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.
Definition
P0345 is an OBD-II Code that refers to Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)
Meaning
A P0345 code is a generic diagnostic trouble code which means there is an issue with the Camshaft Position Sensor A and has happened to have a Circuit Malfunction on Bank 2.
Your automobile’s computer requires data on camshaft position and speed in order to guarantee proper engine timing and fuel delivery for driving conditions. This is accomplished using a stationary electromagnet (camshaft position sensor) and it’s teeth on the shaft. When the teeth pass in front of the sensor, a signal is blocked, resulting in a pattern. It’s used by the car’s computer to help determine engine timing and fuel delivery. If it’s wrong, the car’s computer will set the P0345 code.
Causes
Common causes for this code include:
- A starter motor that is not working
- Starting system short circuit
- Malfunctioning Camshaft Position Sensor
- Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- The camshaft position sensor connector is faulty or open
- Dead (Weak) battery
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P0345 code are:
- Engine or service light ON
- Misfiring or rough running
- Engine power is lost
- No start or hard starting
- Engine stall
Also Read: What Happens When a Camshaft Sensor Goes Bad
Diagnosis
To diagnose a P0345 DTC code, a technician would:
- Scan for codes in the ECM and look at the freeze frame data for failure data and engine running data
- Check for continuity in the Camshaft Position Sensor circuit, and pin signal on ECM
- Test starter motor to see if it’s outputting acceptable power
- Examine the connection of CMP sensor harness at the connections and repair if required.
- Visually inspect all wiring/connections for camshaft position sensor
- Check the resistance of the CMP Sensor
- If there is a problem with this circuit then repair it.
- If there’s no issue found, replace Camshaft Position Sensor.
Common mistakes
The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a P0345 code:
- Not properly identifying the cause of the problem when using Freeze Frame Data
- Not verifying all wiring/connections are intact and repair if necessary
- Not checking the resistance of the CMP Sensor
- Not checking the continuity of the CMP Sensor Circuit
- Not verifying that the starter is functioning properly
How serious is this?
A P0345 code is considered to be a medium risk code. It’s unlikely to cause damage, but it will cause the engine not to run properly and therefore will affect performance.
What repairs can fix the code?
The following are solutions that may fix this problem:
- Fluid leaks are readily identified and dealt with
- Connections that are loose need to be tightened
- Wiring that has been damaged or needs to be replaced
- Replacing the crankshaft sensor position
Related codes
A P0345 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes: P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, P0308, and/or P030X
Conclusion
In conclusion, the P0345 code is a diagnostic trouble code that refers to the Camshaft Position Sensor. It occurs when a circuit problem is recognized with the Camshaft Position Sensor or it’s wiring/connections. In most cases this code will cause no start, misfire and stalling symptoms until it is repaired.