Mercedes-Benz S600 (2011-2017) Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide
Keep your V12 Bi-Turbo running smoothly by understanding how to choose the right camshaft position sensor.
- The V12 engine in the 2011-2017 S600 only uses one camshaft position sensor, located on the passenger side.
- For critical electronics on this engine, it is strongly recommended to use an OEM-quality brand like Bosch or Hella.
- Symptoms include a check engine light (P0340), hard starting, stalling, and poor performance.
- This is an easy DIY replacement that takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
A bad camshaft position sensor on your S600 won't always leave you stranded immediately, but the symptoms will get worse. Pay attention if your car shows these signs:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first and most obvious warning. A scan will typically show codes like P0340 or others in the P0341-P0349 range.
- Hard Starting: The engine may crank for a long time before it starts, or it might not start at all. This problem often gets worse as the sensor fails completely.
- Rough Idle & Stalling: Your V12 may idle unevenly or even stall unexpectedly, which can be dangerous when driving.
- Poor Performance: You might feel a lack of power, hesitation when you accelerate, or engine misfires.
Common Ordering Mistake
The V12 Bi-Turbo engine (M275/M277) in the 2011-2017 S600 typically only uses one camshaft position sensor. It is located on the right cylinder bank (the passenger side in North America). Unlike V6 or V8 engines that may have two or four sensors, do not order more than one for this vehicle. Always visually confirm the location on your engine before ordering.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
For a high-performance, complex engine like the one in your S600, the quality of electronic sensors is critical. While saving money is tempting, a cheap, low-quality sensor can fail quickly, cause performance issues, or be dead on arrival, forcing you to do the job twice. Here’s how the available brands generally stack up for German vehicles.
Brand Quality Tiers
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Brands
- Bosch: Bosch is a known Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Mercedes-Benz. Choosing Bosch is the closest you can get to buying the part from the dealership without the high markup. It is the most recommended choice for reliability.
- Hella: Another German brand with a strong reputation as an OEM supplier. Hella sensors are considered a top-tier, reliable alternative to a genuine part.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- Bremi: Often considered a solid mid-tier option for German cars. While not always at the same level as Bosch or Hella, it's a known brand in the European parts space.
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): A large, well-known aftermarket manufacturer. Their parts are generally considered a reliable standard replacement.
- Delphi: A major parts supplier, but some user forums report mixed results with their sensors on European cars, suggesting a Tier 1 brand might be a safer bet.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
- Dorman, Walker, Spectra, etc.: While these brands offer a significant cost saving, it is generally not recommended to use budget-tier electronic sensors on a Mercedes-Benz S600. Forum discussions frequently mention issues with these brands for cam/crank sensors, including early failure or incorrect readings. Use these only if you are on a strict budget and understand the potential risks.
Mechanic's Recommendation
For a critical sensor on a flagship vehicle like the S600, stick with Tier 1 brands like Bosch or Hella. The small amount of money saved on a cheaper sensor is not worth the risk of poor performance or having to replace the part again soon.
Cost of Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor
The cost can vary based on who does the work and the brand of part you choose. The replacement is simple enough for many DIY mechanics.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $180 - $390 |
| New Aftermarket (DIY) | $23 - $97 |
| Shop Labor | $98 - $145 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $278 - $535 |
Cost estimates are based on market research and may vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the camshaft position sensor located on my S600?
The camshaft position sensor on the 2011-2017 S600's V12 engine is typically found on the rear of the cylinder head on the passenger's side (Bank 1). You will need to remove the engine cover to see it. It is held in by a single E8 external Torx bolt.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The sensor is usually easy to access after removing the plastic engine cover. The job requires basic tools, takes less than 30 minutes, and involves removing one bolt and one electrical connector.
Are there any recalls for this part?
No. As of early 2026, there are no active recalls from Mercedes-Benz or NHTSA for the engine camshaft position sensor on the 2011-2017 S600.
Do I need to replace the crankshaft sensor at the same time?
No, it is not necessary. The camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are separate parts with different functions. You should only replace the part that has failed and is causing the diagnostic trouble code. Replace the crankshaft sensor only if it is also showing signs of failure or has a related fault code.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: A0041539628 A2729050043 2769051000 0041536928
The sensor is a 3-pin Hall effect sensor, typically held in place by a single E8 external Torx bolt.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Mercedes-Benz S600: