Parts for your 2008 Holden Commodore-Camshaft sensor

2008 Holden Commodore camshaft sensor — is it fitted and what does it do?

Yes, the 2008 Holden Commodore uses a camshaft position sensor (CMP). This is documented in the Holden VE Commodore Service Manual (GM Service Information, VE Series, 2006–2010), and it’s listed as a service part in the ACDelco Australia/NZ parts catalogue for both the 3.6‑litre V6 (HFV6/LY7) and the 6.0‑litre V8 (Gen IV L98/L76). Bosch technical literature on CMP sensors also explains their role in sequential injection, ignition timing and variable cam phasing—features used on these engines.

On a 2008 VE Commodore, the camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine control module exactly where the camshaft is relative to the crank. That lets the ECU fire the injectors and coils at the right time and, on the V6 with variable valve timing, confirm that the cam phasers are doing what they’re told. When the sensor goes crook, the car can crank longer, stumble, feel down on power, use more fuel, or throw a check‑engine light with a cam/crank correlation code.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it does rely on clean oil and good wiring. Sticking to the correct oil spec and intervals in the owner’s manual helps keep the sensor and the cam phasers happy. Under the bonnet, a quick visual once‑over during servicing—checking the connector for oil intrusion, brittle insulation, or a loose retaining bolt—goes a long way.

If replacement is needed, a sensible approach is:

• Scan for codes (common ones include P0340, P0341, P0343). Don’t overlook timing chain correlation codes (P0008/P0009/P0016–P0019) which can indicate mechanical timing issues rather than a bad sensor.
• Inspect the connector and harness first, poor contact or oil wicking is common and easy to fix.
• Use quality OE‑equivalent parts (ACDelco/Delphi/Bosch). Cheap sensors can cause intermittent faults.
• Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the sensor squarely, and torque the retaining bolt to spec from the workshop manual.
• Clear codes and confirm live data. Perform a cam/crank relearn if the scan tool requests it.

Location-wise, the V6 typically uses multiple cam sensors mounted at the front of the cylinder heads, while the V8 uses a single sensor at the timing cover. Access is straightforward for most driveway mechanics with basic tools, but where timing correlation faults exist, a professional diagnosis is worth it—especially on higher‑kilometre cars.

Popular questions

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2008 Holden Commodore?
On the 3.6‑litre V6, cam sensors are mounted at the front of the cylinder heads (one per bank, depending on variant). On the 6.0‑litre V8, the sensor is typically fitted at the front timing cover. Access is usually from the top with the engine cover off, though space can be tight near the radiator support.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor on a VE Commodore?
Common CMP‑related codes are P0340, P0341 and P0343. If you see P0008, P0009 or P0016–P0019, that can indicate a timing correlation problem which may be sensor, wiring, oiling, or mechanical timing (e.g., chain stretch on some high‑kilometre engines). Always rule out wiring and oil condition before replacing parts.

Can you drive with a faulty camshaft sensor?
It might still run, but it can be hard to start, go into limp mode, or stall unexpectedly. That’s not ideal in Aussie or Kiwi traffic. It’s best to diagnose and fix it promptly to protect the engine and avoid getting stranded.