Meaning
The powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an anomaly in the camshaft position sensor (CPS) signal. This sensor transmits two critical pieces of information:
- Top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke
- The angular position of the camshaft
The code is triggered when the received signal does not match the expected values, often due to:
- An erratic or absent signal
- A mechanical misalignment
- Electromagnetic interference
Common Symptoms
- 🟠 Illumination of the check engine light (MIL)
- Extended or failed starts
- Unstable idle (if engine is running)
- Loss of power (“limp mode”)
- ⛽ Increased fuel consumption
- Possible engine stalling
Possible Causes
(Ranked by frequency)
| Cause | Failure Mechanism |
|---|---|
| 1. Electrical Issues | Wiring near spark plug wires (interference) |
| Oxidized/damaged connectors (CPS or PCM) | |
| Chafed/damaged wires | |
| 2. Component Failures | Faulty camshaft sensor |
| Damaged reluctor wheel | |
| 3. Other Origins | Incorrect engine timing |
| Spark plug/coil failure (false positive) |
Diagnostic Procedure
Step 1: Preliminary Checks
- Check the wiring condition:
- Distance from high-voltage components (spark plugs, coils)
- Absence of burns, exposed wires, or corrosion
- Inspect the connectors (CPS and PCM): bent/broken pins
Step 2: Mechanical Inspection
- Examine the reluctor wheel via the sensor housing (missing/deformed teeth)
- Check the sensor shaft play (misalignment fault)
Step 3: Advanced Tests
- Measure the CPS voltage (oscilloscope recommended):
- Expected square wave signal (amplitude 0-5V or 0-12V depending on model)
- Check the sensor resistance (manufacturer specifications)
- Analyze related codes (P0340, P0342, etc.)
⚠️ Special Case: On some engines without a physical CPS, this code often indicates ignition failures (spark plugs, coils, or HT wires).
Recommended Solutions
| Confirmed Failure | Intervention |
|---|---|
| Faulty wiring | Reroute/repair harnesses |
| Damaged connector | Replace the connector or plug |
| CPS sensor faulty | Replace the sensor (check gasket seal) |
| Damaged reluctor wheel | Replace the camshaft (costly) |
| Ignition problem | Test spark plugs/coils/HT wires |
Key Technical Data
- Timing tolerance: Deviation > 2-5° cam triggers the code
- Quick test: Disconnect the CPS at idle → Engine should stall (otherwise PCM fault)
- Statistics: 70% of P0341 codes are related to wiring or connectors (workshop data)
Critical recommendation: Always reset the PCM adaptations after repair. Use a diagnostic tool to clear the code and verify proper operation over 2 drive cycles.
Related Codes:
P0340 (Intermittent signal) – P0342 (Low signal) – P0343 (High signal)
P0345-P0349 (Bank 2 faults) – P0365-P0369 (Circuit “B” faults)