Parts for your 2013 Holden Barina-Camshaft sensor

2013 Holden Barina camshaft-sensor — purpose, symptoms and service tips

Yes, the 2013 Holden Barina is fitted with a camshaft-sensor (camshaft position sensor). This is confirmed by Holden/GM Service Information (GlobalTIS/SI) for the TM-series (2011–2016), the GM/ACDelco parts catalogue, and workshop data providers such as Autodata and Haynes, all of which list the camshaft-sensor, related diagnostic trouble codes (e.g., P0340, P0341, P0365) and service procedures for Barina models with the 1.6 petrol and the 1.4 turbo engines.

The camshaft-sensor’s job is to tell the engine control module exactly where the camshaft sits in its rotation. That timing signal lets the ECU run true sequential fuel injection, line up spark precisely, and manage variable valve timing where fitted. When the signal goes missing or messy, the Barina can be hard to start, run rough, lose power, drink more petrol and light the MIL.

Common give-aways of a failing camshaft-sensor include:

• Extended cranking, rough idle, flat spots or stalling once warm
• Higher fuel use and reduced performance
• Stored codes such as P0340/P0341 (cam sensor circuit/performance) or cam/crank correlation faults

On the TM Barina, the camshaft-sensor is a three‑wire Hall‑effect unit mounted at the cylinder head. On the 1.6, it’s near the upper timing cover/rocker cover area, on the 1.4T RS, it’s at the front of the head on the intake side. There’s no routine maintenance for the sensor itself, but clean engine oil and timely services help keep the signal clean and the timing gear healthy. Oil contamination inside connectors, damaged wiring near the rocker cover, or a stretched/incorrectly timed belt or chain can all mimic a dud sensor, so diagnosis should include visual checks and a live‑data look at cam/crank sync.

When replacement is warranted, a quality OEM‑equivalent sensor is the go. Fit a new O‑ring, route the loom in the factory clips, and tighten the retaining bolt to the specification in Holden SI (don’t overdo it). After fitting, clear codes and confirm cam/crank correlation and stable cam signal on a scan tool. Most ECUs will adapt on their own, but a cam/crank correlation or CKP variance relearn may be recommended depending on software level. Typical workshop time is well under an hour. If a fresh sensor doesn’t resolve the fault, recheck timing alignment and the crank sensor before chasing more exotic causes.

FAQs

Where is the camshaft-sensor on a 2013 Holden Barina?

It’s mounted at the top of the engine on the cylinder head. On most 1.6 models it sits near the upper timing cover at the end of the camshaft, on the 1.4T RS it’s usually on the intake side at the front of the head. Access is under the bonnet without major dismantling.

What fault codes point to a camshaft-sensor issue on a Barina TM?

Common codes include P0340 and P0341 for camshaft position circuit/performance, and sometimes cam/crank correlation faults. Note that wiring faults, oil contamination in the plug, or timing belt/chain misalignment can trigger the same codes, so testing is key.

Does the camshaft-sensor need programming after replacement?

Generally no special coding is required. The ECU usually learns the new signal automatically. Some workshops perform a cam/crank correlation or CKP variation relearn with a scan tool as good practice, then road test and confirm no returning DTCs.