The 7 Best Delphi Camshaft Position Sensors: Your Guide to Optimal Engine Performance
Your car’s engine is a complex symphony of moving parts, and for it to perform its best, everything needs to be in perfect sync. That’s where the camshaft position sensor (CPS) comes into play. It’s a crucial component that tells your engine’s computer exactly where the camshaft is, helping it precisely time the fuel injection and ignition. If this sensor goes bad, you could be looking at anything from a check engine light to stalling or a rough idle.
When it comes to automotive sensors, Delphi is a name that often pops up due to its long history of providing quality parts to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Choosing a reliable Delphi camshaft position sensor can give you peace of mind and help keep your engine running smoothly. But with several options available, how do you pick the right one?
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive look at the top 7 Delphi camshaft position sensors, helping you make an informed decision to get your vehicle back on track.
Understanding the Importance of Your Camshaft Position Sensor
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s briefly touch on why this sensor is so vital. The camshaft position sensor monitors the rotational speed and position of the camshaft, which controls the opening and closing of your engine’s valves. This information is then sent to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), allowing it to synchronize the fuel delivery and spark timing. Without accurate data from the CPS, your engine’s performance can suffer, leading to issues like poor fuel economy, increased emissions, or even your car not starting at all. Replacing a faulty Delphi camshaft position sensor is often a straightforward fix that can resolve many common engine problems.
Our Top 7 Delphi Camshaft Position Sensor Picks
Here are our detailed reviews of the best Delphi camshaft position sensors available today:
1. Delphi SS11368 Engine Camshaft Position Sensor
This Delphi camshaft position sensor is built with precision, stemming directly from an ISO-certified Delphi facility. What really makes it stand out is its commitment to quality control; every part used in its manufacturing is Delphi validated. This attention to detail ensures not only a robust and long-lasting sensor but also one that provides maximum signal-to-noise ratio thanks to its specially designed digital output. It’s engineered to be unaffected by temperature fluctuations, which is critical for consistent performance in varying climates.
- Key Features:
- Manufactured in a Delphi ISO certified facility
- Designed digital output for maximum signal to noise ratio
- All parts used in the manufacture process are Delphi validated
- Not impacted by temperature changes, providing robust, long-lasting sensor protection
- Pros:
- High manufacturing standards (ISO certified)
- Excellent signal clarity due to digital output
- Durability and reliability even with temperature changes
- Ensured quality through Delphi validated components
- Cons:
- Specific vehicle fitment must be double-checked
- User Impressions: Customers frequently commend this sensor for its consistent performance and reliability. Many note that it’s a solid replacement that performs just like an OEM part, providing accurate readings and resolving engine codes effectively.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
2. Delphi SS11370 Camshaft Sensor
The Delphi SS11370 stands out because it’s brand new, not remanufactured, and engineered with the same stringent standards that Delphi applies to parts made for top global OEMs. This sensor is specifically designed to measure camshaft speed and piston position, directly influencing ignition and fuel injection timing for optimal engine efficiency. Its unique design allows for accurate readings even from the gap between the sensor contact and element, and its peak detector circuitry is cleverly immune to tilt or off-center failures, a common vulnerability in lesser sensors.
- Key Features:
- New, not remanufactured, and engineered to OEM standards
- Measures camshaft speed and piston position for ignition/fuel timing control
- Provides accurate readings from sensor contact/element gap
- Peak detector circuitry is immune to tilt or off-center failure
- Pros:
- Brand new, ensuring maximum lifespan
- OEM-level quality and performance
- Highly accurate readings
- Resistant to common installation/alignment issues
- Cons:
- Requires precise vehicle compatibility verification
- User Impressions: Users often highlight the SS11370’s precision and the noticeable improvement in engine smoothness after installation. Its reliability and “set it and forget it” nature are frequently praised by mechanics and DIY enthusiasts alike.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Delphi SS11367 Camshaft Sensor
Leveraging over 80 years of Original Equipment (OE) heritage, the Delphi SS11367 brings a legacy of quality and precise fitment to your vehicle. This particular Delphi camshaft position sensor is celebrated for its ability to provide incredibly accurate readings, thanks to its intelligent design that accounts for the gap between the sensor contact and the sensing element. Just like some of its siblings, it features peak detector circuitry that robustly shrugs off potential issues from tilt or off-center placements, ensuring reliable data flow to your ECU.
- Key Features:
- Benefits from 80+ years of OE Heritage for quality and fitment
- Provides accurate readings from the gap between sensor contact and element
- Peak detector circuitry is immune to tilt or off-center failure
- Pros:
- Excellent fitment due to OE heritage
- Highly accurate sensor readings
- Robust design resistant to installation quirks
- Reliable performance stemming from decades of expertise
- Cons:
- Might have limited applicability to specific vehicle models
- User Impressions: Many customers appreciate the SS11367 for its direct fit and immediate resolution of engine codes. Its consistent and accurate performance is a recurring theme in positive feedback.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
4. Delphi SS11362 Camshaft Sensor
Similar to the SS11367, the Delphi SS11362 also taps into Delphi’s extensive 80-year OE heritage, ensuring both top-notch quality and a perfect fit for compatible vehicles. This sensor is engineered to deliver highly accurate readings by expertly managing the gap between the sensor contact and the element. Moreover, its advanced peak detector circuitry is designed to be immune to tilt or off-center failures, which can be critical for maintaining consistent engine timing and preventing misfires. It’s a testament to Delphi’s commitment to reliability and precision.
- Key Features:
- Built on Delphi’s 80+ years of OE Heritage for quality and fitment
- Provides accurate readings from the gap between sensor contact and element
- Peak detector circuitry is immune to tilt or off-center failure
- Pros:
- Guaranteed quality and fitment from OE background
- Exceptional accuracy in signal transmission
- Resilient against common installation imperfections
- Contributes to stable engine timing
- Cons:
- Availability might depend on specific vehicle make/model compatibility
- User Impressions: Buyers frequently report that the SS11362 solves their engine issues quickly, often citing its reliable readings and straightforward installation as major benefits. It’s considered a dependable replacement that restores engine performance.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
5. Delphi SS11913 Engine Camshaft Position Sensor
The Delphi SS11913 is engineered with a particular focus on environmental performance, maintaining ideal emissions even during significant temperature changes. This camshaft position sensor is crafted to meet or exceed Original Equipment (OE) requirements, ensuring it performs just as well, if not better, than the sensor that originally came with your vehicle. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a part that offers both reliable engine function and helps keep your vehicle environmentally friendly. Please note: Delphi products purchased through Amazon may not qualify for Delphi’s standard LIMITED warranty; any warranty is typically offered by and is the sole responsibility of the seller.
- Key Features:
- Maintains ideal emissions during drastic temperature changes
- Engineered to meet or exceed OE requirements
- Pros:
- Excellent for emission control
- High-quality performance meeting OE standards
- Reliable operation across various temperatures
- Cons:
- Standard Delphi warranty may not apply if purchased via Amazon; check seller’s warranty.
- Fewer specific technical features listed compared to others (e.g., peak detector circuitry details).
- User Impressions: Customers often choose the SS11913 for its emissions benefits and its OE-level fit and finish. While the warranty note is a consideration, users generally find the sensor itself performs well and resolves their vehicle’s issues.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
6. Delphi SS11964 Engine Camshaft Position Sensor
Manufactured in an ISO-certified Delphi facility, the Delphi SS11964 is designed to deliver exceptional performance with a focus on signal integrity. Its digital output is specifically engineered for a maximum signal-to-noise ratio, meaning clearer, more accurate data for your engine’s computer. Every component within this sensor is Delphi validated, ensuring robustness and longevity, unaffected by temperature variations. This dedication to quality ensures a long-lasting and reliable sensor. As with some other Delphi products on Amazon, the standard Delphi LIMITED warranty might not apply; buyers should verify warranty details with the specific seller.
- Key Features:
- Manufactured in a Delphi ISO certified facility
- Designed digital output for maximum signal to noise ratio
- All parts used in the manufacture process are Delphi validated
- Not impacted by temperature changes and provide robust, long-lasting sensor protection
- Pros:
- High-quality manufacturing and validated components
- Superior signal accuracy and clarity
- Exceptional durability across temperature ranges
- Robust and long-lasting performance
- Cons:
- Standard Delphi warranty may not apply if purchased via Amazon; check seller’s warranty.
- User Impressions: The SS11964 is frequently praised for its reliability and precision. Users note that it often resolves complex engine issues efficiently, providing stable performance and peace of mind, despite the Amazon warranty note.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
7. Delphi SS10817 Camshaft Sensor
The Delphi SS10817 camshaft sensor is specifically designed to enhance sensing functionality, leading to reduced emissions—a win for both your car and the environment. It boasts a design that ensures accurate readings even from the subtle gap between the sensor contact and the element. Furthermore, its peak detector circuitry is cleverly engineered to be immune to tilt or off-center failures, providing consistent and reliable data. Its “Vehicle Specific” fit type ensures you’re getting a part precisely tailored for your car, making installation smoother and performance optimized.
- Key Features:
- Enhanced sensing functionality for reduced emissions
- Provides accurate readings from the gap between sensor contact and element
- Peak detector circuitry is immune to tilt or off-center failure
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
- Pros:
- Contributes to lower vehicle emissions
- Highly accurate and consistent readings
- Resistant to common installation errors
- Guaranteed vehicle-specific fit for ease of installation
- Cons:
- Might have a narrower range of vehicle applications due to specific fit.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the SS10817 for its direct fit and quick resolution of check engine lights. Its contribution to cleaner emissions and reliable performance is often highlighted, making it a favorite for those seeking an exact replacement.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly does a camshaft position sensor do in my car?
A1: The camshaft position sensor (CPS) monitors the rotational speed and position of the camshaft. It sends this data to your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU), which then uses this information to precisely time fuel injection and ignition, ensuring your engine runs efficiently and smoothly.
Q2: How do I know if my Delphi camshaft position sensor is failing?
A2: Common symptoms of a failing CPS include your “Check Engine Light” illuminating (often with codes like P0340), engine stalling, rough idling, difficulty starting the car, reduced fuel efficiency, or decreased engine performance (e.g., hesitation or misfires).
Q3: Can I replace a Delphi camshaft position sensor myself?
A3: For many vehicles, replacing the camshaft position sensor is a relatively straightforward DIY task, requiring basic tools. However, the location of the sensor varies greatly by vehicle, and some can be challenging to access. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.
Q4: What causes a camshaft position sensor to fail?
A4: Over time, these sensors can fail due to exposure to extreme heat, vibrations, electrical issues (like short circuits), or simply wear and tear. Internal electronic components can degrade, leading to inconsistent or incorrect readings.
Q5: Why choose a Delphi camshaft position sensor over other brands?
A5: Delphi has a long-standing reputation as an Original Equipment (OE) manufacturer, meaning they supply parts directly to carmakers. Their sensors often meet stringent OEM standards, providing reliable performance, accurate readings, and a precise fit, backed by decades of automotive expertise.
Q6: Is there a difference between a camshaft and a crankshaft position sensor?
A6: Yes, both are vital but monitor different components. The camshaft position sensor tracks the camshaft (which controls valve timing), while the crankshaft position sensor monitors the crankshaft (which dictates piston position). Both work together to provide the ECU with a complete picture of engine timing.
Q7: How important is “OE Heritage” when choosing a Delphi sensor?
A7: “OE Heritage” signifies that Delphi has a history of supplying parts directly to car manufacturers for use in new vehicles. This means their aftermarket parts, like these sensors, are often designed and manufactured to the same high standards, ensuring excellent quality, durability, and a guaranteed fit for compatible vehicles.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Delphi camshaft position sensor is a key step in maintaining your vehicle’s engine health and performance. Each of the sensors reviewed here offers distinct advantages, from enhanced digital output to superior resistance to temperature changes and robust OE-level quality. By considering your specific vehicle needs and paying attention to the unique features of each model, you can confidently select a sensor that will keep your engine purring reliably for miles to come. Remember to always double-check compatibility for your specific make and model before purchasing!
