The camshaft position sensor in your 3.5 liter VQ35 engine is vital to proper engine functionality. This is a simple phase type sensor that picks up the position of your camshafts and piston in relation to engine speed. If you have a P0340 or P0345 OBDII check engine light, this guide can help you test 350Z camshaft sensor to clear the error code.
Many enthusiasts often mix up the crankshaft position sensor, with the camshaft sensor. If you are looking for how to test a VQ35 crankshaft sensor, that guide is located here. Looking for instructions on how to replace your camshaft sensor are here.
Learn How to Test 350Z camshaft sensor
Replacing the VQ camshaft sensor is simple enough to do, and can be done with hand tools. Although this guide will show you how to test the cam sensor in your 350Z, this also applies to any Nissan or Infiniti vehicle with the same engine.
The 350Z camshaft sensor part number is 23731-AL61A. The camshaft sensor provides various conditions of engine parts to the onboard computer. The ECU then utilizes timing of cylinder identification signals and camshaft sensors to orchestrate engine events.
Although this part doesn’t normally fail, it can degrade over time. Decreased functionality can lead to misfire or improper engine operation. Overly rich conditions can also be caused when the VQ35 camshaft sensor goes bad.
Once you know test 350Z camshaft sensor steps, you can identify whether or not your hall effect sensor has gone bad. There are 3 wires coming from the camshaft sensor. These are listed in the Test 350Z camshaft sensor diagram below.
Pin 1 on the camshaft sensor harness is an engine ground. Pin 3 leads to the main ECM relay, and provides switched power to the sensor. Pin 2 is of course the signal, which leads to the pin 33 on the VQ35 ECU.
In order to Test 350Z camshaft sensor the right way, you’ll need to remove the unit. Take a look at the diagram below to see where VQ35 camshaft sensors are in relation to your engine.
Before you begin our Test 350Z camshaft sensor, it’s a good idea to have a multimeter ready. If you don’t know how to use a multimeter, use our guide here.
Our Test 350Z camshaft sensor guide requires you to disconnect the camshaft sensor harness. With this sensor removed, you will be checking harness continuity between ECM terminal 33. This is located in your cabin, and under your passenger side dash.
Next check the harness for ground and power. If these two are present, you will need to test the camshaft sensor directly. Because this is a hall effect sensor, you will be testing for continuity between the pins.
In order to test 350Z camshaft sensor functionality, use the multimeter to test the following pins. Refer to the diagram below to see the pins laid out.
Pin 1 and 2 as well as Pin 2 and 3 must show continuity. If you get an open or short condition, it’s time to replace your camshaft sensor.
Have any questions about our Test 350Z camshaft sensor guide? Leave us a comment below and let us know!