Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)
The P0344 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $80 - $350 (parts and labor)
Best-selling code reader on Amazon. Reads and clears check engine codes on any 1996+ vehicle. Under $30.
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Essential for diagnosing sensor codes, checking voltage, and testing circuits. Under $15 and pays for itself on the first job.
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Common Symptoms
- Intermittent engine stalling
- Random misfires
- Check Engine Light comes on and off
- Extended cranking on some startups
- Engine hesitates intermittently
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Loose or corroded CMP sensor connector Very High
- Intermittent break in CMP sensor wiring High
- CMP sensor failing under heat High
- Oil contamination causing intermittent signal disruption Moderate
- Worn cam reluctor wheel causing intermittent signal gaps Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Wiggle-test the CMP sensor connector while monitoring signal on a scan tool
-
Test sensor resistance when cold and hot to check for thermal failure
-
Inspect for oil leaks that may intermittently contaminate the sensor connector
-
Monitor CMP waveform during a road test with an oscilloscope to capture the intermittent fault
-
Replace the sensor and repair wiring if damage is found
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0344 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2000-2013 GM 4.8L/5.3L/6.0L LS-family easy DIY
Replace Bank 1 camshaft position sensor at rear of intake manifold. GM LS CMP sensor fails from heat -- sensor body cracks. Use AC Delco OEM part only (aftermarket sensors fail again within 30k miles). Add dielectric grease to connector.
Labor: 30 min2007-2013 GM 3.6L V6 (CTS, Equinox, Acadia) hard DIY
Intermittent P0344 on GM 3.6 is usually a timing chain stretch issue, NOT the sensor. Check chain with scan tool VVT data. If chain is stretched, full timing set required. If chain is within spec, replace Bank 1 CMP with AC Delco.
Labor: 6-8 hours2006-2015 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 4.8/5.3/6.0L moderate DIY
Check CMP connector for coolant intrusion from failed intake manifold gasket. LS trucks leak coolant onto the cam sensor connector. Clean with electrical cleaner, repair any corrosion, and replace intake gasket (Fel-Pro MS 98003 T).
Labor: 2 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0344?
You can drive short distances, but the engine may stall intermittently. Be prepared for occasional rough starting or hesitation. Repair soon to avoid being stranded.
Can a valve cover gasket leak cause P0344?
Yes. A leaking valve cover gasket can allow oil to reach the CMP sensor connector, causing intermittent signal disruption. Fixing the oil leak is often part of the repair.
How do I tell if the CMP sensor or wiring is the problem?
Wiggle testing while monitoring the signal helps. If the signal drops when the connector or wiring is moved, the wiring is likely at fault. If the fault only occurs when hot, the sensor is likely failing.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
P0344 on Diesel, EV & Equipment
The same code ID appears across other engines and platforms. The diagnostic flow varies by manufacturer — these are the platform-specific breakdowns:
See All Codes & Fixes for Your Vehicle
Explore More
Was this helpful?
Share carcodefinder.com with a friend who needs to decode their check engine light.