What does the code P0346 mean?

P0346 - Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) A, range problem /

bank performance 2

Code of
Fault localization Probable cause
problem

Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) A, Unstable sensor / rotor, space of

P0346
bank performance/rank problem 2 air, wiring, CMP sensor

An engine that functions correctly is essentially the precise moment of the explosions fueled by
gasoline. Depending on the engine speed (RPM) and load, the engine control unit (ECU)
controls the synchronization and the amount of fuel injection, the ignition timing
and, in the case of engines with variable valve timing (VVT), intake and exhaust valve adjustments
over time. The two main synchronization and position sensors used by the ECU are the sensor of
crankshaft position (often CKP) and the camshaft position sensor (often CMP). If there are two
banks in an engine equipped with VVT, there will be two camshaft position sensors.

The camshaft position sensor reacts to a gear on the camshaft, providing

the ECU has constant information about its speed and position. Of course, the CMP is located in the engine,
Generally at some point in the cylinder head, as it transmits CMP data to the ECU via cables. If the
ECU detects a range/performance issue with the CMP signal, it will set DTC P0341 or DTC P0346 -
Malfunction of the camshaft position sensor circuit. If your engine has only one CMP, like
a four-cylinder inline engine, the only available CMP code is for Bank 1, P0341. On the other hand, the
V6 or V8 engines have two banks, Bank 1 and Bank 2, and therefore would have two CMP, so the
DTC P0346 would refer to Bank 2. Sensor A indicates that the malfunction is occurring with the
circuit of the camshaft position sensor belonging to the intake camshaft. The codes of the
sensor B belongs to the exhaust camshaft.

What are the common causes of code P0346?

Depending on the year, make, and model, the DTC P0341 or P0346 can have several causes. Here are some of
the most common.

Defective sensor: if the sensor coil is open or short-circuited, it will not generate a signal.
Poor installation: a good CMP signal relies heavily on the location. In general, the sensor
it needs a free space between 0.020" and 0.050" for the reluctor ring or the camshaft tooth. If the sensor
if it is tilted to one side or not firmly seated, the free space will be incorrect and the signal will be
too weak for the ECU to detect it. If the reluctor ring is rubbing against the sensor, the signal will
will distort.
Ford Trucks / Mustang GT: a phase problem of the alternator, like a blown diode or an open coil.
it can cause so much electrical interference that the CMP signal is distorted, causing a
DTC P0341 / P0346, among others, despite there being no real problem with the CMP sensor or the wiring.
Stored cars: If your car has been stored for an extended period of time, rodents
you can find it as an excellent nesting place. Unfortunately, while searching for materials of
nesting and cleaning of the house, these little bugs may find your wiring offensive or even
tasty, which results in open circuit problems.
Old cars: over time, plastic and rubber tend to become brittle and less flexible, which
It can cause the connector to break and damage the cable insulation. In turn, this can cause corrosion.
open circuits or short circuits.

In general, the camshaft position sensor is quite durable and long-lasting, which does not
necessarily rules it out as a problem, but most of the time, the problem lies in the wiring and
the connectors of the sensor, or something completely different. Before jumping directly to a new sensor,
first make sure to discard the rest of the system.

How is code P0346 resolved?

Since P0341 and P0346 refer to a circuit problem, do not automatically condemn the sensor.
CMP. That doesn't mean that it couldn't be the sensor itself, but replacing the sensor won't always resolve the issue.
problem. Obtain your wiring diagram and DVOM (digital volt-ohm meter) for this upcoming
part.

1. Visual inspection: on the CMP sensor, ensure that it is plugged in and properly seated. Additionally, follow the
wiring harness to search for damage, such as recent engine repairs, market installations of
accessories, impact damage or rodent damage.
2. Sensor Inspection
a. Resistance check: disconnect the sensor and measure the resistance. An open circuit, ∞ Ω, or a
short circuit, 0 Ω, at this point it would indicate that the sensor is failing.
b. Signal verification: the correct way to do it would be with a digital oscilloscope, but you can obtain
an approximate estimate of the CMP sensor function by setting your DVOM to AC V mode. To
When starting, I should be able to see at least 20 mV.
3. Electrical inspection: disconnect the ECM and CMP connectors and place a short pin in the terminals of the
CMP connection. You can use a small clip or wire for this.
a. From the ECM side, check the resistance in the circuit itself. With the short pin in place, it should
read less than 0.1 Ω. Higher, and the ECU will not be able to detect the signal. Look for a broken wire or corrosion in
some place on the circuit.
b. Remove the short pin and check if there is an open circuit, ∞ Ω. If there is some resistance, suspect a
short circuit. Water in an intermediate connector could easily be the cause of a short circuit.
c. Check if there is a short to ground by taking one of the wires and connecting it to ground or to the terminal.
Battery negative. It should read an open circuit, ∞ Ω. Any unintentional connection grounds.
it could distort or weaken the signal.
4. Other issues: in case no problems are found in the CMP sensor or its wiring, it may be that
P0341 or P0346 are simply auxiliary fault codes. A jumped timing belt, a signal or
defective crankshaft position sensor circuit, or an engine ignition failure, may be the
main problem. Please double-check this before returning to the CMP.