Parts for your 2021 Honda Civic-Camshaft sensor

2021 Honda Civic Camshaft Sensor (CMP)

Yes, a camshaft sensor is fitted to the 2021 Honda Civic and it’s absolutely relevant. Technical references including the 2021 Honda Civic Factory Service Manual (Engine Controls and VTC/i-VTEC sections), OEM wiring diagrams, and Honda parts catalogues list a Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor for both the 2.0L (K20C2) and 1.5L turbo (L15B7) engines, with the ECU using CMP data alongside the crank sensor to manage fuel injection, ignition timing, and valve timing. These sources also outline related OBD-II diagnostics such as P0340/P0341/P0365, confirming the system’s presence and function.

On the 2021 Civic, the CMP sensor reads the camshaft’s position so the ECU can sync injection and spark, and command the i-VTEC/VTC gear for crisp starts, smooth idle, solid performance, and low emissions. Depending on the engine variant, there’s one or sometimes two CMP sensors mounted on the cylinder head near the timing chain end.

When a CMP plays up, the car may default to backup strategies that get it home but not happily. Common signs include:

• Check Engine Light with codes like P0340/P0341/P0365
• Long cranking, rough idle, flat spots, or reduced power
• Poor fuel economy and occasional stalling

This part isn’t a routine replacement item, but it does benefit from a quick look during servicing. Under the bonnet, check the connector and loom for oil intrusion, heat damage, or brittle insulation. Keeping engine oil fresh and to spec helps cam phaser operation, which in turn keeps CMP readings clean and predictable.

If replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward job for a competent DIYer or workshop: disconnect the battery, remove the engine cover, unplug the sensor, take out the retaining bolt, and gently twist the sensor free. Lightly oil the new O-ring, refit, and torque the bolt to the workshop manual spec. Always confirm the fault first—scan for DTCs, inspect the wiring, and where possible verify the signal. On higher-kilometre cars, timing chain stretch or a slipped reluctor can mimic a bad sensor, so proper diagnosis matters.

Bottom line: the CMP sensor on a 2021 Civic is a small, sealed Hall-effect device that rarely needs attention, but when it does, a quality replacement and tidy wiring will keep the i-VTEC behaving itself for many more kilometres.

Popular questions about the 2021 Honda Civic camshaft sensor

Where is the camshaft sensor located on a 2021 Honda Civic?
It’s mounted on the cylinder head at the timing chain end, typically on the intake side. On the 1.5L turbo and 2.0L engines it’s near the top corner under the engine cover. Some variants may have an additional sensor on the exhaust cam.

Access is usually simple once the engine cover is off. Always verify by checking the connector style and harness routing against a service manual or a trusted parts diagram.

Can a camshaft sensor be cleaned, or should it be replaced?
The sensor is sealed, cleaning won’t fix internal faults. You can safely clean the connector and remove any oil from the housing, but persistent faults or relevant DTCs generally call for replacement.

If there’s oil at the sensor body, replace the O-ring with the sensor and make sure there’s no leak from nearby covers adding contamination.

Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft sensor?
The engine may run using fallback strategies, but you can experience hard starts, rough running, higher fuel use, and possible stalling. It’s best to minimise driving and get it diagnosed and sorted promptly.

Continued driving can also mask other timing issues, so addressing it early saves drama later.