If your 2017 Ford Explorer is struggling to start, idling rough, or losing power for just a second, the culprit might be a small, crucial component: the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP).
This sensor is the engine's "eye"—it tells the computer the exact position of the camshaft so it can fire the fuel injectors and ignition at the perfect moment [00:58]. When it fails, your Explorer loses its sense of timing, and you feel the chaos.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: the symptoms, the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and the exact location of the sensor so you can fix it right and get back on the road.
1. What a Failing Sensor Feels Like: Symptoms to Watch For
A failing Ford Explorer Camshaft Position Sensor will give you clear warnings. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to investigate further [01:20]:
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Hard Starting or Long Cranks: The engine takes much longer than normal to fire up.
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Rough Idle and Random Stalling: The engine struggles to maintain a steady RPM, especially when stopped at a light.
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Hesitation/Stuttering: You feel a temporary loss of power or hesitation when you step on the gas pedal.
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Decreased Fuel Economy: Since the timing is off, the engine is less efficient.
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The Check Engine Light: The most obvious sign that something is wrong with the engine's timing.
2. The Codes: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
If your Check Engine Light is on, plugging in an OBD2 code scanner is the fastest way to confirm the issue. When the Camshaft Position Sensor is malfunctioning, you may see one of the following codes [01:49]:
Seeing any of these codes means the computer is receiving incorrect, intermittent, or missing signals from the sensor.
3. Location: Finding the Sensors on Your Explorer
The 2017 Ford Explorer uses two Camshaft Position Sensors—one for each cylinder bank.
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Pop the Hood: Remove the plastic engine cover to gain access [02:18].
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Bank One (Front): The first sensor is located at the front of the engine on the right (passenger) side [02:25].
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Bank Two (Rear): The second sensor is located at the rear of the engine on the right (passenger) side [02:32].
Each sensor is held in place by a single 8mm bolt and secured by a quick disconnect electrical plug. You will need a flashlight to spot them on the timing cover, as the space can be a little tight [02:39].
🎥 Watch the Video Guide!
See exactly where these sensors are and how to perform a quick diagnosis in our official video guide:
WATCH THE YOUTUBE VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/0S-lGT_F6sk
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Before you spend money on parts, you need to confirm the fault. A professional diagnostic reader will allow you to view the live data from the camshaft and crankshaft sensors to literally watch the readings drop out [03:02].
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