Parts for your 2012 Honda Odyssey-Camshaft sensor

2012 Honda Odyssey camshaft sensor — usage, purpose, and service tips

Technical sources confirm the 2012 Honda Odyssey does use camshaft position sensors (CMP). The Honda Service Manual for 2011–2014 Odyssey lists CMP Sensor A and CMP Sensor B with related OBD-II fault codes (P0341/P0342/P0343 and P0346/P0347/P0348). Honda’s electronic parts catalog shows two CMP sensors fitted to the J35 V6 (one per bank), and independent repair databases detail removal and installation procedures. So yes — this model is absolutely fitted with camshaft sensors.

• Honda Service Manual (2011–2014 Odyssey): CMP Sensor A/B diagnostics and replacement
• OBD-II DTC references: P0341–P0343 (Sensor A), P0346–P0348 (Sensor B)
• Honda parts catalog: CMP sensors for J35 V6, one on each cylinder head
• Professional repair databases (e.g., Alldata/Mitchell): step-by-step CMP service info

The camshaft sensor is the engine’s timekeeper. On the 2012 Odyssey’s 3.5‑litre V6, there are two of them — one on each bank — feeding the ECM precise cam timing so it can control fuel injection, spark, and i‑VTEC valve timing. When a sensor goes out of whack, the Odyssey can be slow to start, run a bit rough, lose power, or light the check engine lamp, often with codes like P0341 or P0346.

There’s no set interval to replace a camshaft sensor, it’s a “replace when faulty” item. As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to keep an eye out for oil seepage at the sensor O‑ring, brittle wiring near the plugs, and any stored cam sensor codes even if the light’s off. Oil contamination or heat‑soaked connectors are common culprits on higher‑kilometre vans.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer under the bonnet, but tight access on the rear bank can test patience. Typical steps are: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, twist and withdraw the sensor, lightly oil a new O‑ring, seat the new unit, and torque the bolt to spec from the workshop manual. Clear codes and confirm live data shows cam signal sync. Allow about 0.5–1.0 hour per sensor depending on access and experience.

Genuine or high‑quality aftermarket sensors both do the job, choose one that’s known to play nicely with Honda’s timing strategy. If the Odyssey shows intermittent stalling, misfires, or odd shift behaviour alongside cam sensor codes, test both the cam and crank sensors and inspect the harness before throwing parts at it. A quick scan, visual check, and basic wiring test will save time and money.

• Common signs of trouble:
  • Hard starting, rough idle, or flat spots under load
  • Check engine light with P0341–P0348
  • Poor fuel economy and sluggish performance

Popular questions

How many camshaft sensors does a 2012 Honda Odyssey have?
It has two camshaft position sensors — one on each cylinder bank (often labelled Sensor A and Sensor B). Both feed timing data to the ECM for fuel, spark, and i‑VTEC control.

Where are the camshaft sensors located on a 2012 Odyssey?
They’re mounted on the ends of the cylinder heads. On this transverse V6, one sensor sits toward the radiator side (front bank) and the other toward the firewall (rear bank), near the upper timing cover areas.

Do camshaft sensors need regular servicing?
They’re not a scheduled service item. During routine servicing, check for oil leaks at the sensor O‑ring, brittle wiring, or stored cam‑related codes. Replace the sensor if it’s faulty, and clear codes after installation.