Parts for your 1999 Suzuki Swift-Camshaft sensor

1999 Suzuki Swift camshaft sensor — purpose, upkeep, and when to replace

On the 1999 Suzuki Swift (SF series, commonly with the G13BB 1.3L engine), a camshaft position sensor is indeed fitted and used by the engine control module. Technical references including the Suzuki Swift SF413/SF310 factory workshop manual (1995–2001, Engine/EFI section), Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual No. 510 (Suzuki Swift 1997–2004), and the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue for SF413 all identify a Camshaft Position (CMP) signal supplied from a sensor integrated into the distributor, driven off the end of the camshaft. OBD-II documentation for the 1999 Swift also lists DTC P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit), which backs up that this model relies on a CMP input.

What does it do? The camshaft sensor tells the ECU exactly where the cam is in its rotation, so the ECU can sync injector timing, manage spark events, and improve cold starts and emissions. If the sensor signal drops out, the Swift can often still run using the crankshaft signal, but it may crank for longer, run a bit rough, and throw the check engine light.

On this model, the CMP sensor is built into the distributor assembly under the bonnet at the end of the cylinder head. Because it’s integrated, many workshops replace the distributor as a unit when the sensor fails. During routine servicing, it’s smart to check the distributor cap and internal condition for moisture or oil mist, as contamination can upset the optical/Hall pickup.

• Common signs of trouble: hard starting, intermittent misfire, uneven idle, increased fuel use, and the MIL on with a P0340 code.
• Quick checks: inspect the distributor connector and wiring for brittle insulation, loose pins, or oil ingress, clear codes and verify live RPM/CMP sync on a scan tool.
• Replacement tips: mark the distributor’s current position before removal, fit a new O-ring, and avoid twisting the housing whilst tightening. Use quality parts to avoid repeat faults.

The CMP isn’t a scheduled “replace-by” item, but on higher-kilometre Swifts it’s worth a look during major services, especially if there’s been water entry, previous overheating, or a history of hard starts. After refit, a quick road test and a scan for stable cam/crank sync will keep owners confident their little Swift is running sweet as, with smooth starts on cool Kiwi mornings or hot Aussie arvos alike.

Popular questions about 1999 Suzuki Swift camshaft sensors

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 1999 Suzuki Swift?
It’s integrated into the distributor on the end of the camshaft, mounted at the back or side of the cylinder head (engine variant dependent). You won’t see a separate standalone sensor on the timing cover, it’s inside the distributor body.

Will a bad camshaft sensor stop a 1999 Swift from starting?
Sometimes. Often the ECU falls back to the crank signal, so it may still start but crank longer and run a bit ordinary. If the CMP signal is completely lost or the wiring is damaged, no-start is possible.

Do you have to program anything after replacing the camshaft sensor?
No special coding is typically required. Clear fault codes, verify there are no air gaps or wiring issues, and make sure the distributor is refitted to its marked position. A short test drive while monitoring live data is good practice.