DTC P0340 Code – Meaning, Causes, and Fixes

A failure with the camshaft position sensor A circuit is indicated by error code P0340. Because the underlying issue that caused the code can harm your car’s engine if you keep driving it, this kind of malfunction might result in major problems that need to be fixed right away.

The camshaft position sensor circuit’s electrical wiring is malfunctioning, according to code P0340.

Numerous other codes that are directly related to the camshaft of your car may also appear as a result of this problem. Additionally, there’s a chance that the PCM in your powertrain is harmed.

Replacing the camshaft position sensor alone won’t always fix your problems because there could be several other issues with your car in this circumstance. What is the camshaft position sensor, and why does error code P0340 show along with so many other DTCs?

The engine’s camshaft rotational speed is monitored by the camshaft position sensor. Additionally, when the shaft is rotating, a calculation is made that sends a signal to the PCM. The timing for the fuel injection and ignition systems is then set by the PCM using the data.

The timing of the engine may be thrown off if the camshaft position sensor’s signal is interfered with. As a result, the driver will have performance problems with their car, including misfiring.

The P0340 code is logged by the PCM, which frequently causes the display of further P034X codes and even codes from P0011 to P0019 or P0335 to P0339. The check engine light will turn on for any of these codes, alerting the driver to a problem.

Error codes P034X are categorized as general powertrain codes. All makes and models produced beginning in 1996 are subject to the same terms. All vehicles share the same problems with this code, although some specific models could need additional steps for diagnosis or repair.

A Camshaft Position Sensor by Teresa Trimm / CC BY-SA 2.0 Error code P0340 indicates a problem with the camshaft position sensor ‘A’ circuit. This type of malfunction may lead to serious issues that need to be resolved right away because the underlying problem that triggered the code can ruin your car’s engine if you continue to drive it.

DTC P0340 Code: What Does It Mean In a Car?

A “Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction” is indicated by OBD-II diagnostic problem code P0340. It includes everything in the circuit that is connected to the sensor in question, including the electrical connections and the powertrain control module (PCM). Therefore, changing the sensor won’t always cure the problem.

The engine’s camshaft rotational speed is determined by the camshaft position sensor. It also records the precise rotational location of the shaft. It sends a signal to the PCM, which sets the timing for the fuel injection and ignition systems based on sensor data.

The engine’s exact timing is affected when the camshaft position sensor’s signal is interrupted, which can lead to performance issues like misfires and inadequate fuel-to-air mixes. When something went wrong, the PCM will record the P0340 error code and turn on the Check Engine Light to alert the driver.

The powertrain code P0340 is a common one. It applies to all car manufacturers and models produced in 1996 or after. When identifying and fixing a problem with the circuit that houses the camshaft position sensor, some models could require extra steps.

P0335, Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction, is a related error code. P0335, like P0340, alerts the user to an issue with a sensor’s electric circuit.

P0335 deals with the crankshaft, which transfers engine power into forward motion, whereas P0340 is concerned with the camshaft, which regulates the intake and exhaust valves.

Any vehicle that receives a P0340 code is in trouble. Due to the consequent engine performance issues, drivers may find it challenging or impossible to start the engine.

They risk losing power while driving if they keep on driving the car. Additionally, neglecting the camshaft position sensor issue for an extended period might harm the engine, necessitating a far more involved and costly repair process.

Drivers should refrain from operating a vehicle with a faulty camshaft position sensor circuit in light of these limitations. Instead, the P0340 error code’s primary cause must be found and fixed as quickly as feasible.

The safest course of action still involves driving the car to an auto repair shop, even though people with appropriate DIY mechanical abilities can locate and resolve many of the problems.

P0340 has been reported by users for the following brands: Jeep, Ford (particularly on a Ford F-150), Nissan, Dodge, and Chevrolet.

Why Does Code P0340 So Often Occur?

DTC P0340 or P0345 can have several causes, depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle. These are a few of the most typical.

Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement by Teresa Trimm / CC BY-SA 2.0 OBD-II diagnostic trouble code P0340 denotes a malfunction of the “A” circuit for the camshaft position sensor. It contains all of the electrical connections and the powertrain control module in the circuit that is connected to the aforementioned sensor (PCM). Therefore, the issue may not always be resolved by switching the sensor.

1. Defective Sensor

The sensor coil won’t produce a signal if it is open or shorted.

2. Faulty Installation

The placement has a significant impact on a solid CMP signal. The sensor typically requires 0.020″ to 0.050″ of space between it and the reluctor ring or camshaft teeth. The clearance will be incorrect if the sensor is cocked to one side or is not firmly installed, and the signal will be too weak for the ECU to detect. The sensor’s signal will be corrupted if the reluctor ring is rubbing against it.

3. A Phase Issue with the Alternator

This could involve issues like blown diodes or open coils that could result in such much electrical interference that the CMP signal becomes distorted and sets a P0340 or P0345 DTC among other things, even when there isn’t a real issue with the CMP sensor or wiring.

4. Not Using the Car for a Long Time

Rodents might consider your car to be a perfect spot to build a nest if it has been sitting in storage for a while. Unfortunately, these little animals might find your wiring repulsive or even appetizing while searching for nesting materials and cleaning up after themselves, leading to open circuit issues.

5.  Vehicle Age

Plastic and rubber have the propensity to stiffen and lose flexibility over time, which can cause connector breakage and harm to wire insulation. Corrosion, open circuits, or short circuits could result as a result.

Although the camshaft position sensor is typically durable and long-lasting, this doesn’t necessarily rule out the possibility of a problem. More frequently, though, the issue is with the sensor’s cabling and connectors or something else entirely. Make sure you can rule out the rest of the system before you jump right on a new sensor.

What are the Symptoms of the P0340 Error Code?

A P0340 error code may be the cause of any engine power loss your car is experiencing. Misfiring, stalling, and other engine and ignition issues are also signs of an OBD-II scanner error code P0340 issue.

Complete ignition failure is another frequent problem. The camshaft position sensor in your car can stop the ignition from sparking at all when the computer signal deteriorates. Naturally, you won’t be able to start your engine because of this.

A decrease in fuel mileage is a minor indication that might not be as noticeable. Your vehicle may inject more fuel than necessary into your engine due to a faulty sensor or damaged wiring, which makes it much less efficient and reduces your gas mileage.

Shifting problems could also occur, depending on your car. Your transmission may become locked if the camshaft position sensor is damaged, making it impossible to shift up or down.

The camshaft position sensor keeps track of the camshaft’s rate of rotation. In addition, a calculation is performed while the shaft is rotating and a signal is sent to the PCM as a result. The PCM then uses the information to adjust the timing for the fuel injection and ignition systems. If the signal from the camshaft position sensor is disrupted, the timing of the engine could be wrong.

Your camshaft position sensor circuitry may be malfunctioning if you switch off your engine, wait a few minutes, then restart it and you can shift smoothly.

How Simple Is a P0340 Code Diagnosis?

Diagnoses for error code P0340 can be challenging, especially when additional DTCs are present. An accurate diagnosis can be made by a mechanic because of their training.

Since these error codes could lead to major engine problems if ignored, it is important to have your car checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

When you bring your car to the shop, the technician will use an OBD scanner instrument to look for any fault codes. They will examine the camshaft position sensor and look for any loose or damaged wires or connections.

They will then look for shorted or corroded wires in any circuit wiring. They will examine the camshaft position sensor for continuity and make any necessary repairs for any error codes associated with the P0340 DTC.

How Complex Is a P0340 Code Diagnosis?

There is no one repair for the error code P0340 because it might happen for several reasons. This is especially true given how many other codes a P0340 has in common.

For this reason, it’s important to seek the advice of a qualified mechanic. The camshaft position sensor replacement is one of the most popular solutions for this problem number. But before a mechanic can do a successful repair, they must always correctly diagnose the code.

A tune-up to fix misfire issues, replacing or reprogramming the PCM, and replacing the camshaft position sensor circuit connector are additional fixes frequently associated with this code. All of these operations call for a specialized level of expertise, which is best left to trained professionals.

Which are the Common Errors In P0340 Code Diagnosis?

Examining the cabling and connectors is crucial before replacing the camshaft position sensor to rule them out as potential causes of the issue. When determining the cause of the P0340 error number, this is the most typical error.

Another error made during the diagnostic process is failing to take into account a crankshaft sensor issue or a misfiring issue as potential sources of the P0340 trouble code.

Does the P0340 Code Represent a Serious Car Problem?

This code is regarded as severe. It could be challenging or impossible to start the car. A loss of power may also be felt by the driver when operating the vehicle. The presence of these symptoms makes driving the car risky for both the driver and other road users.

If the P0340 fault code is left unattended for an extended period, other engine parts may potentially sustain damage. The P0340 error code needs to be identified and fixed right away.

Even while camshaft position sensors are frequently robust and long-lasting, this doesn’t mean that a problem can’t occur. But more often than not, the problem is with the connectors and cable of the sensor, or with something else entirely. Before you focus solely on a new sensor, make sure you can rule out the rest of the system.

What Should You Look Out for When You Have the P0340 Code In Your Car?

P0340 should not be disregarded. To find the precise issue, you must examine all potential causes. If you don’t have enough experience or knowledge to perform DIY auto repairs, you might think about having your car serviced by a qualified mechanic.

If you’re still interested in examining your car, finding an instructive YouTube video may be helpful as it can assist you to understand the diagnostic process.

A Mechanic’s Diagnosis of the P0340 Code

• Retrieves all of the fault codes that the PCM has stored using an OBD-II scanner.

• Checks the wiring of the camshaft position sensor for damaged, corroded, or shorted wires.

• Look for damaged or corroded connectors in the camshaft position sensor connector.

• Checks the wiring of the camshaft position sensor circuit for damaged, corroded, or shorted wires.

• Examines the camshaft position sensor circuits for continuity

• Completes any required fixes for further issue codes relating to it that the PCM has saved.

• Examines the voltage values from the camshaft position sensor using a scan tool or oscilloscope.

• It will be necessary to replace the camshaft position sensor if the voltage values are abnormal.

• The PCM may have a fault that calls for replacement or reprogramming if the voltage readings for the camshaft position sensor are normal.

How Can You Diagnose Code P0340 on Your Own?

There are various potential causes of engine code P0340, including a defective ECM, faulty wiring, or a broken sensor. You should adhere to the methods listed below for an accurate diagnosis if you want to attempt to fix issue P0340 at home without spending money on parts.

Remember that this is an intermediate-level diagnosis and repair, so beginners should avoid attempting it. Diagnosis can be a time- and labor-intensive process for unskilled DIYers and requires more specialist tools than what this article can offer.

It is not advised for beginners to attempt this repair because it takes mechanical understanding.

When the camshaft position sensor’s signal is lost, the engine’s precise timing is impacted, which can cause performance problems like misfires and insufficient fuel-to-air mixtures. The PCM will note the P0340 error code and illuminate the Check Engine Light to warn the driver if something went wrong.

Step 1: Check the Wiring for the Camshaft Position Sensor

Look for any corroded, damaged, or frayed wiring by visually inspecting the camshaft position sensor wiring.

Step 2: Check the Connector for the Camshaft Position Sensor

Look for corroded or damaged connectors by visually inspecting the camshaft position sensor connector.

Step 3: Check for Any Other Engine Codes Using the OBD II Scanner

To make sure P0340 is the only code present, scan your car with an OBD II scanner. If there are any other codes, perform any necessary repairs to ensure that they are not the cause of the issue code P0340.

Step 4: Examine the Camshaft Position Sensor

Use a multimeter to check the voltage, ground, and signal readings on your camshaft position sensor. For a visual guide on how to use your multimeter to check it, view this YouTube video.

Step 5: Examine the Reluctor Ring

Remove the camshaft position sensor and inspect the reluctor ring for damage, debris, or misalignment if you discover that it is unable to generate a voltage or a signal. The camshaft position sensor should be changed if the reluctor ring appears to be in good condition.

Step 6: Examine the Crankshaft Position Sensor

Perform the same test on the crankshaft position sensor and related circuits as you performed on the camshaft position sensor if the issue continues to be an issue. Replace it if it fails the tests.

Step 7: Perform the Continuity Test

If the issue continues, run a continuity test on the circuits connecting the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors to the ECM. Any flaws you find should be fixed.

If following these instructions does not turn off your Check Engine Light, you might need to take your car to a mechanic since there could be internal problems with the ECM, strained or damaged timing components, or a potential need for an ECM software update.

How Can You Fix the P0340 Code?

You won’t discover a “magic bullet” solution for a P0340, as you won’t with many of these OBD-II fault codes. There will be more than one conceivable cause if there is also more than one viable solution.

Since the P0340 error code can be caused by several different problems, there are various treatments available. One of these fixes, as previously noted, may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, although this isn’t always the case.

Other common remedies for the P0340 error code includes a tune-up to address misfire problems, replacing or reprogramming the PCM, and changing the connector for the camshaft position sensor circuit. All of these tasks require a high level of specialized knowledge, which is better left to qualified experts.

You must correctly identify the code’s cause and conduct the necessary repairs after a precise diagnosis.

Additionally, because each vehicle is unique, always refer to the factory repair manual while analyzing and fixing diagnostic fault codes.

Chilton-style repair manuals are helpful, but an ALLDATA membership is superior. For DIYers, ALLDATA offers single-vehicle subscriptions that include comprehensive factory repair data.

What Fixes are Available for the P0340 Code?

Fortunately, there are a few fixes for code P0340. Both the circuit connector and the wire for the camshaft position sensor can be fixed or replaced.

The crankshaft position sensor or the camshaft position sensor may need to be replaced if those fixes don’t work.

Before changing the camshaft position sensor, you should tune up the car if misfire codes are present. The PCM can also be changed or reprogrammed. Here is a list of everything you need to do.

• Changing or repairing the wiring for the camshaft position sensor

• Replacing or repairing the wiring connector for the camshaft position sensor

• Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement

• Crankshaft position sensor replacement

• Before changing the camshaft position sensor, perform a vehicle tune-up if misfire codes are present.

• Replacement or PCM programming

How Much Does the Code P0340 Repair Cost?

P0340 may be brought up by defective wiring, poor sensors, or an erroneous ECM, among other things. Without fully assessing the problem first, it is hard to provide a precise estimate.

Most shops will begin with an hour of “diag time” if you bring your car in for a diagnosis (the time spent in labor diagnosing your specific issue). This normally costs between $75 and $150, depending on the labor rate at the shop.

If you hire the shop to handle the repairs, many, if not most, will deduct this diagnosis price from any necessary work. A shop will then be able to provide you with an accurate estimate for repairs to resolve your P0340 error.

Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement by Teresa Trimm / CC BY-SA 2.0 You will need an OBD 2 scan tool to fully remove the P0340 error code. The defective component must first be located and replaced, exactly like with other fault codes. This can be a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor, a bad connector that is loose or unclean, or poor wiring.

Costs of P0340’s Possible Repairs

The underlying problem for error number P0340 can require one or more of the fixes listed below. The estimated cost of repair includes both the cost of the necessary parts and the cost of the labor needed to complete the repair for each potential repair.

• $120 – $300 for a camshaft position sensor.

• $190 – $250 for a crankshaft position sensor

• $1000 – $1200 for ECM

• $200 – $1000 for the timing belt or chain replacement

Is It Possible to Drive a Car That Has P0340 Code?

No, we wouldn’t advise operating a vehicle that has a P0340 designation. When there is an electrical issue with the camshaft position sensor, this error code is set.

It is necessary for the engine’s variable valve timing to operate properly. This may result in a variety of operating troubles, performance issues, and possibly catastrophic engine damage.

How Can You Get Rid of Code P0340?

To completely remove the P0340 code, you will require a scan tool. However, just as with other fault codes, you must first identify and replace the problematic component. This could be a faulty camshaft position sensor, a loose or dirty connector, or damaged wiring.

Will P0340 Code Clear on Its Own?

No, the P0340 error code won’t disappear by itself. The Check Engine Light will remain on even after you have replaced the defective component. This will eventually stop, but the P0340 issue code will stay in the car’s diagnostic memory, which could complicate further repairs. You need an OBD2 scanner to clear the code.

The Conclusion

The electric circuit connecting to the camshaft position sensor, like any other component of the vehicle, is susceptible to malfunction from faulty maintenance, rough use, or ordinary wear and tear. Any car, including those from well-known manufacturers like Ford and Nissan, may display the ensuing P0340 trouble code.

Bring the impacted car to an auto repair shop as soon as you can if the OBD-II scanner displays the P0340 code, which indicates a faulty camshaft position sensor circuit.

If not, the continual operation may eventually cause harm to the engine in addition to being challenging due to poor engine performance brought on by misfires.

Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement by Teresa Trimm / CC BY-SA 2.0