeding OEM specifications.
- Reliable performance for optimal functionality and durability.
- Easy installation as a direct replacement with no modifications needed.
- Constructed with high-quality materials for longevity.
-
Pros:
- Broad compatibility makes it versatile.
- Ensures reliable and accurate engine data.
- Straightforward installation without complexities.
- Durable construction promising long service life.
-
Cons:
- Specific warranty details aren’t as explicitly stated as some other products.
-
User Impressions: Users report that this sensor delivers consistent performance and resolves common engine issues effectively. Its “genuine replacement” feel and the smooth installation process are often highlighted. Many appreciate its robust build, which gives them confidence in its long-term reliability for their Chevy Colorado.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Finding the right camshaft position sensor Chevy Colorado doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re dealing with a check engine light, rough idling, or hard starts, a quality replacement sensor can make all the difference. Always remember to double-check the compatibility with your specific Chevy Colorado model and year, paying attention to the engine size, before making your purchase. With one of these top picks, you’ll be back on the road with a smoothly running truck in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does a camshaft position sensor do in my Chevy Colorado?
A1: The camshaft position sensor is a crucial component that monitors the rotational speed and position of your engine’s camshaft. It sends this data to the engine control module (ECM), which then uses this information to precisely control spark timing and fuel injection for optimal engine performance and efficiency.
Q2: What are the common symptoms of a bad camshaft position sensor in a Chevy Colorado?
A2: Common symptoms include the illumination of the check engine light (often with specific diagnostic trouble codes like P0340 or P0341), difficulty starting the vehicle, intermittent stalling, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration.
Q3: Can I replace the camshaft position sensor myself on my Chevy Colorado?
A3: For many Chevy Colorado models, replacing the camshaft position sensor is a relatively straightforward DIY task, often requiring basic tools. It’s usually located on the cylinder head or timing cover. However, always refer to your specific vehicle’s service manual for exact location and procedures. Disconnecting the battery and ensuring the engine is cool are important safety steps.
Q4: How long do camshaft position sensors typically last?
A4: Camshaft position sensors are designed to last a long time, often for the lifespan of the vehicle. However, like any electronic component, they can fail due to heat exposure, vibration, electrical issues, or internal wear. There’s no fixed lifespan, but issues typically arise after several years or high mileage.
Q5: Is an OEM or aftermarket camshaft position sensor better for my Chevy Colorado?
A5: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) sensors are made by the same company that supplied the part for your truck’s original assembly and are guaranteed to fit and function perfectly. Aftermarket sensors, like many reviewed above, can be a more affordable alternative. High-quality aftermarket sensors can perform just as well as OEM, but it’s important to choose reputable brands that meet or exceed OEM specifications to ensure reliability and compatibility.
Q6: Will a faulty camshaft position sensor damage my Chevy Colorado’s engine?
A6: While a faulty camshaft position sensor generally won’t cause direct catastrophic engine damage, it can lead to severe performance issues. Prolonged driving with a bad sensor can put added strain on other engine components due to incorrect timing or fuel delivery, potentially leading to further problems down the line. It’s best to replace it as soon as symptoms appear.
Q7: How much does it cost to replace a camshaft position sensor on a Chevy Colorado?
A7: The cost of the sensor itself typically ranges from $20 to $100 for an aftermarket part, depending on the brand and quality. If you do it yourself, that’s your only cost. If you take it to a mechanic, labor costs can add another $50 to $200, making the total cost anywhere from $70 to $300, depending on the shop’s rates and how accessible the sensor is.
