Possible Causes
NOTE: The listed causes may not be a complete list of all potential problems and there may be other causes.
- Engine mechanical condition – Valve timing disabled
- The camshaft sensor or crankshaft sensor are loose on their mount
- Faulty camshaft position sensor
- Faulty crankshaft position sensor
What does this mean?
Technical Notes
If this DTC started after recent internal engine repairs, check the engine mechanical timing. Once the camshaft cover is removed and cylinder #1 is at top dead center, ensure the darkened chain links are aligned with the alignment marks on the exhaust and intake camshaft gears.
If a P0016 or P1345 is reset without any engine performance issues but the above information has not isolated the cause of the DTC, replace the Cam Phaser actuator gear
Description
The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) is a permanent magnet generator, called a variable reluctance sensor. The sensor’s magnetic field is modified by a reluctance wheel mounted on the crankshaft that has seven machined slots, 6 of which are evenly spaced 60 degrees apart. The seventh slot is spaced 10 degrees after one of the 60-degree slots. The CKP sensor produces seven pulses for each crankshaft revolution. The pulse from the 10-degree slot is known as the synchronization pulse. The synchronization pulse is used to synchronize the ignition coil firing sequence with crankshaft position. The CKP sensor is connected to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by a signal circuit and a low reference circuit.The camshaft position sensor (CMP) is triggered by a notched reluctance wheel integrated into the exhaust camshaft gear. The CMP sensor provides 6 signal pulses per camshaft revolution. Each notch or feature of the reluctance wheel is a different size for identification of each cylinder. This means the CMP and crankshaft position (CKP) signals are pulse width encoded to allow the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to continuously monitor their relationship. This relationship is used to determine the camshaft actuator position and control its phasing to the correct value. The PCM also uses this signal to identify the compression stroke of each cylinder and for sequential fuel injection. The CMP sensor is connected to the PCM by a 12-volt signal and low reference circuit.
How to Repair
Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the wiring harness and related connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
Detected
The ECM detected that the cam sensor positions were out of timing
Possible Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on (or Service Engine Soon warning light)
- Engine hard to start
- Engine stalls while driving