P0345: Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 2)
P0345 means the engine computer is seeing a problem in the Bank 2 camshaft position sensor 'A' circuit, which can throw off fuel injection and ignition timing. The most common fix is repairing the sensor wiring or replacing the camshaft position sensor, usually about $150 to $450 at an independent shop.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Can I drive?
- Drive with caution
- DIY?
- Possible with some experience
- Repair cost range
- $120 – $1,800
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What does P0345 mean?
The camshaft position sensor tells the engine computer which cylinder bank is on its firing stroke so it can time fuel and spark correctly. On Bank 2, a fault in sensor 'A' or its wiring can make the signal drop out, read erratically, or not arrive at all. When that happens, the computer may use backup values and the engine can run poorly or not start. This code often appears after wiring damage, a failed sensor, or a problem with the connector or timing components.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Hard starting or no start
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Engine may stall
- Poor fuel economy
Causes, fixes and costs
P0345: Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 2)
General guide for most cars. Your car may differ.
The engine may run poorly, stall, or fail to start if the signal gets worse. Stop driving if the engine stalls while moving, runs extremely rough, or the check engine light starts flashing.
Most likely causes
- 1
Faulty camshaft position sensorHigh
A worn or failed sensor commonly causes hard starting, rough idle, stalling, or an intermittent check engine light. The code may come back after clearing it, especially if the engine runs better when cold than when hot.
Quick check: Inspect the sensor for oil contamination or damage, then compare live cam sensor data with a scan tool if available.
- 2
Damaged wiring or poor connector at Bank 2 sensorHigh
Intermittent stalling, no-start, or a code that appears and disappears often points to a broken wire, loose plug, or corrosion in the connector. Heat, vibration, or moving the harness may make the problem worse.
Quick check: Wiggle-test the harness with the engine idling, and look for broken insulation, bent pins, corrosion, or oil in the connector.
- 3
Timing chain or cam timing problemMedium
If the engine also has rough running, poor power, or codes for cam/crank correlation, the cam timing may be off rather than the sensor itself. A stretched chain, slipped belt, or bad phaser can confuse the sensor signal.
Quick check: Check for related timing codes and listen for chain noise; a shop can verify cam timing with scan data and mechanical inspection.
- 4
Failed PCM or software issueLow
If the sensor and wiring test good but the code keeps returning, the engine computer may not be processing the signal correctly. This is less common than a sensor or wiring fault.
Quick check: Confirm power, ground, and signal at the PCM before replacing it, and check for manufacturer service bulletins or reflash updates.
Can you fix it yourself?
Possible with some experience
Difficulty: Moderate. A basic sensor replacement is often doable if the sensor is easy to reach, but wiring diagnosis may need a scan tool and multimeter. You may need the sensor, gasket or O-ring if fitted, and access to the Bank 2 sensor location in the service manual.
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- Scan for all stored codes and record freeze-frame data.
- Inspect the Bank 2 cam sensor connector and harness for damage.
- Clear the code and see if it returns right away.
- If needed, unplug and replace the cam sensor.
- Secure the connector and route the harness away from heat and moving parts.
- Start the engine and recheck for codes and rough running.
- If the code returns, test the circuit or have the timing checked.
Estimated repair cost
$150 – $450
Camshaft position sensor replacement: parts ~$40-$180, labor ~$110-$270
- Repair cam sensor wiring or connector$120 – $400
- Cam timing inspection and repair$500 – $1,800
- Engine computer diagnosis or reflash$120 – $300
Prices vary by engine layout, parts quality, and shop labor rate.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0345?
Usually yes for a short time if the engine runs normally, but it is best to get it checked soon. If it starts stalling, running very rough, or hard-starting, stop driving and diagnose it right away.
Will P0345 cause a no-start?
Yes. If the cam sensor signal is missing or unstable enough, the engine may crank but not start, or start and die.
Can a bad battery cause P0345?
A weak battery can create low-voltage problems, but it is not the most common cause. If the battery or charging system is weak, check that first along with the sensor circuit.
Can I replace the camshaft position sensor myself?
Sometimes yes, if the sensor is easy to access and the connector is in good shape. If the code comes back after replacement, the problem is more likely wiring, timing, or the computer.
Will P0345 fail an emissions test?
In most states, yes, because the check engine light is on and the system readiness monitors may not be complete. The vehicle usually needs the fault fixed and the codes cleared before it can pass.
Related codes
- P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
- P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
- P0344 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Intermittent
- P0016 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
- P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit
- P0365 Camshaft Position Sensor B Circuit
This guide covers most cars and is general advice, not an inspection. Prices are typical US independent-shop ranges and vary by region, car and shop. If your brakes, steering or a warning light feel unsafe, stop driving and contact a mechanic.