P0345 Code: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction

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p0345 code displaying on an OBD-2 diagnostic tool

What You'll Read About

What does the P0345 code mean?

P0345 is a generic OBD-II trouble code, which means that the PCM has detected a malfunction in the camshaft position sensor circuit for bank 2 (the side of your engine with cylinder number 3).

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of a P0345 trouble code include:

  • Check the engine light illuminated on your dash console
  • Rough idle as well as poor performance that an illuminated check engine light may accompany
  • Misfire caused by an improper firing order for one or more cylinders

What are the possible causes of the P0345 code?

When troubleshooting a P0345 code, checking for a loose or damaged wiring harness is essential. This can cause the camshaft position sensor to malfunction and throw this code. Also, if you don’t have any other symptoms besides a check engine light with this particular trouble code, it could be caused by a bad ignition coil or crankshaft position sensor (CKP).

Diagnosis and Repair

  • Check for camshaft position sensor A circuit malfunction (bank 2).
  • Check for camshaft position sensor B circuit malfunction (bank 2).
  • Check for camshaft position sensor A circuit malfunction (bank 1).
  • Check for camshaft position sensor B circuit malfunction (bank 1).

How do I reset my camshaft sensor?

To reset a camshaft sensor, you typically need to clear the error codes stored in the engine control unit (ECU). First, disconnect the car’s battery for a few minutes and then reconnect it. Remember that resetting the sensor may not fix an underlying issue, and it’s recommended to consult a professional mechanic.

Takeaway

If you’re experiencing a P0345 code, the first thing to do is ensure it’s not related to an issue with your camshaft timing. If it is, we recommend having your vehicle serviced at a dealership or repair shop as soon as possible. If the problem isn’t related, there may be something wrong with either your camshaft position sensor A circuit or B bank 2 sensor itself.

FAQ

1. What kills camshaft sensor?

Several factors can contribute to the failure of a camshaft sensor.

  • Electrical issues, such as wiring problems or a faulty power supply
  • Mechanical problems, such as damage to the sensor itself or issues with the camshaft or timing chain/belt
  • Contaminants like dirt or oil can affect the sensor’s performance or lead to its failure.

2. Can a camshaft position sensor cause a misfire?

Yes, a malfunctioning or faulty camshaft position sensor can cause a misfire in an engine. The camshaft position sensor provides critical information to the engine control unit (ECU) about the camshaft position. 

This information determines the precise timing of fuel injection and ignition. If the camshaft position sensor is not functioning correctly or sending false signals, it can disrupt the engine’s timing, leading to misfires, rough running, or even engine stalling. Therefore, it’s essential to address any issues with the camshaft position sensor if misfires occur.