Parts for your 2020 Honda Cr-v-Camshaft sensor

2020 Honda CR‑V Camshaft Position Sensor — Purpose, Service Tips, and When It Needs Attention

Yes — the 2020 Honda CR‑V uses a camshaft position sensor (CMP). This applies to both the 1.5‑litre turbo petrol (L15B) and the 2.0‑litre Atkinson-cycle engine fitted to the Hybrid. Honda’s factory Service Manual for the 2017–2022 CR‑V (PGM‑FI/Engine Controls sections) details CMP sensor inspection and replacement procedures, and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a genuine “Sensor, Camshaft Position” for 2020 CR‑V variants. The engine control unit relies on the CMP along with the crank sensor for precise fuel, spark, and valve timing control.

On this model, the camshaft sensor tells the ECU exactly where the intake and/or exhaust cam is in its rotation. That lets the system fire injectors sequentially, trigger ignition at the right moment, steer VTC (Variable Timing Control), and manage start‑up and emissions. If the signal goes missing or drifts out of spec, the CR‑V may crank longer, run rough, hesitate, or drop into a reduced‑power strategy to protect itself, often lighting the Check Engine lamp with fault codes such as P0340 or P0341.

The camshaft sensor isn’t a scheduled service item in Australia or New Zealand. Still, it benefits from sensible care during regular servicing: keep the connector clean and latched, avoid oil contamination around the cylinder head plug, and fix any weeps that could soak the sensor’s O‑ring. If drivability issues crop up, good practice is to scan for codes, check live cam/crank correlation, and inspect the wiring before condemning the sensor.

Replacement is usually straightforward. On the 1.5T, the CMP sits at the top/front of the engine near the timing cover on the cylinder head (remove the plastic engine cover for access). The Hybrid’s CMP is similarly mounted on the head of the 2.0‑litre engine. With the ignition off, unplug the connector, undo the retaining bolt, and lift the sensor out. Fit a new O‑ring if supplied, seat the new unit squarely, nip the bolt to spec, reconnect, clear codes and road‑test. Sticking with a genuine Honda sensor or a reputable OE brand helps ensure clean signal quality and long service life.

• Common symptoms of a failing CMP: hard starting, stalling at idle, poor economy, sluggish acceleration, and an illuminated engine warning lamp.
• Before replacement, rule out damaged wiring, low battery voltage, or timing/VTC issues that can mimic CMP faults.

Technical sources referenced: Honda CR‑V (2017–2022) Service Manual, PGM‑FI/Engine Controls, Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue listing for 2020 CR‑V “Sensor, Camshaft Position.”

FAQs

Where is the camshaft position sensor on a 2020 Honda CR‑V?
On the 1.5‑litre turbo, it’s mounted on the cylinder head at the front/top of the engine near the timing cover, typically by the intake cam area under the plastic engine cover. The Hybrid’s 2.0‑litre engine has its CMP on the cylinder head as well, with similar under‑bonnet access.

How often should the camshaft sensor be replaced?
There’s no routine replacement interval. It should last many years and well over 100,000 km. Replacement is advised only when diagnostic tests confirm a fault, or if the connector/sensor is oil‑soaked or physically damaged.

Can a bad camshaft sensor damage the engine?
It typically won’t cause immediate mechanical damage, but it can lead to poor running and misfires. Prolonged misfiring can stress the catalytic converter, so prompt diagnosis and repair are smart to keep the CR‑V running sweet and emissions in check.