Parts for your 2013 Volkswagen Amarok-Camshaft sensor

2013 Volkswagen Amarok Camshaft Sensor

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Volkswagen Amarok is fitted with a camshaft position sensor. Volkswagen’s ElsaWin workshop manual for the 2.0 TDI (common engine codes CDBA/CFCA) specifies a Hall‑effect camshaft position sender, designated G40, mounted on the cylinder head for injection phasing and cam/crank correlation. The VW ETKA parts catalogue lists a camshaft sensor for Amarok models of this era, and VW diagnostic information (ODIS/erWin) covers DTCs such as P0340 and P0341 for this circuit. Bosch common‑rail diesel documentation also notes a cam sensor is required for cylinder recognition at start‑up. In short, the camshaft sensor is relevant and used on 2013 Amarok utes.

On a 2013 Volkswagen Amarok, the camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine control unit exactly where the camshaft is in its rotation. Working together with the crankshaft sensor, it lets the ECU recognise which cylinder is on the firing stroke, so it can time fuel injection and manage start‑up cleanly. It also allows the ECU to check that cam and crank signals line up properly, helping prevent misfuelling and rough running. Without a clean cam signal, the Amarok can be slow to fire, log faults, and fall back into limp mode.

This sensor isn’t a regular service item, but it does benefit from a bit of care during routine servicing. Under the bonnet, make sure the connector is seated firmly and free from oil intrusion, and that the harness isn’t rubbing on brackets. If the check engine light comes on, scan for codes—P0340/P0341 and cam/crank correlation faults point the finger at the sensor or its wiring. Typical symptoms of trouble include long cranking when hot, uneven idle, higher fuel use, and intermittent stalling.

• If replacement is needed, choose a quality OEM‑equivalent sensor and a fresh O‑ring.
• With the key off, remove the engine cover, unplug the connector, undo the retaining fastener, and withdraw the sensor straight out.
• Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install, and tighten the fastener to the manufacturer’s spec (refer to a workshop manual).
• Clear fault codes, check live data for cam/crank synchronisation, and take a short road test.

Most Amaroks won’t need a cam sensor during their normal service life, but high kilometres, heat, or oil contamination can age them. Keeping the area clean, fixing weeps promptly, and inspecting the plug each service go a long way to avoiding drama.

• Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2013 Volkswagen Amarok?

  On most 2.0 TDI Amaroks (CDBA/CFCA), it sits on the cylinder head near the rear, reading a trigger on the camshaft. Pop off the top engine cover to spot it. On the 2.0 TSI petrol, it’s typically near the timing cover on the intake cam. Always verify by VIN in a workshop manual.

• What are the symptoms of a failing camshaft sensor on an Amarok?

  Expect long cranking or no‑start when hot, rough idle, limp‑home mode, and the check engine light with codes like P0340/P0341 or cam/crank correlation faults. Damaged wiring or oil in the connector can mimic a bad sensor, so check those first.

• Does a new camshaft sensor need coding on a 2013 Amarok?

  No coding is usually required. After fitting a quality sensor with a new O‑ring, clear codes, confirm cam/crank sync in live data, and take a brief road test. The ECU typically learns automatically.