Camshaft Position Sensor BMW E39: Diagnosis, Symptoms & Replacement Guide

The camshaft position sensor in the BMW E39 plays a critical role in engine timing, monitoring camshaft speed and position to ensure precise fuel injection and ignition timing. Failure of this sensor often leads to misfires, erratic idle, or complete engine failure, making timely diagnosis essential. Symptoms include check engine light activation, difficulty starting, rough idling, and reduced power.

Installing a correct camshaft position sensor on the BMW E39 begins with accessing the sensor—typically located near the camshaft gear or cylinder head. Disconnect the battery, remove the relevant intake components, and use careful wiring harness separation. Verify the old sensor’s condition, inspect for corrosion or damage, and connect the new sensor with proper torque specifications. After reassembly, reset the ECU and verify sensor signals with an OBD2 scanner to ensure accurate timing.

Regular inspection and prompt replacement of the camshaft position sensor can extend engine life and prevent costly damage. For optimal performance, always use OEM or high-grade aftermarket sensors compatible with the E39’s electrical and mechanical specifications.

Final note: If you're experiencing engine performance issues, verify the camshaft position sensor immediately—its condition directly impacts your BMW E39’s reliability and power delivery.

The camshaft position sensor is used to synchronize fuel injection and as a feedback device for VANOS (variable camshaft timing) control (if equipped). When a camshaft sensor fails, the check engine light will illuminate and a fault code will be stored. I have seen faulty sensors cause engine stalling and poor engine drivability.

The camshaft position sensor is used to synchronize fuel injection and as a feedback device for VANOS (variable camshaft timing) control (if equipped). URO Camshaft Position Sensor. Camshaft Position Sensor, OEM - E39 540i, E38 740i, E53 X5 4.4i/4.6is M62TU Sends camshaft position to the computer.

OEM replacement for BMW part #12147539166. Part Numbers: (2) Intake Camshaft Position Sensor: 12147539173 (2) Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor: 13627796054 Installation On the S62 V8 found in the E39 M5, replacing the cam sensors is not a fun job. The sensors are located at the back of the valve covers, in between the engine and the firewall.

Intake Camshaft Position Sensor - Priced Each Located on rear of the cylinder head, sensing the intake cam Two required per engine, may be replaced separately as needed. 12147539166 New Camshaft Position Sensor. 12147539166, 12141438083, 1214 1 438 083, 12 14 7 539 166, S10223, 5S1222.

fit for BMW E38 E39 E53 540i 740i X5. 1998. URO Camshaft Position Sensor - BMW E38 E39 E53 E52 M62 4.4L 4.6L 4.8L Ships in 1 Business Day $ 14.46 USD.

This Genuine BMW Camshaft Position Sensor (Mfg#12147539165) fits BMW E39 525i, BMW E39 528i, BMW E39 530i, BMW E46 323Ci, BMW E46 323i, BMW E46 325Ci, BMW E46 325i, BMW E46 325xi, BMW E46 328Ci, BMW E46 328i, BMW E46 330Ci, BMW E46 330i, BMW E46 330xi, BMW E53 X5 M54 3.0L, BMW E60 525i M54 2.5L, BMW E60 530i M54 3.0L, BMW E83 M54 2.5L, BMW E83 M54 3.0L, BMW Z3 2.3 M52 2.5L, BMW Z3 2.5i, BMW Z3. Product Details Camshaft position sensor. Part Number (s) 12141742185 Brand Part Use Series Model Body Year (s) 5' E39 535i Sedan to 09.