Parts for your 2002 Ford Falcon-Camshaft sensor

2002 Ford Falcon camshaft sensor — fitment, purpose and easy service tips

Technical references confirm the 2002 Ford Falcon does use a camshaft position sensor (CMP). Ford’s own workshop manuals and wiring diagrams for AU Series III and BA (2002 launch) show a head-mounted CMP signal feeding the EEC/PCM. Gregory’s and Max Ellery’s workshop manuals, along with Ford dealer service information for AU III (Intech SOHC) and BA (Barra DOHC), describe the CMP’s role in sequential fuel injection and, on BA Barra engines, in managing variable cam timing. So the camshaft sensor is relevant and fitted to 2002 Falcons, whether AU III early in the year or BA from late 2002.

This camshaft sensor’s day job is simple but critical: it tells the PCM exactly where the cam is in its rotation, so the engine can fire injectors and spark at the right time. On AU III, that means clean sequential injection and stable idle. On BA’s DOHC Barra, the PCM also uses the CMP to control cam phasing for smooth torque and better economy. When the sensor goes out of whack, the Falcon can be a grumpy starter, drop into limp mode, use more fuel, or throw codes like P0340/P0341.

It’s not a regular replacement item, but it’s smart to give it a look during servicing, especially on higher‑kilometre cars. Oil weeps from the rocker cover can soak the connector, and heat can harden the sensor’s O‑ring. A quick visual once the bonnet’s up—checking the plug, wiring sheath, and any oil contamination—can save dramas later.

• Common symptoms: long crank or no start when hot, rough idle, flat spots, misfires, poor fuel economy, and the MIL on.
• Basic replacement tips: disconnect the battery, remove any covers for access, unplug the sensor, back out the retaining bolt, twist and withdraw. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the sensor square, torque the bolt to spec, reconnect and clear codes with a scan tool.
• Good practice: use quality OEM‑equivalent sensors, keep the connector clean and clicked home, and fix any rocker cover leaks that can foul the plug.

On BA DOHC engines, there may be a sensor for each cam, always match the part to the engine code and build date. If a Falcon is intermittently stalling or taking ages to fire, a scan and live‑data check of the CMP and crank signals is the quickest way to confirm the culprit rather than throwing parts at it.

Popular questions about 2002 Ford Falcon camshaft sensors

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2002 Falcon?

On AU Series III, the CMP is mounted on the cylinder head and reads a cam target for sequential injection timing. On BA Barra engines, the CMPs are mounted at the front of the head near the cam gears. Exact placement varies with engine, checking the engine code and a workshop diagram makes pinpointing it straightforward.

What are the signs the camshaft sensor is failing on a 2002 Falcon?

Typical signs include longer cranking, rough idle, hesitation, sudden loss of power, and an engine light with codes like P0340. If the problem worsens when hot, or the engine occasionally won’t start until it cools, the CMP is a prime suspect.

Does the camshaft sensor need routine replacement?

No, it’s not a scheduled service item. However, during routine servicing it’s wise to inspect for oil intrusion, brittle wiring, or loose connectors, and to replace the O‑ring if there are signs of leakage when the sensor is removed.