If you are troubleshooting a failing Infiniti G35, locating the camshaft position sensor is a critical first step. This small but essential component helps the engine control system time fuel injection and ignition, and knowing its exact position can save you diagnostic time.
Below you will find a quick reference table, detailed walkthroughs of the sensor location, related performance topics, an FAQ section, and key takeaways tailored specifically for the Infiniti G35 platform.
| Component | Location on Infiniti G35 | Common Symptoms of Failure | Typical Replacement Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | Driver side cylinder head, near the valve cover and timing belt area | Hard starting, stalling, rough idle, check engine light, stored camshaft related codes | Often accessible from the top, may require valve cover removal on higher mileage vehicles |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | Front of the engine, bell housing or crank trigger area | No start condition, intermittent stalling, engine misfire codes | Critical for engine timing; verify connector and wiring before replacement |
| Ignition Coil Pack | On the valve cover or connecting directly to spark plugs | Misfire on one or more cylinders, rough acceleration, loss of power | Coil failure can mimic sensor symptoms; perform a spark test when diagnosing |
| Timing Belt and Tensioner | Front of the engine, encircling crankshaft and camshaft sprockets | Slapping noise from front of engine, metal shavings in oil, sudden loss of power | Inspect belt during service; replace according to interval to avoid sensor misalignment |
Identifying the Camshaft Position Sensor on Your Infiniti G35
Under the hood of an Infiniti G35, the camshaft position sensor is typically mounted on the driver side cylinder head. You will find it near the timing belt cover, positioned close to the valve cover gasket area. The sensor plugs into a small electrical connector and works in conjunction with the crankshaft position sensor to monitor valve timing.
Because the engine layout places other components in tight quarters, gaining access may require moving intake hoses or small brackets. It helps to locate the timing marks first, then identify the sensor that sits adjacent to the camshaft sprocket or gear cover. Always verify the year and trim, since sensor mounting points can vary slightly between model years.
Before you begin any work, disconnect the battery and allow the engine to cool. A mechanic’s stethoscope or a simple timing light can help confirm that the sensor signal is present, especially if you are chasing intermittent symptoms related to camshaft position feedback.
Step by Step Location Guide
Finding the camshaft position sensor on an Infiniti G35 becomes straightforward when you follow a logical sequence. Start from the front of the engine and work toward the driver side, focusing on the area where the valve cover meets the timing belt housing.
- Open the hood and locate the timing belt cover at the front of the engine.
- Identify the driver side cylinder head and valve cover assembly.
- Look for a two wire or three wire electrical connector protruding from the cylinder head or adjacent wiring harness.
- Confirm the sensor body, which is often cylindrical or rectangular and secured with a single bolt or clip.
- Check for any brackets, hoses, or wiring that may be blocking your access before removing the sensor.
Common Symptoms Indicating Sensor Issues
When the camshaft position sensor on your Infiniti G35 begins to fail, the engine control module struggles to determine the exact position of the camshaft. This can lead to noticeable drivability problems that are often mistaken for fuel or ignition issues.
Drivers frequently report hard starting, especially when the engine is cold, as well as intermittent stalling while driving. The check engine light usually illuminates, and diagnostic scans may reveal camshaft correlation codes or misfire indicators that are not directly related to the spark plugs or coils.
Ignoring these symptoms can result in more severe timing errors, reduced power, and in some cases, the vehicle refusing to start at all. Addressing the sensor early can prevent unnecessary repairs to related components such as belts and tensioners.
Performance Impact and Diagnostics
The camshaft position sensor plays a key role in the precise timing of fuel injection and spark events. On the Infiniti G35, even slight misalignments caused by a faulty sensor can disrupt the carefully tuned balance between the crankshaft and camshaft rotations.
Technicians often use a scan tool to view live camshaft position data while cranking the engine. Comparing that data to the crankshaft position helps pinpoint whether the issue is mechanical, such as a stretched timing chain, or electrical, such as a failing sensor or wiring fault.
When replacing the sensor, it is wise to inspect the connector, clean any corrosion, and verify that the wiring harness is free from chafing. Proper diagnostics reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and improve long term reliability of the G35 engine.
Key Takeaways for G35 Owners
Understanding the camshaft position sensor location on your Infiniti G35 can save both time and money when maintenance becomes necessary.
- The sensor is positioned on the driver side cylinder head, near the timing belt area.
- Early diagnosis prevents more severe engine timing and performance issues.
- Use a scan tool to verify sensor data while cranking the engine.
- Inspect wiring and connectors during replacement to avoid recurring faults.
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for belts and sensors to maintain optimal performance.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where exactly is the camshaft position sensor located on my Infiniti G35?
The camshaft position sensor on an Infiniti G35 is located on the driver side cylinder head, near the timing belt cover and the valve cover junction. You will find the electrical connector and sensor body positioned adjacent to the camshaft sprocket area.
Can I replace the camshaft position sensor myself on a G35?
Yes, many owners with basic tools can replace the sensor, but it may require removing nearby components such as intake hoses or brackets. If the sensor is bolted behind the timing belt cover, professional assistance is recommended to avoid damaging the timing system.
What are the signs that my G35 camshaft position sensor is failing?
Common signs include hard starting, rough idle, intermittent stalling, poor acceleration, and the illumination of the check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes related to camshaft position or crankshaft correlation often accompany these symptoms.
How much does it typically cost to replace the camshaft position sensor on an Infiniti G35?
Parts and labor costs vary by region and year, but most shops charge a moderate hourly rate for the diagnosis and replacement. The parts price for the sensor itself is generally reasonable, especially when compared to more complex timing related repairs.