Camshaft position sensor circuit bank 2

P0345 code definition

The P0345 code indicates that the car’s computer has detected an incorrect voltage reading from the bank 2 camshaft position sensor.

What the P0345 code means

In order to ensure proper engine timing and correct fuel delivery for driving conditions, your car’s computer needs information about camshaft position and speed. This is delivered by using a stationary electromagnet (camshaft position sensor) in conjunction with teeth on the shaft. As the teeth move in front of the sensor, the signal is blocked, creating a pattern. This pattern is sent to the car’s computer and used to help determine engine timing and fuel delivery. If it is incorrect, then the car’s computer will set the P0345 code.

What causes the P0345 code?

A number of potential causes exist for the P0345 code. They include the following:

  • Contamination of the sensor by engine oil or transmission fluid
  • Broken teeth
  • Wiring damage
  • Corroded or loose connections
  • Failed camshaft position sensor A (usually due to fluid contamination)
  • Failed crankshaft position sensor
  • Failed PCM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P0345 code?

It is possible you may experience on or more of a range of different symptoms with the P0345 code. These include the following:

  • No start
  • Reduced engine performance
  • Delayed engine starting (slow start)
  • Rough idling
  • Hesitant acceleration

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0345 code?

In order to diagnose the underlying problem, a mechanic will first read the codes stored in the car’s computer with an OBD II scanner. Those codes will then be cleared and the vehicle will be test driven (unless a no start condition exists). The technician will verify that the codes reset, and that they can duplicate the driver’s complaints.

Next, the mechanic should inspect the crankshaft position sensor circuit, including the wiring harness and the connections. Again, exposure to engine oil or transmission fluid can cause deterioration and damage. Any damaged wiring will need to be repaired or replaced, and any loose or corroded connections will need to be repaired.

If this does not remedy the problem, the mechanic will need to inspect the crankshaft position sensor itself. Fluid contamination can cause failure in these sensors, and if oil or transmission fluid has coated it, the sensor will need to be replaced.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0345 code

One of the most common mistakes made is replacing the camshaft position sensor when the problem is actually in the circuit, instead. In addition, this is one area where the quality of a replacement part matters greatly. Mechanics should use OEM-quality camshaft position sensor replacements.

How serious is the P0345 code?

The P0345 code is actually very serious, as it can lead to no start situations that might leave you stranded. Even in a best-case scenario, you will experience reduced performance and fuel mileage. Having the problem diagnosed immediately and repaired correctly is very important.

What repairs can fix the P0345 code?

The actual repairs needed will vary depending on the underlying cause of the code. However, they include the following:

  • Replacing the crankshaft position sensor
  • Repairing or replacing damaged wiring
  • Repairing loose connections
  • Identification and repair of fluid leaks

It is very important that mechanics understand while crankshaft position sensors fail, the actual problem is more often related to the wiring harness or the connections. These should be inspected first before the sensor is replaced to ensure that the customer is not paying for a repair that will not actually solve their problem. It is also highly recommended that fluid leaks causing damage to the sensor’s circuit are identified and repaired.

Need help with a P0345 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light

trouble codes

P0345

What Does Engine Code P0345 Mean?

  • P0345 Technical Definition: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)
  • P0345 Meaning: Camshaft Position Sensor is not working properly
  • Most common cause: Dirty or bad camshaft position sensor
  • Risks for the engine/driver: Medium Get your car checked out  as soon as possible
  • Emissions severity: HIGH. The car won’t pass emissions testing
  • Estimated repair time: 1-2 days
  • Estimated repair cost: $100-200

The OBD2 data trouble code P0345 is stored in memory when the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) detects that the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) readings are outside the expected voltage range/pattern. This code refers to engine bank 2, in other words, the bank not containing cylinder #1.

The Camshaft Position Sensor is an important component for both the fuel delivery system and the ignition system. It’s job, is reporting, in real time, the position of the camshaft and thus the intake valve timing. 

Depending on the vehicle programming, the CMP information can be used by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to determine “when” it needs to trigger the corresponding fuel injector (intake valve opening) but also could be used in conjunction with the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) to determine the spark timing.

 As you may guess, the CMP data is of great significance for a timely fuel/spark timing. Technically speaking, the CMP is usually based on the Hall-Effect design consisting of a toothed wheel attached or part of the cam itself and a stationary electromagnet that also holds the Hall-Effect sensor.

As the wheel rotates a voltage pattern is generated similar to a square wave. The cylinder #1 intake valve opening position is usually recognized by using a distinctive tooth normally wider than the rest. That way the ECU uses the wave pattern to identify each valve position and define the appropriate fuel/ignition timing.

The P0345 code is triggered when the ECU detects a significative variation on the expected voltage pattern, or when the signal is intermittent.

7 Common Symptoms When Code P0345 is Present

  1. Check Engine Light (CEL) lit.
  2. Difficulty during engine start, in many cases even a no start condition.
  3. Poor fuel economy.
  4. Rough idle.
  5. Noticeable engine hesitation during acceleration.
  6. Gas smell from the exhaust pipe.
  7. Possible engine misfire.

Possible Causes For Error Code P0345

The most common causes of engine trouble code P0345 are:

  • CMP sensor wiring (open, shorted, burnt) 
  • CMP sensor connector (loosely, corroded, disconnected or bent pins)
  • Dirty or clogged CMP sensor (oil, metal debris)
  • Bad CMP sensor

How To Diagnose The Engine Code P0345

For the purpose of this article, it’s assumed that you have a basic knowledge of safety precautions while working on your vehicle.

Always refer to the appropriate OEM literature when possible. Original manufacturer diagnostic procedures should always have precedence over a generic workflow.

That said, let’s start the diagnostic process!

1. Preliminary steps

To discard a possible intermittent DTC condition, you’ll need to clear the ECU memory and complete a driving cycle.

  • Read data trouble codes and take note of them.
  • Clear data trouble codes memory.
  • Perform a driving cycle (at least 5-10 minutes).

In case the Check Engine Light stays off then you may have an intermittent problem. If the light lit during your driving cycle then continue with the diagnostic process.

2. Visual Inspection

> CMP condition: to inspect the CMP condition you will need to remove it from the vehicle. Usually, the Camshaft Position Sensor is located on the valve cover, in this case, engine bank 2 cover. Look for oil, dirt and/or metal debris attached to its magnetic tip. Clean the sensor with extreme care and re-install it on the vehicle. Repeat step 1 to check if the problem is solved.

> CMP Sensor wiring and connector: perform a meticulous visual inspection of the Camshaft Position Sensor wiring and connectors. Look for burnt, damaged, corroded or deteriorated wires, also unplug the sensor and look for bent terminal pins, loosely connections, corrosion or any other possible indication of a bad connection.

Fix any wiring problem before continuing.

3. Electrical Tests

> CMP electrical tests: due to this sensor importance you should perform a comprehensive electrical test including continuity, reference voltage, ground, and supply voltage. Refer to the appropriate OEM literature in order to perform these tests. 

4. Scan Tool Tests

> Camshaft Position Sensor live test: depending on your vehicle and automotive scanner, you could be able to perform a CMP “live test”. First, enter in KOEO mode and lock the CMP sensor related data on the display. Once you are ready, start the engine to enter KOER mode.

If your scan tool has a graphing ability turn it on. Graph engine RPM and CMP output at the same time. Gently accelerate and decelerate the engine. You should see a square pattern coming from the CMP sensor, the frequency will vary depending on engine RPM.

5. Oscilloscope Tests

> Camshaft Position Sensor live test: the most efficient and accurate way to test any Hall-Effect sensor is using an oscilloscope. Locate the signal output wire from the CMP connector and connect one oscilloscope probe to it. Connect a second probe to a known ground (battery negative terminal is a good one). 

  • Your vehicle starts: start your engine. Adjust your oscilloscope vertical and horizontal scales until you can see the square pattern. Take note of the pattern and compare it with the appropriate OEM literature. If you notice intermittent signals or non-square patterns then you may have a faulty sensor.
  • Your vehicle cannot start: in case your vehicle is suffering from a no start condition then keep the starter motor running while you adjust the scale. If no signal is detected you may have a bad CMP sensor and/or (less likely) a broken tooth in the camshaft.

How To Repair Error Code P0345

Depending on the diagnostics results you may need to do the following:

  • Repairing the CMP sensor wiring and/or connectors.
  • Cleaning the CMP sensor
  • Replacing the CMP sensor
  • Replacing the camshaft

What does camshaft position sensor A circuit Bank 2 mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0345 stands for “Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit (Bank 2).” This code refers to an issue in the camshaft position sensor (CMP) circuit of the engine's bank 2, which is the bank not containing cylinder #1.

What side is camshaft position sensor bank 2?

Registered. There's two cam sensors. One of the drivers rear of the head, the other on the passenger rear of the head. it's bank two, which is typically cylinders 2&4 which is the drivers side.

How do I fix error code P0345?

What repairs can fix the P0345 code?.
Replacing the crankshaft position sensor..
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring..
Repairing loose connections..
Identification and repair of fluid leaks..