Parts for your 2018 Honda Cr-v-Camshaft sensor

2018 Honda CR‑V camshaft sensor — what it does and how to look after it

Technical references confirm the 2018 Honda CR‑V is fitted with a camshaft position sensor (CMP). These include the Honda CR‑V 2017–2019 Service Manual (Honda Service Information) under PGM‑FI Engine Controls: Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Honda’s OEM parts catalogue for 2018 CR‑V (listing a CMP sensor for both the 1.5‑litre turbo L15B and 2.4‑litre K24 engines), and professional workshop databases such as Autodata/ALLDATA that show wiring diagrams, test procedures and DTCs (for example P0340–P0344) for the CMP circuit.

On the 2018 CR‑V, the camshaft sensor feeds the ECU precise cam timing data so it can run sequential fuel injection, variable valve timing (VTC) and accurate ignition timing. Without a clean signal, the engine can suffer hard starting, rough idle, flat spots, poor fuel economy and a glowing check engine light. Depending on engine variant, there’s at least one CMP sensor, DOHC versions may use a sensor for each cam.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it deserves attention whenever the bonnet’s up. Good oil is key: dirty or diluted oil can upset cam timing hardware and lead to erratic signals. Keep to the recommended oil grade and intervals, particularly important on the 1.5‑litre turbo. During services, a quick visual is worthwhile:

• Check the CMP sensor plug and loom near the cam cover for brittle insulation, oil intrusion or a loose connector.
• Look for oil leaks at the sensor O‑ring and around the rocker cover that could wick into the connector.
• If there’s a long crank, misfire or stalling with codes like P0341/P0344, scope or scan the CMP and CKP sync before firing the parts cannon.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, swap the sensor and O‑ring, then refit and tighten to factory spec. Clear codes and confirm the live data shows stable cam/crank synchronisation. Programming is typically not required on Hondas after CMP replacement, but a road test and an idle relearn (if requested by the scan tool) are smart practice.

When buying, stick with genuine or quality OEM‑equivalent sensors—cheapies can introduce noisy signals that cause intermittent faults. If faults persist after replacement, inspect earths, the crank sensor, timing chain stretch, and the VTC actuator, as these can mimic a dud cam sensor.

Popular questions

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2018 Honda CR‑V?
The camshaft sensor sits at the end of a camshaft on the cylinder head, near the top of the engine under the plastic cover. Depending on engine, you may see one sensor or a pair—usually at the timing chain end. Access is through the engine bay, remove the engine cover for a clear look.

What are common signs of a failing camshaft sensor?
Owners often report longer cranking, a shaky idle, hesitation on take‑off and the check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes such as P0340–P0344 are common. If symptoms are intermittent, wiggling the harness at idle can expose a dodgy connection.

Does the camshaft sensor need programming after replacement?
No special programming is usually required on the 2018 CR‑V. After installation, clear fault codes, perform an idle relearn if prompted, and verify cam/crank sync and VTC operation with a scan tool during a short test drive.