Parts for your 2009 Honda Accord-Camshaft sensor

2009 Honda Accord Camshaft Sensor — What It Does and When to Replace It

Based on Honda’s own technical literature, the 2009 Honda Accord does use a camshaft position (CMP) sensor. The 2.4‑litre i‑VTEC four-cylinder has a CMP sensor on the cylinder head, and the 3.5‑litre i‑VTEC V6 uses a CMP sensor for each bank. This is documented in the Honda Accord 2008–2012 Service Manual (Engine/PGM‑FI: Camshaft Position Sensor), the 2009 Accord Electrical Troubleshooting Manual (CMP circuit and CKP/CMP correlation), common Honda DTC references (P0340/P0341/P0365/P0366), and Honda genuine parts catalogues listing a “Sensor, Camshaft Position” for the 2009 Accord engines.

For the 2009 Accord, the camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine computer exactly where the camshaft sits in its rotation so it can time fuel injection and spark, and properly manage i‑VTEC/VTC. That means easier starts, smoother idle, better fuel economy and strong, clean power under load. If the sensor signal goes missing or messy, the Accord can be slow to start, run rough, use more petrol, and light the check engine lamp with codes such as P0340, P0341, P0365 or P0366.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item in normal servicing. Still, it’s smart to give it a once‑over whenever the rocker cover’s off or during a major service. A few simple habits help it live a long life:

• Use the correct grade engine oil and change it on time, sludgy oil and metal debris can upset the signal.
• Inspect the sensor connector and loom for brittle insulation or oil ingress, and sort any leaks around the sensor O‑ring.
• Avoid soaking the sensor in solvent, if you must clean it, use a sensor‑safe cleaner and a light touch.

Replacement on the 2.4‑litre is usually a quick driveway job: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, swap the O‑ring, lightly oil the new O‑ring, refit and tighten to factory spec, then clear codes and do an idle learn if needed. The V6 can be trickier, especially the rear bank, access may demand more patience or a workshop visit. Stick with quality OEM or reputable aftermarket parts—cheap knock‑offs can cause repeat faults or dodgy running. After fitting, scan for codes, confirm live data looks tidy, and take it for a relaxed test drive to ensure smooth starts and clean acceleration across a few kilometres.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2009 Honda Accord?

On the 2.4‑litre, it’s mounted on the cylinder head near the timing end under the bonnet, easy to spot by its small connector and single retaining bolt. On the 3.5‑litre V6 there’s one on each bank, the front bank is reasonably accessible, while the rear bank sensor is tucked closer to the firewall and can be tighter for space.

Can it be driven with a bad camshaft sensor?

It may still run, but starting can be hit‑and‑miss, fuel use can jump, and it might stall or feel flat. Continued driving risks damaging the catalytic converter if misfires occur. Best bet: get the fault confirmed with a scan and repair it promptly.

Does a new camshaft sensor need programming?

On this Accord it’s typically plug‑and‑play. Clear any codes, and the ECU will relearn CKP/CMP correlation on its own during normal driving. If idle is unstable after battery disconnect, perform a basic idle learn procedure as per the service manual.