Replaced Camshaft Position Sensor But Still Get Code? Fix It

If there is any issue with the camshaft position sensor, you can easily replace it and fix it. But, the true problem arises when you notice that the error code is still on the dashboard even after changing the sensor. 

Generally you find these two codes P0340 and P0011 after replacing the camshaft position sensor. These error codes will stay for several reasons. 

So, in the article, you will know why the error code stays even after the sensor is replaced. Also, you will find some possible fixes that might help you eliminate the error codes.

What Error Codes Show by Camshaft Position Sensor Problems? 

After replacing the camshaft position sensor, you might notice a few error codes which indicate different issues. Here is the list of error codes you might get:

P0340: It means there is an issue with your vehicle’s Camshaft Position Sensor A circuit. The code indicates that the signal from the camshaft position sensor to the PCM is broken.

P0343: The code refers to the problem on “Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit High Bank 1 or Single Sensor.” This indicates the PCM has detected an issue with the sensor signal.

P0345: This code means that the bank two camshaft position sensor is sending an incorrect voltage reading.

P0011: The code indicates that the ECM/PCM of your vehicle cannot differentiate between the desired and the actual camshaft position angle. For this, it cannot reach its programming target, which the camshaft position sensor needs.

What Does P0340 Error Code Means?

Among all error codes related to camshaft position sensor P0340 is commonly occurs after replacing the sensor.

If you didn’t know already, the camshaft sensor is responsible for recording the speed and position of the camshaft when it rotates, as well as for synchronizing the ignition and firing of the coils.

Now, there are different modules inside the car that make use of the camshaft sensor. The Engine Control Module and the Power-train Control Module or PCM are two such users of the sensor.

When the aforementioned reading from the sensor is shady, the injection and ignition spark timing set by the PCM fails. This is when the PCM activates or stores P0340. This is one of the most common codes for a faulty sensor.

There is a similar code to the P0340, which is the P0345. When this code is triggered, the PCM again fails to create the correct injecting and ignition timing. The similarity between them is that both of them warn you that there is a problem with the electric circuit of the sensor.

But the difference is that while the P0345 code comes up when there is incorrect voltage reading, the P0340 comes up when there are issues with the control of the intake and exhaust valves.

Why Are You Still Getting Code After Replacing Camshaft Position Sensor?

You will usually get the P0340 and P0011 codes after replacing the camshaft position sensor. Here are common reasons why the error code stays:

  • Removing error codes and relearn process isn’t done yet
  • ECU is still coded with the old camshaft position sensor
  • Bad installation or defective new camshaft position sensor
  • Old O-ring isn’t removed from the camshaft sensor
  • Problem with the Electric Circuit or Wiring.
  • The Reluctor wheel is damaged or not functioning properly
  • Wear and stretch on the timing chain and guide plates
  • Faulty starter motor can cause the P0340 error code
  • A faulty PCM

How To Get Rid Of This Code? [ 7 Steps To Follow]

You know that the code stays due for several reasons. So, you need to inspect all the components that might cause the issue if you notice the code even after replacing the camshaft position sensor.

Here are a few possible fixes; you might try to fix the issue.

1: Relearn or recalibrate the sensor

Most of the time, after replacing the sensor, if you don’t relearn the sensor, the ECU might store the old sensor data, which causes throw the code. So, follow the below steps to relearn the camshaft position sensor:

Step 1: Turn on the vehicle and connect an OBD2 scanner tool. Turn on the scanner tool and select your vehicle brand and model. Or, select the Auto Detect option. It will automatically read your system. You can use the MaxiSys scanner tool to get better output.

Step 2: Go to the Diagnosis option and follow the image order below.

Step 3: Go to the “Special Function” option and the Cam crank relearn option. A new window will inform you when you should relearn the sensor. After reading it, select Ok.

Step 4: Then, the scanner will ask you to start the engine. Start the engine. Now, you must wait until the engine coolant temperature reaches what it requires. Accelerate the vehicle to increase the temperature. After reaching the required temperature, the vehicle will do the relearn process automatically.

Note: Dodge Jeep Chrysler used to show the process. The process will be almost the same for other vehicles.

2: Check the O-rings

You need to use two O-rings on the camshaft position sensor for proper functionality. One comes with the camshaft position sensor, and the other comes from the car manufacturer. 

The camshaft position sensor comes with an O-ring attached to the main component. But it looks like a plastic ridge. For this, many people think that the O-ring is missing, and they try to install the old o-ring in the new one, which creates an obstacle to proper installation and creates a gap that causes the issue.

If you put the old O-ring on the new one, you must remove it. Then, you need to use the original O-ring. Also, clean the O-ring before using it. 

3: Test and Fix Camshaft Position Sensor Wiring

If the relearning doesn’t fix the issue and still shows the code, it usually refers to the wiring that sends signals to the ECU that has a problem. For this, you need to test the camshaft position sensor wiring harness to find the defect and fix the issue.

The wiring section will vary according to vehicle brand. You need to follow the below order for proper inspection:

Analysis the wiring diagram: Generally, you will get three wires in the camshaft sensor. They come in different colors, which might differ from vehicle to vehicle. The wiring is known as the power supply, sensor signal, and sensor ground.

Sensor power supply test: Start testing with the power supply. For this, you need to use a multimeter. Set the multimeter with PIN 1 and check the voltage. If the voltage is around 5 amp, the circuit power supply works properly.

Sensor Ground circuit test: Check the continuity of the ground circuit between the sensor wiring harness and the ECM wiring harness with a multimeter. Also, ensure that continuity has existed. Otherwise, it means there is a problem with the ground circuit.

Sensor signal circuit test: You also need to check the continuity between the cam sensor and ECM harness connector. Continuity must be needed for proper functioning. 

If you find any of the wires are defective, you need to repair or replace them. If you haven’t any technical knowledge, take help from a professional.

4: Check the Reluctor wheel

If the above method doesn’t solve the issue, then you need to inspect the Reluctor wheel. After changing the camshaft position sensor, many people forget to adjust the sensor with the Reluctor wheel.

For this, you need to properly adjust the camshaft position sensor with the Reluctor wheel teeth. Most of the vehicle’s sensors align with the 20th teeth of the Reluctor wheel. Also, you need to inspect the Reluctor wheel to see whether any teeth are broken or not. 

5: Inspect timing chain

There are many mixed reactions among the professional mechanics that the timing chain is a cause of the error code. But, if the error codes stay even after checking the above component, you need to inspect the timing chain. 

If the timing chain is responsible for this problem, you need to replace it. Depending on the vehicle model, it will cost you around $200-$1000.

6: Inspect starter motor

The starter motor turns the engine over during ignition, allowing everything else to occur. If the starter motor face issues, it can hamper the signal transfer from the camshaft position sensor to the ECU. 

For this, you need to check the starter motor. If you find any malfunction on it, you need to repair or replace it.

7: Inspect ECU

The vehicle electronic control unit gets the signal from the camshaft position sensor. If the wiring sends the proper signal, you still get the code. It might occur due to the ECU malfunction.

For this, you need to check whether the ECU properly gathers the signal and distributes it to all other components. You need to repair the control unit if it fails to function properly to eliminate the code.

Important Note: Sometimes, the error codes stay even after changing the sensor due to the vehicle’s computer. It needs a couple of trips to satisfy that error is solved, and then the light automatically turns off.

FAQs

Can You Replace A Camshaft Position Sensor Yourself?

Yes, anyone with minimum technical knowledge can replace the camshaft position sensor.
If you do the process by yourself, it will not take more than 10 minutes. So, it’s a good decision to do the replacement part to save around $100 labor cost.

What Should You Do After Replacing The Camshaft Sensor?

After replacing the camshaft position sensor, you should cancel the error codes from the engine controller. For this, you should use a diagnostic scanner.
After erasing the error code, you should relearn the camshaft position sensor for proper functionality. 

How Much Does It Cost To Replace The Camshaft Position Sensor?

The replacement cost will vary according to vehicle brand and model and also your location.
Generally, you need to spend around $95 to $200 for the parts only. If you want to change it with professional help, it will cost about $70 to $100.

Can I Drive With A Camshaft Position Sensor Problem?

Though you can drive your vehicle with a camshaft position sensor malfunction, it will affect your engine components.
You will get poorer engine performance and fuel consumption. Also, due to the damaged camshaft, you might notice a misfire, loss of power, jerk, or other issues.

How Long Do Camshaft Position Sensors Last?

The camshaft position sensor is designed to last as long as the vehicle lasts. But, most of the time, you need to replace it before its expected life.
The reason is that the camshaft position sensor takes a lot of abuse because the engine produces heat.

Conclusion

You can easily change the camshaft position sensor, but the problem occurs when the code still stays even after changing the sensor. It can cause various reasons, so you need to inspect and fix them.

I hope my above guide will help you know the reason, and some possible fixes will help you eliminate the codes.

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