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Mercury Sable

Report: Camshaft Sensor Magnet may Damage Synchronizers

Mercury Sable Problem
17 Reports

Model Years Affected: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Engine Affected: 3.0L V6

Average Mileage: 99,068 mi (30,000 mi - 172,341 mi)

Verified

The magnet for the camshaft position sensor may fall out of its mount and damage the synchronizers. This causes long crank times when starting the engine and may cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate. If this happens, both the magnets and the synchronizers need to be replaced.

  • Report #1
    Profile_thumbnail
     Rookie

    The "Check Engine Soon" light on the dash illuminated, and I took it to my local mechanic (ASE Certified) who told me about the sensor. He stated it could only be repaired by a dealer because a special tool was required & was available only to dealers. The dealer wanted to charge me almost $800.00 for this repair - the exact same repair I had done about 7 years ago for $229.00, parts and labor!

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  • Report #2
    Visitor, 1996 Mercury Sable, 3.0L V6, 71,000 mi

    The magnet on top inside of the CPS Camshaft Position Sensor broke off causing damage to the "tooth" part of the Camshaft Synchronizer and actually braking the cap or CPS in half. The check engine light did come on and report error code P0340. Both the CPS and Synchronizer needed replacement. While it can be a chore to get to this buried part (figuring it out can be harder than actual work) the actual replacement is a breeze, but you have to be careful about replacement. Apparently you only need the special tool if you don't pay specific attention to 1)placement of the "tooth" within the synchronizer and 2) placement of the synchronizer casing into the block. Taking pictures and marking the parts for exact placement is highly recommended. Other than this it is just one bolt. You can find taurus user forums with detailed instructions. Oh, I've heard the Dorman part has been known to fail VERY quickly - people have highly recommended either Motorcraft or A1 Cardone. This also fixes a chirping sound that occurs when the synchronizer fails on its own at which time it is very important to change as this can affect oil circulation.

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  • Report #3
  • Report #4
    Profile_thumbnail
     Rookie

    camshaft synchronizer causing cam sensor to provide ECM with erractic readings r&r synchronizer assembly with new cam sensor

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  • Report #5
    Visitor, 2003 Mercury Sable, 3.0L V6, 30,000 mi
  • Report #6
    Visitor, 1997 Mercury Sable, 3.0L V6, 120,000 mi
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