Physically broken camshaft position sensor

The check engine light on my 2006 V6 went on and, when I did OBDII disagnostics, it turned out I had P0348: Camshaft Position Sensor A.

I took the sensor out and it turned to be physically broken. You can see it here next to the other, proper one on the right.



It is easy to replace the sensor, which is on its way. However, I am worried for the following reasons:

1. Why did the sensor break like that? Or what broke it? Is it an indicator of a foreign object in the cylinder head lobe where it goes? Any speculations/guesses as to the reason? For example, on the day the light went on, we did drive on some really bad rural roads, almost 4 wheeling -- could it have broken from rough driving?
   
   
2. The broken off chips of the sensor can only be inside its cylinder head lobe, as it plugs into the engine right above the sprockets of the timing chain. How bad is it to have those plastic chips inside such a critical engine component? Should I open that cylinder head and clean it from the chunks or is it safe to assume they will be ground into shreds by the chain and other moving parts inside?
   

 

That is really odd... The only thing I could think of that would slap that would be a broken VVT Actuator or the timing chain. I think it would be well worth the effort to remove the valve cover and have a peek.

As far as the plastic is concerned, probably no real danger, but after you get the sensor sorted out it would be worth an oil & filter change.

 

OMG I just realized that you are the foampile of legend! LOL

 

Common heat damaged, replace and roll on

 

Hi there! did you find the cause of the damaged camshaft position sensor, Found the same issue with my 2nd Gen bank 1 Camshaft position sensor. Don't want to install new sensor if camshaft phaser is faulty. looking for some advice before I pull the valve covers off.

 

-J

 

Did your cam shaft gear cover snap

 

The legendary Foampile had not been seen in these parts since June of 2019. I don't think he's going to answer your question, nor TacomaGU's from over a year ago.

Classic Foampile.

 

Haha ok. Happened to a truck I'm looking to buy, and as a mechanic now I'm uncomfortable with it.

 

What made him legendary?

 

Look up his threads or questions. Quite the entertaining reads.

 

A quick review is all that’s needed