P0345 DTC Decoded: Camshaft Position Sensor

Here's what Ford DTC code P0345 means for you.

Code Meaning: Camshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit Bank 2

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light is ON
  • Loss of power
  • Stalling of engine

Causes

  • Camshaft position sensor is faulty
  • Short or open in the Camshaft position sensor harness
  • VTC solenoid
  • Starter motor is faulty
  • Problem with the starting system circuit
  • Bad battery

Description

The ECM does not detect the camshaft position sensor signal within the first few seconds of the engine being cranked.

In some models, a weak starter or a low battery can cause this code.

What The Tech Says

The engine control module (ECM) relies upon the camshaft position sensor to determine the rate of the camshaft's rotation. The ECM uses this information to determine the ignition timing and to control fuel injection.

Camshafts 
Your engine computer needs to know how fast the camshaft(s) is spinning in order to match up ignition timing and fuel injection with the opening and closing of valves. The camshaft position sensor is the crux of this system.


The sensor functions by reading the speed of a rotating disc using a (fairly) simple electromagnetic principle. However, if the sensor has trouble reading the disc (perhaps due to damage or normal degradation), or if the sensor becomes dirty, it can cause the ECM to go into "limp" mode, severely reducing the performance of your vehicle. A faulty or intermittent problem with the cam position sensor can very easily leave you stranded.

The good news is that this issue is relatively easy to fix. Check to make sure the sensor is properly connected, and if it is, it's probably a good idea to replace it (only you should always work through the full diagnostic process before you spend money on a new part).

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