P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Is your car not working and showing obd2 error P0340? You don't have to worry anymore! We have created an article in which we will teach you what it means, causes and solutions for each BRAND.

• P0340 - Malfunction of the camshaft position sensor circuit.
• P0340 - Malfunction of the "A" circuit of the camshaft position sensor.

DTC P0340 Technical Description

Malfunction of the camshaft position sensor circuit.

The camshaft position sensor (or small plane) is a data transmitter-receiver that has the function of checking and recognizing the speed at which the camshaft rotates in relation to the engine. The recorded data is used by the engine control module (ECM) to recognize and coordinate ignition with the injection required for combustion.

It is called a position sensor because it is able to determine the position of the camshaft and thus identify a particular cylinder and its piston, whether it is injection or combustion.

The mechanism by which this sensor outputs and receives data on the operation of the camshaft is that it has a rotating part that detects when the engine is running, the high and low surfaces of the camshaft teeth cause a change in the gap with the sensor. This constant change results in a change in the magnetic field near the sensor, causing changes in the sensor voltage.

When the crankshaft position sensor (POS) mechanism stops working, camshaft position sensor provides multiple checks on engine parts using recorded data, using time in relation to the position of the engine cylinders.

P0340 - What does this mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. It is considered universal as it applies to all makes and models of cars (1996 and newer), although the specific repair steps may differ slightly depending on the model. So this article with engine codes applies to Nissan, Ford, Toyota, Chevrolet, Dodge, Honda, GMC, etc.

This P0340 code indicates that a problem has been detected in the camshaft position sensor. Or in simple words - this code means that somewhere in the system sensor camshaft position malfunction.

Since it says "Circuit", this means that the problem may be in any part of the circuit - in the sensor itself, wiring or PCM. Don't just replace the CPS (Camshaft Position Sensor) and think it will fix everything.

P0430 obd2

Symptoms of a P0340 trouble code may include:

Symptoms may include:

• The CHECK-ENGINE function is activated or the engine light comes on as a service warning for the engine.
• Hard start or car won't start
• Rough running / misfiring
• Loss of engine power
• Unexpected engine shutdown, still in progress.

Causes of the P0340 code

DTC P0340 is a sign that there is a problem with the camshaft position sensor. The name of the position sensor is due to the fact that it has the ability to determine the exact position of the camshaft. Its job is to transmit a signal as soon as the camshaft is fully rotated again. Based on this signal, the electronic engine control module, also called the ECM (engine control module) or PCM (power control module), determines the correct timing for injection and ignition of the engine. Indeed, this module controls the ignition coils and injectors on a signal from the camshaft. When the signal from the camshaft position sensor and the PCM is not working or does not match the vehicle standard,

However, this is a fairly generic code, as the problem could be with the sensor itself, the wiring, or the PCM.

The P0340 code may mean that one or more of the following events have occurred:

• a wire or connector in the circuit may be grounded / shorted / broken
• the camshaft position sensor could be damaged
• PCM may be out of order
• there is an open circuit
• the crankshaft position sensor could be damaged

Causes of DTC P0340

• Damaged camshaft sensor (or airbag).
• The presence of short circuits at a point on the branch of the camshaft sensor.
• The camshaft sensor connector is sulphated, which creates poor contact.
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• Short circuit in the launch system.
• Low energy reserves.

Possible solutions

With a P0340 OBD-II trouble code, diagnostics can sometimes be tricky. Here are a few things to try:

• Visually inspect all wiring and connectors in the circuit.
• Check the continuity of the wiring circuit.
• Check the operation (voltage) of the camshaft position sensor.
• Replace the camshaft position sensor if necessary.
• Also check the crankshaft position chain.
• Replace electrical wiring and / or connectors if necessary.
• Diagnose / replace PCM as needed
• Make sure the sensor connector is not sulphated.
• Check the energy storage current

How to fix code P0340. A new cam sensor will not repair this car.

Repair Tips

The fact that, as stated above, the problem signaling this code can be related not only to the camshaft sensor, but also to the wiring or PCM, it is not recommended to immediately replace the sensor until a thorough diagnosis of this case has been made . Also, due to the generality of symptoms associated with this error code, diagnosis can unfortunately be quite difficult. Here are some of the checks you should make:

• Visual inspection of all wiring and connectors in the loop.
• Check wiring continuity.
• Checking the voltage values ​​of the camshaft position sensor.
• Checking the crankshaft position circuit.
• Check and replace PCM if necessary.
• Checking the current strength of the energy storage device.

If problems are found when checking the above components, they will need to be repaired or replaced, for example, if broken cables or connectors are found. Another method is to connect a camshaft sensor to an oscilloscope to check the signal emitted while the engine is running. Another problem may be that the car has a non-original sensor that is not ideal for your car model, which produces a modified signal.

If the camshaft sensor is OK, then you need to check the crankshaft sensor (PCM), first making sure it is properly connected and installed. In the workshop, the mechanic will also be able to retrieve all the fault codes stored in the PCM using an OBD-II scanner.

DTC P0340 is a serious problem that should not be underestimated, especially since the car can not only stall, but also not respond properly to commands while driving. Since this is a safety issue, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by an experienced mechanic and avoid driving with this error code activated. Because diagnostics require special tools, do-it-yourself work in a home garage is not recommended. Due to the complexity of the intervention, an accurate cost estimate is not easy to make.

It is difficult to estimate the upcoming costs, since a lot depends on the results of the diagnostics carried out by the mechanic. As a rule, the cost of a camshaft position sensor is about 30 euros (but the price obviously varies depending on the car model), to which the cost of labor must be added.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does code P0340 mean?

DTC P0340 is related to a malfunction in the camshaft position sensor (CPS) circuit.

What causes the P0340 code?

The most common causes of this error are a wiring problem or a defect in the sensor itself.

How to fix code P0340?

Use special tools to thoroughly check the wiring and connectors.

Can code P0340 go away on its own?

This code does not disappear on its own and requires intervention.

Can I drive with code P0340?

Better not! In fact, while driving, the car could not only stop, but also not respond properly to commands.

How much does it cost to fix code P0340?

As a rule, the cost of a camshaft position sensor is about 30 euros (but the price obviously varies depending on the car model), to which the cost of labor must be added. 

Code P0340 Nissan

Code Description Nissan P0340 OBD2

Malfunction of the camshaft position sensor circuit. This well-known sensor, located in the internal combustion engine, monitors its correct operation by the position and speed of rotation of the camshaft.

The operation of this sensor goes hand in hand with the gear ring, which produces a square wave signal that the car's computer interprets as the position of the crankshaft.

This information is used by the PCM to control ignition spark and fuel injector timing. DTC P0340 then occurs when a startup error occurs.

What does P0340 Nissan OBD2 trouble code mean?

This code describes a misfire when there are problems with ignition spark and fuel injector timing because the engine does not know when to turn on these components.

Symptoms of the P0340 Nissan error

• The Check Engine will run on the car's dashboard.
• Sometimes it doesn't even start.
• In some cases there will be a loss of power while driving.

Troubleshooting Nissan Trouble Code P0340 OBDII

• Visually inspect and inspect the camshaft position sensor cable system for broken or corroded cables.
• Similarly, check that the camshaft position sensor connections do not have bad connections, broken or corroded connectors.
• If another DTC is present in addition to DTC P0340, it is recommended that these other DTCs be corrected as they are sometimes the cause of the P0340 itself.
• If you have a multimeter, you can check the voltage, ground, and signal readings of the camshaft position sensor with a multimeter.
• If the sensor does not output any signal or voltage, check that the adapter ring is in good condition, in which case the camshaft position sensor needs to be replaced.
• Although not common, if the problem persists, take a multimeter reading from the crankshaft position sensor and all of its circuits. Replace if necessary.
• If you don't already have a solution, it's possible that PCM itself isn't working.

Causes of Nissan DTC P0340

• The CMP sensor may be defective.
• Reducer ring damaged.
• The wiring or circuit connector of the CMP sensor may be misplaced, shorted, or corroded.
• Bad crankshaft position sensor.
• The ECM may be defective or outdated.

Code P0340 Toyota

Code description Toyota P0340 OBD2

The camshaft position sensor is an important part of your Toyota vehicle's electrical system. This sensor will require a set of cables and connectors to function properly. If an error occurs that is related to your work, error code P0340 will be displayed.

What does the P0340 Toyota OBD2 trouble code mean?

Should I be concerned if I am presented with this code during a vehicle scan? Since this is a bad start, you will have frequent problems while driving, and there may be big problems with the engine if you do not fix it immediately. Therefore, immediate repair is recommended.

Symptoms of error Toyota P0340

• While driving a Toyota vehicle, you will experience a noticeable loss of power.
• The longer the fault occurs, the more difficult it will be to start the engine and therefore the longer and longer it will take to start.
• You may have irregularities in fuel consumption. By injecting more or less fuel than the engine needs.
• Check the engine indicator on the dashboard.

Troubleshooting Toyota P0340 OBDII

• Keep in mind that the camshaft position sensor is not always the source of the problem, so it is not recommended to rush to replace it.
• Visually inspect each camshaft position sensor component, associated cables and connectors for corrosion, poor contact, loose or shorted wire.
• If you notice that the connectors or cables are already in poor condition due to the time of use, it is better to replace them, as there may be inefficient work in the sensor circuit.
• If you have a multimeter, check the voltage of both the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor. If there is no voltage, check the electrical connections and replace the damaged sensor if necessary.

Causes of DTC P0340 Toyota

• Open circuit in sensor wiring.
• The car computer itself may be faulty or outdated.
• Shorted or broken ground wire.
• The crankshaft or camshaft position sensor may be damaged.

Code P0340 Chevrolet

Chevrolet P0340 OBD2 code description

Code P0340 is one of the most common faults that can occur on your Chevrolet vehicle, so it is important to know both what it means and how to fix it.

The fault is related to the camshaft position sensor, where The ECU has detected erratic operation on the sensor side.

What does the P0340 Chevrolet OBD2 trouble code mean?

This generic code is generated when the vehicle's ECM sends a signal to the camshaft position sensor, but the correct signal is not visible in the volts from the sensor. This fault deserves attention as it may be related to other faults, sensors or codes.

Symptoms of error P0340 Chevrolet

• The Check Engine light will illuminate on the instrument panel.
• Long and expensive launch.
• Sometimes, due to gravity, it may not start under any circumstances.
• The vehicle may be inactive or locked.
• Loss of engine power while driving.

Troubleshoot Chevrolet P0340 OBDII

• Check the camshaft position sensor wiring for signs of corrosion, cracks, or shorts. Replace cable if necessary.
• Similarly, check the connectors and connections of the sensors and make sure they are well seated, not damaged or shorted.
• Check the continuity of the camshaft position sensor circuits.
• If the error persists, you can check with a multimeter to check the voltage reading and make sure it is within manufacturer's specifications. Usually, if the error persists at this point, the camshaft position sensor needs to be replaced.
• As a last resort, replace or reprogram the PCM.

Cause of DTC P0340 Chevrolet

• Circuit wiring is a potential cause of code P0340, sometimes shorted, cracked or corroded.
• The CMP sensor is damaged.
• Low battery.
• The CMP sensor circuit may have poor electrical contact.

Code P0340 Ford

Ford P0340 OBD2 code description

The camshaft position sensor in a Ford vehicle continuously records the speed at which the camshaft is rotating. It then sends this voltage information to the engine control module (ECM), which uses this information to control ignition and fuel injection.

When the vehicle's computer detects a sensor signal violation, a P0340 code is set.

What does the P0340 Ford OBD2 trouble code mean?

If DTC P0340 did appear in your Ford vehicle, this may be caused by a break or unevenness between the signal received and sent from the computer and the camshaft position sensor , which will cause the injector, fuel and ignition spark to be out of sync.

Symptoms of P0340 Ford error

• The Check Engine light will illuminate on the instrument panel.
• Due to the lack of timing between the fuel injectors, you will notice uneven fuel consumption.
• It is very likely that the car will be difficult to start or will not start.
• The loss of engine power will become noticeable over time.

Troubleshooting Ford P0340 OBDII Error

Try solutions offered by brands such as the already mentioned Toyota or Chevrolet. Since the P0340 code is a generic error, solutions for different brands are clearly similar.

Cause of DTC P0340 Ford

• The cable system of the CMP sensor may be shorted, corroded, or frayed.
• The CMP sensor itself may be faulty.
• Starter damaged.
• The vehicle battery level may be very low.
• The crankshaft position sensor may also be faulty.
• Poor electrical connection of the camshaft position sensor.

Code P0340 Chrysler

Code Description P0340 OBD2 Chrysler

Every Chrysler vehicle has an electronic device that senses the rotational speed of the camshaft in the engine. It collects this information and sends it to the car's computer. If for any reason the communication between the ECU and the sensor is interrupted, the P0340 DTC will be detected automatically.

What does Chrysler P0340 OBD2 trouble code mean?

Given that P0340 is a generic code, it can be said that its meaning is the same as the brands mentioned above and is applicable to Chrysler vehicles.

Symptoms of error Chrysler P0340

• The Check Engine light will illuminate on the instrument panel.
• You will notice a loss of engine power.
• Fuel consumption will be slightly higher than normal.
• The motor will change speed randomly.
• Long trips.

Troubleshooting Chrysler P0340 OBDII Error

• Visually check that the entire wiring and connector system is in perfect condition and free from corrosion, cracks or short circuits. Replace cables if necessary.
• Check the continuity of the sensor circuit.
• Check with a multimeter or other tool that the camshaft position sensor and crankshaft position sensor have voltage within the correct parameters. Replace the faulty sensor if necessary.

Cause of DTC P0340 Chrysler

• Short circuit in the CMP sensor.
• This code is characterized by poor electrical connections, corrosion of cables or connections, and deterioration of the electrical system of the CMP sensor.
• The CMP or CKP sensors may be damaged.
• The battery may be dead.

Code P0340 Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi P0340 OBD2 code description

The description is very similar to the generic code P0340 and brands like Chrysler or Toyota.

What does Mitsubishi OBD2 DTC P0340 mean?

This code indicates a problem with the camshaft position sensor circuit. Due to a malfunction, the vehicle's PCM will not receive the information it needs to test the injection and ignition systems.

Causes engine timing to fail and becomes visible with the Check Engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.

Symptoms of Mitsubishi error P0340

• Delayed start, in severe cases, the engine does not even start.
• It will have an unstable minimum.
• It will exhibit excessive fuel consumption accompanied by black smoke from the exhaust pipe.
• Vehicle movement tends to be unstable.

Mitsubishi P0340 OBDII Troubleshooting

• The first and most recommended is to have a repair manual for your Mitsubishi car model, which will help you recognize and find the problem even faster.
• Inspect the CMP sensor circuit wiring and connectors for good condition, no corrosion or shorts. Replace cables if necessary.
• Check continuity between circuit cable and vehicle ECU terminal.
• Also check the crankshaft position sensor circuit, they may affect code P0340.
• With a multimeter, you can check that the CMP sensor is energized.
• If there is still no solution, the error may be related to the same PCM.

Causes of the Mitsubishi OBDII DTC P0340 Code

Since this is a generic code, you know the causes of this Mitsubishi P0340 code in already mentioned brands such as Toyota or Nissan where we look at many possible causes.

Code P0340 Volkswagen

Code Description P0340 OBD2 VW

DTC P0340 clearly reflects a malfunction of the CMP sensor, also called the camshaft position sensor. With a sensitive position right where the engine spark and combustion are generated, it is important to correct this error as soon as possible.

What does VW OBD2 DTC P0340 mean?

Its meaning in Volkswagen is the same as in the brands mentioned earlier in this article, such as Toyota or Nissan.

Symptoms of error VW P0340

• Your vehicle has a Check Engine light on the dashboard.
• The engine will continually struggle to start until it eventually fails to start under any circumstances.
• The engine loses power easily.

Troubleshooting VW P0340 OBDII Error

Try the solutions offered by brands such as Nissan or Chevrolet, where we list and explain each of the possible solutions for this common code.

Causes of DTC P0340 VW

• A damaged CMP sensor is usually the source of the code.
• Working together, a faulty crankshaft position sensor can also cause a P0340 code.
• CMP sensor wiring or connectors may be frayed, corroded, shorted, or broken.
• Defective or outdated PCM.

Code P0340 Hyundai

Hyundai P0340 OBD2 Code Description

The description of the OBD2 code P0340 in Hyundai vehicles is the same as the definition we mentioned when talking about brands like Toyota or Nissan.

What does the P0340 Hyundai OBD2 trouble code mean?

P0340 is a trouble code that is as common as it is difficult to diagnose on many Hyundai models. This generic transmission code points to a problem somewhere in the camshaft position sensor circuit.

Symptoms of error Hyundai P0340

You can learn about the symptoms from the brands mentioned earlier in the article. Since this is a generic code, in general, these are the same symptoms, differing only in the severity of the malfunction.

Troubleshooting Hyundai P0340 OBDII

• An important step is the availability of the necessary information from the manufacturer to repair the Hyundai model.
• While it's tempting to just install a new camshaft position sensor and wait for it to fix, there are more items that can cause a failure.
• You can test the sensor wiring system and each of the connections involved. They may show signs of corrosion, a short circuit, or breakage. Then replace if necessary.
• Using a multimeter, you can check the voltage readings from the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor. In case of irregularities, they must be replaced.
• Check the battery level as it may be low.

Causes of Hyundai DTC P0340

You can try the causes of a generic P0340 OBD2 code or brands like Toyota or Nissan.

Code P0340 Dodge

Code Description P0340 OBD2 Dodge

Code P0340 in Dodge vehicles can be a serious problem, requiring immediate attention, as it may cause even more damage if the vehicle is continued to be driven under such conditions.

Its description indicates "Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction". Where replacing the sensor is not always the solution.

What does the P0340 Dodge OBD2 trouble code mean?

Its meaning is very similar to the already mentioned and widely explained brands.

Symptoms of a P0340 Dodge Code

• Engine warning light on car dashboard.
• The engine constantly has difficulty starting and sometimes will not start.
• The engine may stop without warning during operation.
• You will notice an increase in gas mileage in your car, as well as possible black smoke from the exhaust pipe.

Troubleshooting Dodge P0340 OBDII Error

You can try a wide range of solutions from the brands we mentioned above. Being a universal code, you are sure to find the solution you need.

Cause of DTC P0340 Dodge

The reasons for this code P0340 in Dodge vehicles are the same as in vehicles from brands such as Toyota or Nissan.

How much does it cost to fix code P0340?

P0340 can be caused by anything from damaged wiring to a faulty sensor to a faulty ECM. It is impossible to give an accurate assessment without proper diagnosis of the problem.

If you take your vehicle to a workshop for diagnosis, most workshops will start at the hour of "diagnostic time" (time spent on diagnostics your specific problem). Depending on the cost of a labor hour in the workshop, this usually costs between $30 and $150. Many, if not most, shops will charge this diagnostic fee on any necessary repair if you ask them to do the repair for you. The workshop will then be able to give you an accurate repair estimate to fix the P0340 code.

Possible repair costs for P0340

Error code P0340 may require one or more of the following repairs to resolve the underlying problem. For each possible repair, the estimated cost of the repair includes the cost of the relevant parts and the cost of the labor required to complete the repair.

• Camshaft position sensor $120-300
• Crankshaft position sensor $190-$250
• ESM $ 1000- $ 1200
• Replacing the chain or timing belt $200-1000