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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)

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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.
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