B5 A4 1.8T Cam timing question, camshaft sensor fault

Can this sensor fail or begin to fail without creating a fault? Could a failing sensor cause erratic timing corrections, in particular during high load, low rpm sub 3k scenarios primarily in 1st and 2nd gear? Trying to hunt down the cause for these timing corrections. Upon clutch release and initial load increase, the ECU is pulling max timing 11 to 12*. It will also pull upwards of 10* if load is greater than 50% below 3k rpm. The lower the RPM, the worse the timing pull. Mechanical timing is confirmed good and the VVT tensioner is fairly new. This is a 1.8t B5 A4.

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Audi A4 1.8T Volkswagen Camshaft Position Sensor | Golf, Jetta, Passat & Beetle | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

[Casey at Pelican Parts]

Yes the sensor can fail without logging a fault.

- Casey