Parts for your 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander-Camshaft sensor

2019 Mitsubishi Outlander camshaft sensor — what it is, why it matters, and when to replace it

The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander does use a camshaft position sensor (CMP). This is documented in Mitsubishi Motors’ workshop manuals (MMTIS) for the ZL-series Outlander, which include diagnostic sections for CMP-related DTCs (such as P0340/P0341), and removal/installation procedures. The Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists camshaft position sensors for the 2.4-litre petrol (DOHC MIVEC), the PHEV’s 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, and the 3.0-litre V6 where fitted. Mitsubishi training material on MIVEC timing further explains the CMP’s role in synchronising valve timing with the crankshaft signal.

On the 2019 Outlander, the camshaft sensor tells the ECU exactly where the cam(s) are in their rotation. That lets the car fire the spark and inject fuel at the right moment, and it’s essential for MIVEC variable valve timing to work properly. Without a good CMP signal, cold starts can be rough, economy drops, and the engine may run in a reduced-performance strategy to protect itself.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it does benefit from a quick look whenever the engine bay is inspected. Keeping the connector clean and ensuring there are no oil leaks tracking into the plug helps. If the Check Engine light pops up with codes like P0340 or P0341, or the Outlander cranks longer than usual, hesitates, or feels flat through the revs, it’s time to scan it and check the sensor and loom.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer or any workshop. Typical steps are disconnecting the battery negative, unplugging the sensor, removing a small retaining bolt, swapping the sensor (with a fresh O-ring if specified), and refitting to the factory torque. There’s normally no programming required, some models may benefit from an idle relearn. Always follow the Mitsubishi workshop spec for torque and sealing. Quality matters here—genuine or reputable OEM-equivalent sensors tend to give the most reliable signal and long life.

• Common symptoms: hard starting, erratic idle, poor fuel economy, flat spots, or stalling with a Check Engine light.
• Location clues: on the 2.4L petrol it’s mounted at the cylinder head near a cam gear, on the PHEV’s 2.0L, similar head-end placement, on the V6, one per bank near the front of the head.
• Good practice: inspect wiring for rub-through, heat damage, or oil contamination before condemning the sensor.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2019 Outlander?

On the 2.4-litre petrol, it’s typically at the cylinder head near the end of a camshaft, accessed from the top/front of the engine. On the PHEV’s 2.0-litre engine, it’s in a similar top-end spot. V6 models use bank-specific sensors near the front of each head. Exact placement varies by engine, so a quick check against the workshop diagram helps.

How long does it last, and when should it be replaced?

They often last well over 150,000 km, with no fixed replacement interval. Replace when you’ve got faults like P0340/P0341, persistent hard starts, misfires tied to cam timing, or after confirming wiring and connectors are sound.

Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft sensor?

The Outlander may start and run, but it can stall, run rich, or feel gutless. That’s not ideal for long trips or busy traffic. If the light is on and symptoms are present, it’s best to diagnose and sort it promptly to avoid being stranded.