Fault code P0342 – camshaft position sensor “A” circuit low (Bank 1)

Fault code P0342 is called “Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Low (Bank 1)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P0342

The camshaft position sensor is an electronic device used in the engine to record the speed of the camshaft. This information is used by the engine control module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection.

Fault code P0342 – camshaft position sensor

The camshaft position sensor monitors the camshaft for specific cylinder identification and determines the piston position. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, usually a disc, and a static part, the actual sensor.

When the engine is running, the high and low parts of the cogs cause the gap to change with the sensor. A change in the gap causes a change in the magnetic field. And a change in the magnetic field causes a change in the voltage on the sensor.

When the crankshaft position sensor (POS) system fails. The camshaft position sensor provides different control of engine parts. By synchronizing the cylinder identification signals.

Automotive fault code P0342 is one of several common fault codes related to the camshaft position sensor (CPS). It means that the sensor signal is too low or not strong enough, so it is difficult to interpret.

P0342 refers to sensor “A” Bank 1. Bank 1 is the side of the engine that contains cylinder #1.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P0342 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

  1. Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the ECM memory as a fault).
  2. Decrease of engine power output.
  3. Ignition skips in the engine cylinders may occur. Also the car engine may run unstable.
  4. Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
  5. The engine may stall or not start well.
  6. Increased fuel consumption.

The vehicle is likely to run with the P0342 trouble code. But it may be difficult to start, and there may be a drop in power and unstable engine operation. To avoid damage to other engine components when this code is detected, it is advisable to correct the fault as soon as possible.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P0342 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

  • The camshaft position sensor wiring harness is broken or shorted.
  • Electrical connection between the sensor and ECM may be bad.
  • Camshaft position sensor is defective.
  • Low battery charge level.
  • Defective starter.

On some models, low battery voltage or weak starter may cause camshaft position sensor code P0342.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0342

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0342:

  1. Inspect wiring, looking for corrosion, poor connections, or worn insulation.
  2. Check the connector on the camshaft sensor. Look for corrosion and defects in the connector. Apply dielectric grease to the connection.
  3. Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  4. Test the condition of the battery. A low battery can cause a code to set.
  5. Check the starter for excessive traction, indicating weak recoil.

Often replacing the sensor will fix the P0342 error code, but not necessarily. Therefore, it is important to do a check of all items.

Diagnose and repair of problems

The first thing to do is to read all saved error codes with an OBD-II scanner. If there are no other malfunctions, proceed to solve the problem.

It is necessary to check wires, connectors and other electrical components of the system. If any defects are found, repair them. After that, you need to clear the error codes from the PCM memory again and recheck the system.

If the error code appears again, check the battery charge, and inspect the starter motor. Troubleshoot, then clear the error codes from the PCM memory again and recheck the system to see if error P0342 appears again.

This procedure should be performed every time after repairs have been made. This will help determine if the problem has been resolved.

Check the camshaft sensor itself, if it needs to be replaced. In most cases, these steps will help to resolve the problem with your vehicle.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P0342 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

  • Cadillac (CTS)
  • Chery (A15, Amulet)
  • Chevrolet
  • Citroen (C4)
  • Daewoo (Lanos, Leganza, Matiz, Nexia, Nubira)
  • Ford (F-150)
  • Hyundai (Accent)
  • Opel (Corsa, Frontera)
  • Peugeot (3008, 308)
  • Skoda (Fabia, Octavia)
  • Toyota
  • Volkswagen (Passat)
  • GAZelle
  • LADA (Kalina, Niva, Priora, Vesta)
  • UAZ
  • VAZ (2110, 2112, 2114, 2115)

Fault code P0342 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0008, P0022, P0335, P0340, P0341, P0343, P0345, P0346, P0347, P0348, P0349, P0365, P0366, P0367, P0368, P0369, P0390, P0391, P0392, P0393, P0394, P1133, P1396.

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