Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Camshaft sensor

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero camshaft sensor — what it does and when to sort it

Yes, a camshaft position sensor is fitted to the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero across both common engine options of that era — the 3.2 DI-D (4M41) diesel and the 3.5 V6 (6G74) petrol. This is confirmed in Mitsubishi’s factory service information for the V60/V70 series (2000–2006), particularly the Engine Electrical sections that describe the Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor signal and diagnostics, as well as in Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue listings for these engines. Independent technical references like Autodata/Haynes for the same model years also detail CMP sensor testing and fault codes (e.g., P0340/P0341).

On this Pajero, the camshaft sensor lets the ECU know exactly where the camshaft is in its rotation. That’s crucial for sequential fuel injection timing, ignition timing on the V6, accurate pilot/main injection on the DI-D, smooth starts, and stable idle. Without a clean, reliable cam signal, the ECU may revert to a backup mode, leading to hard starting, rough running, misfires, higher fuel use, and the odd stall — usually with the check engine light on.

There isn’t a scheduled replacement interval for the cam sensor, it’s a “replace on failure” part. Still, it’s smart to give it a look during major services — especially around timing-belt work on the 6G74 or when checking the timing-chain area on the 4M41. Oil contamination in the connector, brittle wiring, or a cracked sensor body are all cues it’s time to act. Typical fault codes include P0340 (camshaft position circuit) and P0341 (range/performance).

• Symptoms to watch:
  • Long crank or no start when hot or cold
  • Hesitation, rough idle, or sudden stall
  • Check engine light with P0340/P0341
• Replacement tips:
  • Use quality OEM-equivalent parts for signal accuracy
  • Inspect and clean the connector, repair any chafed wiring
  • Clear codes and perform a proper road test to confirm fix

Location-wise, it’s mounted on the cylinder head near the cam gear area (secured by a small bolt and sealed with an O-ring). Access differs slightly between the DI-D and V6 layouts, but it’s generally a straightforward swap for a competent home mechanic. For workshop-level accuracy, follow the factory service procedure and torque specs, and always verify with a scan tool that the cam and crank signals are synchronised after refit.

Technical sources referenced: Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 2001 (V60/V70) Workshop Manual — Engine Electrical (CMP signal description and diagnostics), Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue — CMP sensor listings for 4M41 and 6G74, Autodata/Haynes technical data for Pajero/Montero 2000–2006 covering CMP testing and fault codes.

Popular questions

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2001 Pajero?
It’s fitted on the cylinder head near the camshaft drive end. On the 3.2 DI-D, expect it near the front timing case area, on the 3.5 V6, it’s mounted at the head where it can read the cam target wheel. A small bolt holds it in, and there’s a two- or three-pin connector. If access is tight, removing an intake duct or cover usually helps.

Can a dodgy cam sensor damage the engine?
It usually won’t cause mechanical damage by itself, but it can lead to poor running, hard starts, and higher fuel use. Ignoring it can stress components over time and leave the vehicle unreliable. Best move is to scan for codes, check wiring, and replace the sensor if it’s out of spec.

Do I need to replace the cam and crank sensors together?
Not necessarily. If diagnostics point to the cam sensor alone (and the wiring checks out), replace just that one. However, on higher-kilometre Pajeros, some technicians will proactively replace both if there are intermittent sync issues, as the signals work together for accurate timing.