P0345
Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)
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The P0345 code indicates a malfunction in the camshaft position sensor circuit on Bank 2. This code only appears on engines with a V-configuration (V6, V8, etc.) where Bank 2 is the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder number 1. The ECM has detected that the sensor signal is missing, erratic, or otherwise faulty.
The camshaft position sensor is critical for proper fuel injection timing and, on variable valve timing engines, for controlling the cam phasers. When the Bank 2 CMP sensor circuit fails, the ECM loses its ability to precisely time fuel injection and ignition events on that bank, leading to rough running, misfires, and starting problems.
A common mistake when diagnosing P0345 is immediately replacing the sensor without checking for oil contamination of the connector or wiring damage. Oil leaking from a valve cover gasket is one of the leading causes of this code on many V6 and V8 engines. If you replace the sensor without fixing the oil leak, the code will likely return. Also, if this code appears alongside P0340 (Bank 1), it may indicate a more systemic issue like an ECM fault or a timing chain problem affecting both banks.
Severity
Symptoms
- •Engine is hard to start or cranks for a long time
- •Check Engine light is on
- •Engine stalls at idle or during deceleration
- •Rough idle and uneven engine running
- •Reduced power and poor acceleration
- •Engine misfires, especially on Bank 2 cylinders
Likely Causes
The Bank 2 CMP sensor has failed due to heat exposure, age, or oil contamination, sending no signal or a garbled signal to the ECM.
Broken, corroded, or shorted wiring in the Bank 2 CMP sensor circuit is preventing proper communication between the sensor and ECM.
An oil leak from a valve cover gasket or other source has reached the sensor connector, causing a short or signal degradation.
A stretched or jumped timing chain on Bank 2 has altered the camshaft position relative to the crankshaft, causing the sensor to report unexpected readings.
The engine control module has an internal fault affecting its ability to process the Bank 2 CMP sensor signal.
Estimated Cost
Professional Repair
Includes parts + labor
Common Fixes
- Replace the Bank 2 camshaft position sensor
- Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
- Fix oil leaks and clean contaminated connectors
- Inspect timing chain for stretch or misalignment
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Videos
Causes and Fixes Ford P0345 Code: Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 2)
HVAC Mechanic
Causes and Fixes P0345 Code: Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 2)
HVAC Mechanic