OBD-II P0341 Trouble Code
Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
Here is what P0341 means, in simple terms...
Trouble code P0341 means that the powertrain control module (PCM) detected a problem with the signal coming from the camshaft sensor. The camshaft position sensor (CPS) sends a wave signal (5 volts) to the PCM for every Top Dead Center (TDC) position of the compression stroke, as well as pulse waves indicating the position of the cam sensor. Signals are generated through a reluctor wheel attached to the camshaft. As certain points of the reluctor wheel pass by the camshaft sensor, the sensor regulates 5 volt reference voltage in a wave pattern. Anytime the camshaft sensor signal does not correspond to the signals received from the crankshaft sensor, the PCM sets a trouble code P0341.
What caused my vehicle to trigger a P0341 trouble code?
The PCM monitors the voltage from the camshaft sensor and if it detects an incorrect voltage or irregular wave pattern it will set an OBD-II trouble code P0341. Trouble code P0341 may indicate that one or more of the following has occurred:
- Defective wiring and/or connector camshaft sensor
- Defective wiring connection at PCM camshaft sensor input
- Defective camshaft sensor
- Damaged camshaft reluctor wheel
- Spark system interference (uncommon on later model vehicles)
What symptoms will my vehicle experience when trouble code P0341?
A P0341 trouble code will generally trigger the check engine light on. Depending on your vehicle's make, the check engine light may be referred to as the CEL, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or Service Engine Soon (SES) light. Freeze frame data containing information regarding engine sensor values at the time the ECM detected the P0341 fault will also be stored in the PCM's ROM memory and can be accessed via an OBD-II scan tool. Freeze frame data will be helpful to a technician when diagnosing the root cause of a P0341 trouble code when the fault is not easy to find. Possible symptoms include:
- MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) or Check Engine light illumination
- Engine stalls during stop and does not idle properly unless the gas pedal is depressed
- Engine stalls when letting off the gas pedal
- Engine may idle too high
- Engine may idle too low
- Poor fuel economy
- Possible no start condition
How can I fix a P0341 problem and where should I start?
Often replacing the camshaft sensor fixes trouble code P0341, however it is important to check the following first:
- Inspect the wiring at the camshaft sensor for melting or marks of corrosion
- Inspect the camshaft sensor for damage
- Inspect the camshaft reluctor wheel for missing or damaged teeth. You may need to remove the timing chain cover to inspect the reluctor wheel if it is not visible by removing the camshaft sensor
Can I drive my vehicle with a P0341 trouble code and illuminated CEL?
Trouble code P0341 should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Not recommended, however, you may drive your vehicle while trouble code P0341 is present unless the engine stall or stumbling is is severe enough to hinder proper vehicle operation. Erratic engine speed may be noticed.
