P0349 moderate

Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

The P0349 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?: Short distances only
DIY difficulty: hard
Estimated cost: $80 - $400 (parts and labor)

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Common Symptoms

Intermittent stalling
Random misfires on bank 2
Check Engine Light comes on and off
Occasional extended cranking on startup
Engine hesitates randomly

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Loose or corroded bank 2 CMP sensor connector Very High
Intermittent break in CMP sensor wiring High
CMP sensor failing under heat High
Oil intermittently contaminating the connector Moderate
Worn cam reluctor wheel with intermittent signal gap Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Wiggle-test the bank 2 CMP sensor connector while monitoring signal for dropouts
Test sensor resistance when cold and again at operating temperature
Inspect for valve cover oil leaks that may intermittently reach the sensor connector
Monitor CMP signal during a road test with an oscilloscope
Replace the sensor and repair any damaged wiring or leaking gaskets

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P0349?

You can drive short distances. The intermittent nature means the engine may randomly stall or hesitate. Avoid situations where a stall would be dangerous.

Why does my CMP sensor only fail when the engine is hot?

Heat-related CMP sensor failures are common. The internal electronics of the sensor can break down at high temperatures, causing intermittent signal loss that clears when the sensor cools down.

Should I replace the valve cover gasket with the CMP sensor?

If the valve cover gasket is leaking oil onto the sensor area, replacing it along with the sensor prevents the new sensor from being contaminated and failing prematurely.