Audi Fault Code P1393 – Complete Technical Guide

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1. Specific Meaning of Audi P1393

The P1393 code on Audi vehicles indicates:
“Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Circuit Performance Malfunction – Bank 1”

Audi Specifics:

  • Primarily affects FSI, TFSI, and TDI engines
  • Can disrupt the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system
  • Impacts engine performance and fuel consumption

2. Affected Audi Models

Model Engine Years Critical Mileage
A4 2.0T FSI (EA888) 2008-2016 80,000-140,000 km
A6 3.0T TFSI (EA839) 2017-2023 60,000-100,000 km
Q5 2.0TDI (EA189) 2009-2017 120,000-180,000 km
A3 1.8T (EA888 Gen3) 2014-2020 70,000-120,000 km

3. Main Causes

A. Electrical Problems (70%)

  • Faulty CMP sensor (Audi ref. 06F-907-311-C)
  • Damaged wiring (critical area: engine harness routing)
  • Oxidized connector (T14a/T17a)
  • Power supply issue (voltage outside 4.5-5.5V)

B. Mechanical Problems (25%)

  • Metal deposits on the tone wheel
  • Excessive play in the camshaft
  • Timing chain problem (stretching)

C. Other Causes (5%)

  • ECU failure (rare)
  • Electromagnetic interference
  • Contaminated engine oil

4. Diagnostic Procedure

Step 1 – Initial Checks

  1. Check oil level (VW 502/505 viscosity)
  2. Visual inspection of CMP sensor and wiring
  3. Check for associated codes (P0340, P0016, etc.)

Step 2 – Electrical Tests

Test Method Normal Values
Supply voltage Multimeter (ignition ON) 5V ±0.5V
CMP resistance Multimeter (disconnected) 500-1500 ohms
Output signal Oscilloscope (VCDS ideal) Clean square wave

Step 3 – Advanced Checks

  1. CMP data analysis with VCDS/ODIS
  2. Mechanical timing verification
  3. Circuit continuity test to ECU

5. Specific Solutions

For EA888 (2.0T FSI)

  • CMP sensor replacement (revised version)
  • Harness inspection (common chafing area)
  • ECU connector cleaning

For EA839 (3.0T TFSI)

  • Timing adjuster verification
  • Chain tension check
  • Software update

For EA189 (2.0TDI)

  • Tone wheel cleaning
  • Oil pump verification
  • CMP seal replacement

6. Technical Data

  • Sensor torque: 9 Nm
  • Inspection interval: 100,000 km
  • Minimum oil pressure: 2.0 bar (hot idle)

7. Repair Costs

Service Cost (EUR) Warranty
Sensor replacement 150-300€ 2 years
Wiring repair 200-500€ 1 year
Audi diagnostic 90-180€

8. Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using non-OEM sensors (40% failure rate)
  • Neglecting wiring inspection
  • Forgetting to reset adaptations

9. Technical FAQ

Q: Risk to the engine?
→ Possible VVT damage if ignored

Q: Can I drive temporarily?
→ Maximum 50 km at low RPM

Q: Difference between P1393 and P0340?
→ P1393 = performance issue, P0340 = open circuit

10. Post-Repair Procedure

  1. Clear codes with VCDS
  2. Perform break-in cycle:
  • 20 min at 2000-2500 RPM
  • 3 engine starts/stops
  1. Check CMP parameters

11. Prevention Tips

  • Strict oil changes (15,000 km max)
  • Annual wiring inspection
  • Use of specific Audi oil
  • Connector cleaning every 2 years

12. Conclusion

To resolve P1393 on Audi:

  1. Complete diagnosis with VCDS/ODIS
  2. Thorough electrical verification
  3. Use of Audi/VW OEM parts

⚠️ Important: Recurring problems often require full engine harness inspection. Consult a certified Audi technician for complex cases.

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