P0344 Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.

Causes

Common causes for this code include: 

• The Camshaft Position Sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced 
• The wiring connectors for the Camshaft Position Sensor are not fully seated or damaged
• There is a problem with the starter motor or weak/dead battery
• A short in any of the above system circuits

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P0344 code are:

• The Check Engine Light will come on indicating a problem with the system.
• The engine may turn and make noises but not startup.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P0344 DTC code, a technician would:

1. Turn the engine off and check the Camshaft Position Sensor wiring for a short or break in the wires. 

2. Check the crankshaft position sensor and wiring for a short or break in the wires.

3. Inspect the respective connectors and their terminals. 

Common mistakes

The following are common mistakes when diagnosing the trouble code P0180:

• A damaged wire is mistaken for a faulty Camshaft Position Sensor 
• A bad wire is mistaken for a faulty crankshaft position sensor
• A damaged connector is mistaken for a faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor

How serious is this?

A P0344 code can lead to several problems if not corrected. Since the CPS is used to control the timing of fuel injectors and ignition, a faulty one can result in misfires, lean running conditions, reduced power output, excessive carbon buildup on valves, and poor gas mileage. If there are no symptoms but the code is present there may be issues with the car's starting abilities due to possible damage including hard starting or failure to turn over at all.

If this code is left unresolved it will eventually lead to costly engine repairs.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

• Replace the Camshaft Position Sensor
• Check the wiring connectors and make sure they are fully seated 
• Make sure there is no damage to the wiring or connectors 
• Inspect all relevant connector terminals for damage 
• Check battery voltage and charging system for proper operation

Related codes

A P0344 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:

• P0340 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit
• P0341 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
• P0342 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage 
• P0343 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Voltage
• P0344 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent
• P0500 – Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

How much does it cost to fix the P0344 code?

The repair cost of a P0344 code varies from one vehicle make and model to another. Repair costs for this code can be as low as $50 or as high as $1,000 depending on the vehicle. On average, expect a P0344 repair cost of about $100 - $200.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P0344 code can be serious depending on the root cause. However, we hope with the help of this article, you will be able to more quickly and accurately diagnose the trouble code. The most common mistake technicians make is to replace parts thinking they are correcting the issue, when it may actually be a wiring or connector problem. Fortunately, using the steps outlined in this article should not lead down that road. This code should be diagnosed and fixed as soon as possible to avoid expensive repairs in the future. If the problem is a faulty Camshaft Position Sensor, it can be replaced very easily depending on your vehicle. For more serious problems that require additional parts and labor, expect to see a higher repair cost.