This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the camshaft position sensor on the 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.5L I4 AWD engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Camshaft Position Sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Camshaft Position Sensor O-ring × 1 — Usually included with sensor

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely for at least 2 hours
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 3 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge
5. Locate camshaft position sensor on the rear of the cylinder head, intake side, facing the firewall

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the camshaft position sensor
   Remove any engine covers or plastic panels that may obstruct access to the rear of the cylinder head. On some models, the air intake duct may need to be loosened or repositioned for better access. The sensor is typically located on the upper rear section of the cylinder head near the intake camshaft.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the camshaft position sensor. Press the release tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight off the sensor. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself. If the connector is difficult to remove, gently wiggle it side-to-side while pulling.
3. 3

   Remove sensor mounting bolt
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the single mounting bolt securing the camshaft position sensor to the cylinder head. Keep this bolt as it will be reused unless damaged.
   Torque spec

   Camshaft Position Sensor10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove camshaft position sensor
   Carefully grasp the sensor body and pull it straight out from the cylinder head. Use a slight twisting motion if needed, but do not use excessive force. If the sensor is stuck, use a small amount of penetrating oil around the base and wait 10 minutes before attempting removal again. Avoid prying against the sensor body as it can crack.
5. 5

   Inspect sensor bore and O-ring
   Examine the sensor bore in the cylinder head for any debris, oil residue, or damage. Check the old sensor O-ring for damage or deterioration. If the O-ring remained in the cylinder head bore, carefully remove it using a pick tool. Clean the bore thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
6. 6

   Prepare new sensor
   Inspect the new camshaft position sensor to ensure it matches the old unit. Verify the new O-ring is properly seated in the groove on the sensor body. Lightly coat the O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation and prevent damage during insertion.
7. 7

   Install new sensor
   Carefully insert the new camshaft position sensor into the cylinder head bore, ensuring proper alignment. Push the sensor in until it is fully seated against the cylinder head mounting surface. The sensor should slide in smoothly without excessive force.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting bolt
   Insert the mounting bolt and hand-tighten it first to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the camshaft position sensor mounting bolt to specification. Do not over-tighten as this can damage the sensor housing or strip the aluminum threads in the cylinder head.
   Torque spec

   Camshaft Position Sensor10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new camshaft position sensor until you hear or feel a distinct click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely attached.
10. 10

    Reinstall access components
    Reinstall any engine covers, air intake ducts, or panels that were removed for access. Ensure all clips and fasteners are properly secured.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten securely. If a check engine light was present, use an OBD-II scanner to clear diagnostic trouble codes. The codes should clear and not return if the sensor was the issue.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly locked
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the engine bay
3. Double-check that the sensor mounting bolt is torqued to specification

Verification

• Start the engine and verify it runs smoothly without misfires or rough idle
• Check that the check engine light does not illuminate after starting
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no camshaft position sensor codes are present
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify smooth operation throughout the RPM range
• Test drive vehicle to confirm normal acceleration and no driveability issues

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