Error P0340 – how to fix?

Code definition P0340

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction.

What does the code P0340 mean

The camshaft position sensor calculates the rotational speed of the camshaft and its position in that rotation. The camshaft sensor sends a signal to the Power Control Module (PCM) to provide this information. The PCM then uses the information collected by the camshaft position sensor to adjust the fuel injector timing and control the ignition spark.

When the signal to and from the camshaft position sensor and PCM is interrupted, the ignition spark and fuel injector timing will fail and the PCM will record P0340. The Check Engine light comes on.

What causes the code P0340?

• Camshaft position sensor wiring damaged, shorted, or corroded.
• Damaged, shorted or corroded connector of the camshaft position sensor circuit.
• Camshaft position sensor defective
• Faulty crankshaft position sensor
• Damaged PCM

What are the symptoms of the P0340 code?

• The Check Engine light will come on.
• The vehicle may not start or may be difficult to start.
• The vehicle may be idling or stopping
• There may be an ignition failure in the vehicle
• There may be a loss of power while driving

How can a mechanic diagnose the P0340 code?

• Use the OBD-II scanner to retrieve all the fault codes that have been saved by the PCM.
• Inspect the camshaft position sensor wiring for damaged, corroded, or shorted wires.
• Checks the camshaft position sensor connector for damaged or corroded connectors.
• Inspect the camshaft position sensor wiring for damaged, corroded, or shorted wires.
• Checks the continuity of the camshaft position sensor circuit.
• Performs any necessary repairs for other related fault codes that have been saved by the PCM.
• Use a scan tool or oscilloscope to check the camshaft position sensor voltage readings.
• If the voltage readings are incorrect, replace the camshaft position sensor.
• If the voltage readings from the camshaft position sensor are normal, there may be a problem with the PCM that requires replacement or reprogramming.

Common errors when diagnosing P0340 code

Before replacing the camshaft position sensor, be sure to check the wiring and connectors to rule them out as the cause of the problem. This is the most common error when diagnosing fault code P0340.

Another error made during diagnostics is not considering the problem with the ignition or the crankshaft sensor as possible sources of the P0340 fault.

How serious is the P0340 code?

This code is considered serious. The car may not start or may be difficult to start. The driver may also experience a lack of power while the vehicle is running. These symptoms make driving unsafe for the driver and everyone else on the road. Damage to other engine components can also occur if error code P0340 is not cleared for an extended period of time. Fault code P0340 must be diagnosed and repaired immediately.

What repairs can fix the P0340 code?

1. Repair or replace the camshaft position sensor circuit wiring.
2. Repair or replace the camshaft position sensor circuit connector.
3. Camshaft position sensor replacement
4. Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
5. If misfire codes are present, service the vehicle before replacing the camshaft position sensor.
6. Replace or reprogram the PCM.

Additional considerations for code P0340

Fault code P0340 is not always easy to diagnose. Before making any decisions, check the entire system. Also make sure you are repairing and / or replacing the correct component.