Ok.........I've hit 160k on my Jetta and, up until now, haven't had any major electrical engineproblems. A few months ago it gave me random problems starting, no sputtering, just wouldn't start....but after 5 minutes (10 or so trys) it started up. Last week it stalled out completely and left mestranded. After leaving it for an hour, it started up and got me home. It threw the Engine Speed Sensor code, random misfire codes, etc.......I replaced the Engine Speed Sensor (Crank Sensor) and it was fine this past week.........now all of a sudden this morning it wouldn't start again (but no check engine light)........I was told (local mechanic) toreplace the coil pack, wires, etc......butI was alsoconcerned that the Camshaft Positioning Sensor could be an issue which I understand to be more of a headache.

Anyone have some suggestions/hunches or a quick tutorial on how the Camshaft sensor/speed sensor work together? Much appreciated.

 

im really not that well versed in what youre asking. I'd suggest checking vwvortex and i agree with checking the coil packs...does it idle rough? what engine is in the jetta?

 

Try first to follow your local mechanic. He may be right. Volkswagen Jett parts are sometimes sensitive.
But if it won't work, try your concern about camshaft positioning sensor and here are some tips.

The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) could very well be the source of the noise. It is much like a distributor without the cap and rotor. Here is how to replace it. You will need a special tool to do it however.REMOVAL: CAUTION: Syncro Positioning Tool T96T-12200-A must be obtained prior to installation of the replacement synchronizer assembly. Failure to follow this procedure will result in the fuel system being out of time with the engine, possibly causing engine damage. CAUTION: Prior to the removal of the Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor, set No.1 cylinder to 0 degrees Top Dead Center (TDC) of compression stroke. Then note the position of the CMP sensor electrical connector. The installation procedure requires that the electrical connector be located in the same position. [ol][*]Disconnect battery ground cable. [/ol] NOTE: When battery voltage is removed from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), all learned values will be cleared and reset to predetermined values. When battery voltage is restored to the PCM, the vehicle may exhibit certain driveability concerns. It will be necessary to drive the vehicle to allow the PCM to relearn values for optimum driveability and performance. assembly and repeat Step 5. [*]Disconnect fuel charging wiring electrical connector from CMP sensor.[*]Remove the CMP sensor screws and sensor from camshaft synchronizer. [/ol] CAUTION: Do not move crankshaft until entire installation procedure is complete. Doing so will result in the fuel system being out of time with the engine resulting in possible emissions fault. NOTE: If camshaft synchronizer is to be removed from the cylinder block, proceed with Step 4 If the camshaft synchronizer is not being removed, proceed to Installation Step 8 assembly and repeat Step 5. [*]Remove hold-down clamp.[*]Remove camshaft synchronizer from cylinder block. [/ol]
Camshaft Synchronizer INSTALLATION: [ol][*]Attach Syncro Positioning Tool T96T-12200-A.[*]Align the synchronizer vane with the radial slot of the Syncro Positioning Tool T96T-12200A.[*]Rotate the tool on the synchronizer base until the tool's boss engages the base notch.[*]Dip gear end into ESE-M2C123-A oil or equivalent to coat gear, thrust washer and lower bearing. [/ol] CAUTION: Do not rotate crankshaft when Syncro positioning tool is on the camshaft synchronizer. Armature tab will be damaged and synchronizer timing may be shifted. [*]Install camshaft synchronizer into cylinder block making sure that arrow on Syncro Positioning Tool T96T-12200-A is pointing forward parallel to center line of crankshaft. This step will locate camshaft position sensor electrical connector to the pre-removal position. [/ol] [font="verdana"][size="2"]
[i]Syncro Positioning Tool

 

Thanks for the feedback. I plan to spend some more time researching this weekend. It's a 2.0 GLS. It doesn't idle rough, in fact, it runs great and I haven't felt/heard it miss at all (except once or twice when the crank sensor was failing,.....and I assumed that the other codes ie....Random Misfire were also a result of the Crank Sensor). It ran fine when I parked it the other day, I woke up the next morning and it just wouldn't start. I never got the impression the wires were bad (no signs of arching)andsince I replaced the Crank Sensor last week, no check engine lights.....I thought I was in the clear. I suppose it wouldn't be a huge investment to put a new coil pack, wires and plugs in. As far asI can remember the Coil pack has never been replaced. Last I checked the dealer sold the wirescheaper....yes I said it........cheaper than the aftermarket wires.!

Thanks again.

 

i think you are heading in the right direction! good luck!