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Chevrolet Aveo Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide for 2004-2012 Models

Fix stalling, rough idling, and starting problems in your Aveo by understanding and choosing the right camshaft position sensor.

4 minutes to read 2004-2012 Chevrolet Aveo
Difficulty
2/5
Est. Time
0.75 hrs
DIY Doable?
✅ Yes
Shop Labor
$60-$150
⚠️ Drivable, but... — You can drive, but the engine may stall, run poorly, or fail to restart, potentially leaving you stranded.
Key Takeaways
  • A failing camshaft sensor is a very common cause for stalling, no-start, and rough running issues in a 2004-2012 Aveo, often triggering codes P0340 or P0342.
  • For critical sensors, choosing an OEM (ACDelco) or OEM-equivalent (Delphi) brand is strongly recommended to ensure reliability and avoid repeat failures.
  • This is a DIY-friendly repair that can be done in under an hour with basic tools; just be sure to block the opening below the sensor to prevent dropping bolts into the engine.
  • Before buying a new sensor, always check the wiring connector for damage, as a bad pigtail can cause the same symptoms.
The engine camshaft position sensor, or CMP, is a critical part of your 2004-2012 Chevrolet Aveo's engine. It acts like a watch for the engine's computer, called the Engine Control Module (ECM). The sensor constantly monitors the exact position and speed of the camshaft. This information tells the ECM precisely when to inject fuel and when to create a spark for ignition. When this timing is perfect, your Aveo's engine runs smoothly, gets good gas mileage, and produces fewer emissions.

Is Your Aveo Stalling or Running Rough? It Could Be the Camshaft Sensor.

The engine bay of a Chevrolet Aveo with the plastic cover removed, showing the area where the camshaft sensor is located.
A failing camshaft sensor on the Chevrolet Aveo can cause stalling and poor engine performance by sending incorrect timing data to the ECU.

If your Chevrolet Aveo is suddenly hard to start, stalling, or losing power, a failing camshaft position sensor is a likely suspect. This sensor sends vital timing information to your engine's computer. When it starts to fail, the computer gets bad data, leading to a host of engine performance problems. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to getting stranded or even damaging other components like the catalytic converter.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Sensor in a 2004-2012 Aveo

Side-by-side comparison of a brand new, clean camshaft sensor versus a failed sensor with visible heat damage and oil contamination.
Comparing a healthy sensor (left) to a failed unit (right). Physical damage like melting or oil intrusion into the connector are clear signs of failure.
  • Check Engine Light: This is often the first and most obvious sign. The computer will store a trouble code, most commonly P0340 or P0342.
    • 🎬 See how to fix code P0340 on a 2008 Aveo.
  • Engine Won't Start: The engine may crank but refuse to start because the computer doesn't know when to send fuel and spark.
  • Stalling and Hesitation: Your Aveo might stall unexpectedly, especially at low speeds, or hesitate badly when you press the gas pedal.
  • Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may shake or run unevenly while stopped, and you might feel a jerking or sputtering sensation while driving.
  • Loss of Power: The car may feel sluggish and have trouble accelerating.
    • 🎬 Watch this breakdown of common bad camshaft sensor symptoms.

Known Issues for the Chevrolet Aveo

TSB for No-Start (2009-2011): Some 2009-2011 Aveo models have a known issue where a faulty exhaust camshaft sensor can send a signal making the computer think the engine is already running, preventing it from cranking. This is detailed in Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) PI0867.

Early Model Recall: While not for the Aveo by name, a recall was issued for the Daewoo platform that the early Aveo is based on. It concerned a camshaft sensor that could melt and potentially cause a fire. This highlights the importance of not ignoring a failing sensor.

Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Quality Tiers

A high-quality aftermarket camshaft position sensor in its retail brand packaging.
Choosing a Tier 1 or Tier 2 brand like ACDelco or Standard Ignition ensures the sensor sends accurate signals to the Aveo's computer.

When it comes to electronic sensors, quality matters. While budget parts are tempting, they can fail quickly or send inaccurate signals, leaving you with the same problem. For a critical part like the camshaft position sensor, it's best to choose a brand with a reputation for reliability.

  • Tier 1 (OEM & OEM-Equivalent): ACDelco is the original GM parts brand and the safest bet for guaranteed fit and performance. Delphi was the company that originally manufactured many of GM's parts, so their sensors are widely considered to be OE-quality. Choosing one of these two brands is highly recommended for a lasting repair.
  • Tier 2 (High-Quality Aftermarket): Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP), NGK, and Walker Products have a strong reputation in the aftermarket for producing reliable sensors that perform well. They are a solid choice if an OEM part isn't in the budget.
  • Tier 3 (Budget Brands): This category includes many other brands available online. While the low price is attractive, their quality and durability can be inconsistent. Using a budget sensor can be a gamble; it might work fine, or it might fail prematurely, forcing you to do the job all over again.

Pro Tip: Before replacing the sensor, inspect the wiring connector (pigtail) for any corrosion, damage, or loose pins. Sometimes the connector is the real problem, not the sensor itself.

Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost for 2004-2012 Aveo

Replacing the camshaft sensor is not an expensive repair. The part itself is affordable, and the labor is straightforward for a mechanic.

Item Estimated Cost
New Aftermarket Part $21 - $65
New OEM (ACDelco) Part $40 - $75
Shop Labor $60 - $150
Total Professional Replacement $120 - $250

Frequently Asked Questions

Close-up of the Chevrolet Aveo engine with the timing cover pulled back to reveal the camshaft sensor location.
The sensor is located on the passenger side of the engine, typically mounted between the two camshaft sprockets behind the upper timing cover.
Where is the camshaft position sensor located on a 2004-2012 Aveo?

The sensor is on the passenger side of the engine. You need to remove the plastic engine cover and the upper timing belt cover to see it. It is mounted between the two camshaft gears (sprockets). Note that 2009 and newer models may have two sensors, one for the intake camshaft and one for the exhaust.

🎬 Watch this guide to replacing the intake sensor on 2009+ models.
Can I replace the sensor myself?

Yes, this is a good DIY job for a beginner. You will need basic hand tools like a 10mm socket and wrench. The most important tip is to stuff a rag into the opening below the sensor before you remove the small bolts so they cannot fall down into the engine's timing belt area.

What is the difference between a camshaft and crankshaft sensor?

They work as a team. The camshaft sensor tracks the top part of the engine (valves), while the crankshaft sensor tracks the bottom part (pistons). The computer uses both signals to get a complete picture of the engine's cycle to control timing perfectly.

Will replacing the sensor always fix a P0340 or P0342 code?

Usually, but not always. These codes mean there is a problem in the sensor's *circuit*. The issue could be the sensor itself, the wiring/connector, a loose timing belt, or even a problem with the engine's computer. However, a failed sensor is the most common cause.

Replace Camshaft Position Sensor 2008 Chevrolet Aveo5 for OBD-II Code P0340
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Replace Camshaft Position Sensor 2008 Chevrolet Aveo5 for OBD-II Code P0340
PO 340 code replace Camshaft sensor Chevy Aveo 2007 part one of two
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PO 340 code replace Camshaft sensor Chevy Aveo 2007 part one of two
CÓDIGO P0342 CHEVROLET AVEO | SENSOR DE ÁRBOL DE LEVAS DEL AVEO
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CÓDIGO P0342 CHEVROLET AVEO | SENSOR DE ÁRBOL DE LEVAS DEL AVEO
Chevrolet Aveo P0342 CMP "Sensor Árbol de Levas"
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Chevrolet Aveo P0342 CMP "Sensor Árbol de Levas"
Chevy Aveo 2009 P0341 P0340 Cómo reemplazar intake camshaft sensor
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Chevy Aveo 2009 P0341 P0340 Cómo reemplazar intake camshaft sensor
SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
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SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR

Technical Specifications

OEM Part Numbers: 96253544 213-4701

This sensor is a 3-pin Hall effect sensor that reads the camshaft's position. It is located under the upper timing belt cover. Some 2009-2012 models use two separate sensors for the intake and exhaust camshafts.

Wrenchy
Article researched & written by
Wrenchy
Go-Parts' AI research assistant. Every article is backed by live web research, verified OEM data, and real technician knowledge — so you get accurate, up-to-date information you can trust.
Meet Wrenchy → Updated Jul 21, 2026

The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.

Year Coverage
This article covers the Engine Camshaft Position Sensor for:
  • Chevrolet Aveo: 200420052006200720082009201020112012
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