Parts for your 2013 Honda Stream-Camshaft sensor

2013 Honda Stream camshaft sensor: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2013 Honda Stream is fitted with a camshaft position sensor (CMP). Technical documentation such as the Honda Workshop Manual for RN6–RN9 Stream models (R18A/R20A SOHC i‑VTEC) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) both show a dedicated CMP sensor mounted on the cylinder head. These sources also outline that the engine control module uses the CMP together with the crankshaft sensor to manage sequential fuel injection, ignition timing and i‑VTEC/VTC operation. OBD-II fault listings for these engines include CMP-related DTCs (e.g., P0340/P0341), further confirming its relevance.

On the 2013 Stream, the camshaft sensor reads the exact position of the cam relative to the crank. That lets the ECU know which cylinder is on the compression stroke so it can time injection and spark precisely, smooth out idle, sharpen throttle response and keep emissions tidy. It’s also used to command cam phasing on i‑VTEC/VTC, so when it’s unhappy you can end up with sluggish performance, long cranking, or the check engine light nagging under the bonnet.

It’s not a routine “wear item,” but it should be checked during servicing—especially as kilometres rack up—because heat, oil mist and vibration can age connectors and O‑rings. A quick visual under the bonnet for oil seepage around the sensor body, brittle wiring, or a loose connector can save a headache later. If faults do appear, scan for codes and look at live data for CMP/CKP sync, pros may scope the signal to confirm.

• Common signs: hard starting, erratic idle, flat spots, poor fuel economy, and DTCs like P0340/P0341. Sometimes misfire codes or VTC performance faults tag along.
• Typical causes: oil intrusion at the O‑ring, cracked connector, rubbed wiring loom, or internal sensor failure.

Replacement is fairly straightforward for most R‑series Streams. Let the engine cool, disconnect the battery, locate the sensor on the cylinder head near the timing chain end, unplug the 3‑pin connector, remove the hold‑down bolt, and ease the sensor out. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the new sensor carefully, reconnect, and tighten the fastener to the specification in the Honda manual (around 9 N·m on many R‑series engines). Use a quality OEM‑equivalent part, cheap copies can cause intermittent faults that’ll drive anyone spare. After refit, clear codes and road test to confirm clean operation and proper i‑VTEC behaviour.

Look after the wiring, keep oil leaks at bay, and the 2013 Honda Stream’s camshaft sensor will generally go the distance without fuss.

• Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2013 Honda Stream?
  It’s mounted on the cylinder head at the timing chain end, typically on the upper side of the head. Look for a small, cylindrical sensor with a single hold‑down bolt and a 3‑pin connector. Access is usually from the top under the bonnet, though some trims may be easier with the engine cover off.
• What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor on the Stream?
  The most common are P0340 (CMP circuit) and P0341 (CMP range/performance). Depending on the symptom, you might also see misfire codes or VTC performance codes. Because the ECU compares CMP and CKP, a crank sensor issue (e.g., P0335) can mimic CMP problems—so proper diagnosis matters.
• Does the camshaft sensor need periodic replacement?
  There’s no scheduled replacement interval. It’s a “replace on condition” part: change it if there are symptoms, relevant DTCs, damaged wiring, or oil intrusion at the O‑ring. During regular servicing, a quick inspection and scan check is all that’s typically needed.