P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Out of Range / Performance

Trouble Code P0341 OBD-II Datasheet

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Out of Performance Range

What does code P0341 mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although general, specific repair steps may differ depending on the brand / model.

This P0341 code basically means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a problem with the camshaft signal.

The Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS) sends a specific signal to the PCM for compression top dead center as well as signals indicating the position of the cam sensor. This is accomplished with a reaction wheel attached to the camshaft that runs past the cam sensor. This code is set whenever the signal to the PCM is incompatible with what the signal should be. NOTE: this code can also be set when cranking periods are increased.

Symptoms

The car will most likely work with this code set, as it often runs intermittently and also because the PCM can often limp / limp the vehicle even when there is a problem with the cam sensor signal. There may be no other noticeable symptoms other than:

• Poor fuel economy (if the engine is running)
• Possible non-start condition

What causes the P0341 code?

• The camshaft sensor pulses less than expected at a given engine speed compared to the crankshaft sensor.
• The wiring or connection to the speed sensor is shorted or the connection is broken.

Causes of the P0341 code

The P0341 code may mean that one or more of the following events have occurred:

• Cam sensor wiring is too close to spark plug wiring (causing interference)
• Bad wiring connection at the cam sensor
• Bad wiring connection on PCM
• Bad cam sensor
• The reactor wheel is damaged.

HOW DOES A MECHANIC DIAGNOSTIC CODE P0341?

• Scans codes and documents freeze frame data to confirm problem.
• Cleared the engine and ETC codes and did a road test to confirm the problems are coming back.
• Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor wiring and connectors for loose connections or damaged wires.
• Opens and checks the resistance and voltage of the signal from the camshaft position sensor.
• Checks for corrosion on sensor connections.
• Checks the sensor-reflex wheel for broken or damaged camshaft or camshaft gear.

Possible solutions

NOTE: In some cases, this engine code is generated on vehicles that do not actually have a camshaft position sensor. In these cases, it basically means the engine is skipping ignition due to faulty spark plugs, spark plug wires and often coils.

Often replacing the sensor will correct this code, but not necessarily. Therefore, it is important to check the following:

• Make sure the wiring is not routed too close to any secondary components of the ignition system (coil, spark plug wires, etc.).
• Visually inspect the sensor wiring for burn marks, discoloration, indicating melting or fraying.
• Inspect the cam sensor for damage.
• Visually inspect the reactor wheel through the cam sensor port (if applicable) for missing teeth or damage.
• If the reactor is not visible from the outside of the engine, a visual inspection can only be carried out by removing the camshaft or intake manifold (depending on engine design).
• If ok, replace the sensor.

Associated Camshaft Fault Codes: P0340, P0342, P0343, P0345, P0347, P0348, P0349, P0365, P0366, P0367, P0368, P0369, P0390, P0391, P0392, P0393, P0394.

COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0341

• Failure to inspect and remove the camshaft sensor to check for excessive metal on the sensor, which can result in erroneous or missing sensor readings.
• Replacing the sensor if the error cannot be duplicated

HOW SERIOUS CODE P0341 IS?

• A faulty camshaft sensor can cause the engine to run erratically, stall, or not start at all.
• An intermittent signal from the camshaft position sensor can cause the engine to run rough, stutter, or misfire while driving.
• The Check Engine Light indicates that the vehicle has failed the emissions test.

WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0341?

• Replacing a faulty camshaft sensor
• Replacing a broken retaining ring on the camshaft sprocket
• Repair corroded camshaft position sensor connections.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS REGARDING CODE P0341 CONSIDERATION

Code P0341 is triggered when the camshaft position sensor does not correlate with crankshaft position. The crankshaft position sensor should also be checked during the diagnostic checks for problems that could cause the code to be set.

How to Fix P0341 Engine Code in 3 Minutes [2 DIY Methods / Only $9.45]

Need more help with your p0341 code?

If you still need help with DTC P0341, post a question in the comments below this article.

NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.