Home
/
Articles
/
Automotive
/
4 Camshaft Functions You Need to Know in Cars!

4 Camshaft Functions You Need to Know in Cars!

26 March 2026 | MyProtection News Jakarta

The presence of a camshaft in a car allows the engine to control the timing of the intake and exhaust valves, which regulate the entry of air and fuel as well as the release of exhaust gases. This process significantly improves both performance and efficiency.

However, many people are still unfamiliar with the functions of this crucial engine component.

In this article, we will discuss some of the most important camshaft functions that you may not know about. Let’s dive in!

4 Camshaft Functions You Need to Know in Cars!

The camshaft in a car is one of the key components in the combustion process and helps maintain engine efficiency. So, what are the main functions of a camshaft in a car? Here’s the explanation!

1. Opening and Closing Valves According to the Firing Order

The first function of the camshaft is to open and close the valves in accordance with the firing order.

On the camshaft, the part responsible for this process is called the cam lobe, which comes in two shapes, which is a round section that closes the valve and an elongated section that presses the valve open.

2. Rotating the Distributor Shaft

Another function of the camshaft is to rotate the distributor's shaft, depending on the type of engine used. This is usually located in the ignition system.

As the camshaft rotates, it sends signals to the distributor's shaft, causing it to rotate and perform its function accordingly.

3. Driving the Fuel Pump

In addition to controlling the valves, the camshaft also serves to drive the fuel pump in certain vehicles.

This function specifically applies to cars that still use mechanical fuel pumps. In older engine systems, the mechanical fuel pump relies on the camshaft’s motion to deliver fuel to the carburetor.

This mechanism ensures a steady fuel supply so that the engine can run properly.

However, with advancements in automotive technology, this system has largely been replaced. Most modern cars now use electric fuel pumps powered by electricity, eliminating the need for direct camshaft operation.

Electric fuel pumps are considered more efficient, practical, and better suited for modern fuel injection systems.

Therefore, the camshaft’s role as a driver for mechanical fuel pumps is mostly relevant to older vehicles, while modern systems rely on electric pumps.

4. Sensor Point for Rotation Detection

The final function of the camshaft is to serve as a sensor point to detect its rotations.

This role allows the camshaft to accurately determine rotation angles, ensuring smooth operation without causing defects or damage to other engine components.

With this function, engine performance becomes more precise, as each movement is detected with accuracy.

However, not every car engine uses this feature. This function is typically found in engines with EFI or Electronic Fuel Injection technology.

In EFI engines, the camshaft is specially designed with a reference gear that integrates with a blade sensor.

This design enables the camshaft to work with the sensor to automatically determine its position and rotation angle.

The mechanism is simple yet highly effective. The engine’s gears help the camshaft detect each rotation angle precisely. As the camshaft turns, the sensor reads the gear movement and ensures accurate rotational data.

This information is then used by the EFI system to regulate fuel injection and ignition timing.

As a result, the camshaft sensor function not only ensures precise rotation but also enhances overall engine efficiency and performance.

*PT Lippo General Insurance Tbk is licensed and supervised by Financial Services Authority (OJK)

Was this article helpful?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Click subscribe to subscribe to our article newsletter
Share MyPro on
facebook
twitter
instagram
About MyProtection News Jakarta
MyProtection is one of the pioneer portals for purchasing health insurance and general insurance online which can be accessed via website and application platforms since 2017.
Recommended Articles
Automotive
5 mins read 21/01/2026
The Function of Car Brake Pads and When to Replace Them

Car brake pads are one of the most vital components in the braking system. Their main function is to create friction with the brake disc, allowing the vehicle to stop or slow down.

Because of this crucial role, it’s important to check your car’s brake pads regularly to ensure optimal performance and maintain driving safety.

Here’s a complete guide about the car brake pads to help you better understand how they work, their types, and how to check them properly.

How Car Brake Pads Work

To understand how brake pads work and function within the braking system, here’s the process:

  • When the brake pedal is pressed, the pressure is transmitted through the brake fluid to the caliper.

  • The caliper then pushes the brake pads against both sides of the brake disc, which rotates with the wheels.

  • This creates friction against the wheel’s rotation, causing the vehicle to slow down and stop.

Types of Car Brake Pads

  • Semi-Metallic, known for durability and excellent heat transfer. These brake pads are usually made from synthetic organic materials mixed with processed metals, giving them high heat resistance.

  • Organic, made from a blend of resin, carbon, glass, rubber, and other materials. Vehicles using this type are typically free from squeaking sounds. However, regular inspections are needed to ensure the pads don’t wear out completely.

  • Non-Asbestos Organic or NAO, offers better performance compared to brake pads that are made of metal. They provide reliable performance and improved safety while driving.

  • Ceramic, considered the best performing type, is often found in luxury cars due to its higher price. Ceramic brake pads don’t leave residue or produce annoying noises, making them highly efficient.

kampas rem mobil

How to Check Car Brake Pads

Generally, the right time to replace car brake pads is when you hear a squeaking or squealing sound during braking.

The physical condition of the brake pads can also indicate when they need replacement. That’s why it’s highly recommended to check their condition regularly.

Most disc brake pads are equipped with a thin metal plate that serves as a wear indicator.

When this small plate rubs against the brake disc, it produces a squeaking sound as a warning sign.

If the plate is already touching the brake disc, it means the brake pads must be replaced immediately.

Before replacing them, make sure the caliper and brake disc are cleaned properly to avoid dirt buildup, such as debris or residue from worn brake pads.

This step is essential to optimize braking performance, especially since dirt mixed with water can disrupt the braking process.

That’s the complete discussion about car brake pads, including their function, how they work, different types, how to check them, and the right time for replacement. Hope it helps!

*PT Lippo General Insurance Tbk is licensed and supervised by Financial Services Authority (OJK)

Read Article
All Category
5 mins read 26/05/2020
5 Tanda Metabolisme Tubuh Bermasalah

Jakarta, 26 Mei 2020 - MyProtection News

Hi, Sahabat MyProtection!

Ketika Anda makan, metabolisme tubuh akan berperan untuk mengubah makanan yang masuk ke tubuh menjadi energi. Sehingga Anda memiliki tenaga untuk beraktivitas sehari-hari.

Proses metabolisme dalam tubuh biasanya akan berkurang seiring dengan bertambahnya usia. Salah satu dampak dari menurunnya proses metabolisme tubuh adalah penambahan berat badan. Selain usia, ada gejala lain yang menandakan bahwa metabolisme dalam tubuh bermasalah dan harus segera di atas. Berikut ini lima gejala yang mungkin Anda alami.

  1. Berat badan selalu bertambah walau sudah jaga pola makan

Salah satu tanda bahwa metabolism dalam tubuh bermasalah adalah berat badan terus bertambah walaupun Anda sudah mengatur pola makan. Apalagi jika makanan yang Anda konsumsi cenderung rendah lemah atau rendah gula. Walaupun memang metabolism akan melambat seiring bertambahnya usia, jika Anda mencurigai penambahan berat badan tak normal, segera berkonsultasi dengan dokter atau ahli gizi.

  1. Selalu kedinginan

Proses metabolisme, selain menghasilkan energi, juga menghasilkan panas alami dalam tubuh. Jika Anda merasa lebih mudah atau sering merasa kedinginan daripada biasanya, maka bisa jadi Anda mengalami gangguan metabolisme.

  1. Merasa sangat lelah

Ada banyak hal yang bisa membuat Anda lelah. Misalnya olahraga secara intens, kurang tidur, atau kegiatan fisik lainnya yang membuat tubuh harus banyak bergerak. Namun, jika Anda merasa lebih mudah lelah, mungkin saja proses metabolisme dalam tubuh tidak mengubah asupan makanan menjadi energi secara sempurna.

  1. “Ngidam” makanan manis dan bertepung

Tubuh sering kali mengirimkan sinyal kepada tubuh lewat rasa “ngidam” atau cravings. Contohnya jika Anda sering “ngidam” atau menginginkan makanan manis dan bertepung padahal asupan gizi & istirahat harian telah tercukupi. Kemungkinan asupan gizi dari makanan yang Anda konsumsi tidak terserap secara efektif sehingga Anda terus menerus memiliki hasrat untuk makan, khususnya yang mengandung gula dan tepung.

  1. Kulit dan rambut tiba-tiba kering

Penampilan luar tubuh merupakan cerminan dari kesehatan dalam tubuh. Ketika metabolisme tubuh terganggu, proses perbaikan sel kulit dan rambut tidak bekerja secepat biasanya. Sehingga kulit dan rambut terasa kering. Namun gejala ini juga bisa disebabkan asupan gizi yang buruk.

Salam,
Sahabat MyProtection

Read Article
All Category
5 mins read 29/04/2020
Cegah Panas Dalam Saat Berpuasa

Jakarta, 29 Maret 2020 - MyProtection News

Ketika berpuasa, ada berbagai tantangan yang bisa kita hadapi. Salah satunya menahan rasa lapa dan haus. Tubuh pun rentan mengalami kekurangan cairan dan nutrisi tubuh karena waktu makan terbatas. Gangguan kesehatan yang lazim terjadi saat berpuasa adalah panas dalam.

Aswin Pramono, dokter ahli penyakit dalam dari RS Carolus Jakarta menyatakan bahwa panas dalam bisa berhubungan dengan kekurangan cairan tubuh. Apalagi jika asupan hidrasi tidak dipenuhi ketika buka puasa dan tubuh.

Ketika tubuh panas dalam akibat dehidrasi saat berpuasa maka efek yang bisa dirasakan adalah demam ringan, air liur kering, kelenturan kulit terganggu serta bibir pecah-pecah. Jika dibiarkan terus menerus, tubuh akan mudah terserang flu dan penyakit lainnya.

Oleh karena itu penting untuk minum air putih yang cukup, bahkan saat puasa. Triknya adalah minum segelas air putih saat berbuka & setelah salat magrib. Dilanjutkan 2 gelas air putih setelah berbuka atau makan besar. Lalu 1 gelas air putih setelah tarawih dan 1 gelas lagi sebelum tidur. Kemudian Anda bisa meminum segelas air putih saat sahur dan 2 gelas air putih seusai sahur. Pastikan Anda minum setidaknya 8 gelas atau 2 liter air putih sesuai kebutuhan dan kondisi tubuh.

Anda juga bisa mengonsumsi beberapa makanan saat panas dalam mulai menyerang. Contohnya seperti jeruk yang kaya vitamin C, buah pisang untuk memperlancar pencernaan, susu & yoghurt yang bernutrisi. Berbagai buah-buahan ini bisa Anda olah menjadi takjil atau jus agar tak membosankan.

Salam,
Sahabat MyProtection

Read Article