P0342
Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)
Get Your FREE AI Diagnostic Report
Enter your vehicle for a personalized diagnosis for code P0342
The P0342 code indicates that the camshaft position sensor on Bank 1 is sending a voltage signal that is below the minimum expected threshold. The camshaft position sensor works with the crankshaft position sensor to manage fuel injection and ignition timing. When the signal drops too low, the ECM may not be able to accurately determine camshaft position.
The most common cause is a failed sensor, but oil contamination is a frequently overlooked culprit. Many camshaft position sensors are mounted in areas where valve cover gasket leaks or other oil seeps can reach the electrical connector. Oil on the connector pins creates a path for the signal to short to ground, reducing the voltage the ECM sees. Simply cleaning the connector and fixing the oil leak may resolve the code without needing a new sensor.
This code can cause hard starting or no-start conditions in some vehicles, so it should be addressed promptly. If the engine starts and runs, you can safely drive to a repair shop, but be aware that stalling is possible. The sensor replacement itself is usually quick and inexpensive on most vehicles — often just one bolt and a connector — making it a great DIY repair for most car owners.
Severity
Symptoms
- •Engine is hard to start or won't start
- •Check Engine light is on
- •Engine stalls unexpectedly
- •Rough idle and poor engine performance
- •Engine misfires or hesitates during acceleration
- •Reduced fuel economy
Likely Causes
The CMP sensor has failed and is outputting a voltage below the ECM's minimum threshold, often due to heat damage or internal component failure.
An open circuit, short to ground, or corroded connection in the CMP sensor wiring is preventing the proper voltage signal from reaching the ECM.
Engine oil leaking onto the sensor connector or wiring is causing a low-resistance path to ground, pulling the signal voltage down.
A chipped, cracked, or debris-coated reluctor ring on the camshaft is not generating sufficient magnetic field changes to produce a proper signal.
The ECM's internal circuitry for reading the CMP sensor signal has degraded, causing it to interpret a normal signal as low input.
Estimated Cost
Professional Repair
Includes parts + labor
Common Fixes
- Replace the camshaft position sensor
- Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
- Clean oil contamination from the sensor and its connector
- Inspect and clean the reluctor ring
Shop Parts
Videos
How to fix P0342? | Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Low (Bank 1)
Car Fix
Causes and Fixes P0342 Code: Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Low
HVAC Mechanic