Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)
The P0345 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2). This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $100 - $400 (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
- Engine runs rough or misfires on bank 2
- Extended cranking on startup
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Reduced engine power
- Engine may stall
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Faulty camshaft position sensor on bank 2 Very High
- Damaged or corroded CMP sensor wiring or connector High
- Timing chain stretch or jump on bank 2 Moderate
- Oil contamination on sensor Moderate
- PCM CMP input circuit failure Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Verify CMP sensor bank 2 signal with a scan tool during cranking -- compare to bank 1
-
Test CMP sensor resistance and compare to manufacturer specification
-
Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion, oil contamination, or damage
-
Check the bank 2 timing chain for proper tension and alignment
-
Replace the CMP sensor if it fails electrical tests after wiring is verified good
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0345 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2002-2015 Nissan Altima/Maxima 3.5L VQ35DE Easy DIY
Bank 2 camshaft position sensor (exhaust side, rear of engine) has failed. This is the most commonly replaced sensor on VQ35DE engines. Replace with Hitachi CAM0016. The sensor is at the back of the passenger side cylinder head. Check the wiring connector for oil contamination from valve cover leaks. Apply dielectric grease to the connector after installation.
Labor: 30 min2009-2020 Ford F-150/Explorer 3.5L EcoBoost Easy DIY
Bank 2 cam position sensor failure. Located at the rear of the passenger side cylinder head. Replace with Motorcraft DU-114. If P0016 is also present, check for timing chain stretch before just replacing the sensor. On EcoBoost engines, worn cam phasers cause erratic cam position readings. Check for a rattling noise on startup.
Labor: 30-45 min2009-2019 Dodge Ram/Charger 5.7L Hemi Easy DIY
Bank 2 cam sensor on the Hemi is at the rear of the passenger side cylinder head. Replace with Mopar 5149025AA. Check the wiring harness for heat damage where it routes near the exhaust. If the code is intermittent, the connector may be corroded. On VVT-equipped Hemis, a failing cam phaser can also cause erratic cam position readings.
Labor: 30 min2005-2015 Nissan Frontier/Xterra 4.0L VQ40DE Easy DIY
Bank 2 cam sensor failure is very common on the VQ40DE. Located at the rear of the passenger side head. Replace with Hitachi CAM0016. Also check for a clogged oil screen in the timing chain tensioner that starves the chain and causes timing issues. If the engine rattles on cold start, the timing chain guides may need replacement.
Labor: 30-45 minFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0345?
You can drive short distances if the engine runs. Bank 2 fuel injection may default to batch-fire mode, causing rough running and poor performance.
What is the difference between P0340 and P0345?
P0340 refers to the CMP sensor on bank 1 (the side with cylinder 1). P0345 refers to the CMP sensor on bank 2 (the opposite side). V-engines have one CMP sensor per bank.
Can I replace the bank 2 CMP sensor without removing the intake manifold?
On many V-engines, the bank 2 CMP sensor is accessible from the top or rear of the engine without removing the intake. However, access varies significantly by vehicle.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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.