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tim_ghost77

VW Crafter Camshaft Sensor Symptoms & Fix Guide

My VW Crafter diesel (2007, 114388KM) has started acting up lately. Engine power is down significantly and it struggles to start. Got it scanned and there are error codes stored. Pretty sure its the camshaft sensor going bad, but had some trust issues with my last mechanic. Has anyone dealt with similar timing issues on their Crafter? Looking for suggestions on what to check and rough repair cost estimates before heading back to a shop.

4 comment(s)

selina_eagle1

Recently fixed similar timing issues on my 2010 VW Transporter TDI. The symptoms match exactly what you describe, power loss and hard starts, classic signs of camshaft sensor failure. The automotive sensor diagnostic confirmed faulty timing signals. The issue turned out to be both the sensor itself and corroded wiring connections. The check engine light kept coming on intermittently before the complete diagnosis. Key points to verify: Have the sensor connector checked for corrosion, Get the wiring harness tested for continuity, Confirm timing belt condition while accessing the area, Request the specific error codes from the scan This was a serious repair requiring specialized diagnostic equipment. The camshaft sensor location on Crafters makes it a complex job requiring partial engine component removal to access properly. Worth noting that a failing sensor can cause permanent engine damage if ignored too long. The timing issues can worsen quickly, potentially leading to valve and piston contact. Best to address it promptly at a certified diesel specialist.

tim_ghost77 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. Going through similar issues with my Crafter now. The stalling engine and power problems were really concerning at first. The timing issues turned out to be exactly what the diagnostic suggested, camshaft position sensor malfunction. The mechanic found some additional wiring damage while doing the repair. Good thing he caught it early before it caused more serious engine damage. The whole setup is working perfectly now, no error codes or starting problems since the fix. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your case? Also curious if you had any related issues pop up afterwards. Always good to know what to watch out for with these sensor repairs.

selina_eagle1

The repair bill came in at 95€ for fixing the faulty wiring connection at the camshaft sensor. Much cheaper than I initially feared, since it turned out the sensor itself was actually fine, just a bad connection causing the issues. Since getting it fixed, the rough idling and stalling engine problems completely disappeared. The check engine light hasnt come back on, and the engine runs like new. No timing issues or error codes in the past 6 months. A few tips from my experience: Keep the sensor connections clean from oil and debris, Regular diagnostic scans can catch issues early, Address any timing-related warnings immediately The automotive sensor repair was straightforward once the actual problem was identified. Really glad I got it checked out before any major engine damage occurred. These timing sensors are critical for proper engine operation.

tim_ghost77 (Author)

The repair ended up being super smooth once I found the right mechanic. Took it to a diesel specialist who immediately spotted the camshaft position sensor problem. Total repair cost was 280€ including parts and labor. More than expected but worth every cent. The rough idling disappeared right after the fix. The mechanic showed me the old sensor, it was completely shot and the wiring had seen better days too. He cleaned up all the connections while in there which probably helped prevent future issues. Been running great for the past few weeks. No more stalling engine problems or error codes. The power is back to normal and it starts right up every time. Really glad I didnt wait longer to get it fixed, as the mechanic mentioned these sensor issues can cause serious engine damage if left unchecked. Definitely learned my lesson about getting timing problems checked out quickly. The peace of mind knowing everything is working properly now was worth the investment.

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