What is the role of a camshaft in a car?

The camshaft is the core component of the engines valve train, primarily responsible for precisely controlling the opening and closing of the valves to ensure efficient engine operation.

The camshaft works by using the cam lobes on the shaft to push the valve mechanism (rocker arm or pushrod), opening or closing the intake and exhaust valves according to a set timing and lift, allowing the fuel-air mixture to enter the cylinder and exhaust gases to be discharged.

Camshaft design directly affects engine performance:
Optimizes valve timing, improves intake and exhaust efficiency, and enhances power output;
Affects fuel economy; reasonable valve opening and closing timing can reduce fuel consumption;
Reduces emissions; precisely controls the combustion process and reduces exhaust pollution.

Modern engines often use overhead camshaft (OHC/DOHC) designs, and some high-performance models are equipped with variable valve timing (VVT) systems to further improve power and fuel efficiency.