Isuzu Code P1391: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Problem – Complete Guide

Meaning of Code P1391

The Isuzu P1391 code on Isuzu vehicles indicates a problem in the camshaft position sensor (CMP) circuit. This sensor plays a crucial role in synchronizing the fuel injection system and ignition.

Severity of the Problem

  • Moderate to High: This fault can cause:
    • ⚠️ Starting problems
    • 🚗 Poor engine performance
    • Increased fuel consumption
    • 🌫️ Increased pollutant emissions

Common Symptoms

  • 🚗 Engine idling irregularly
  • Loss of power during acceleration
  • ⚠️ Check engine light on
  • 🔥 Occasional misfires
  • 🔋 Cold weather starting problems

Possible Causes

  1. Electrical problems:
    • Faulty CMP sensor
    • Damaged wiring or corroded connectors
    • Short circuit or open circuit in the harness
  2. Mechanical problems:
    • Damaged camshaft gear wheel
    • Misaligned timing
  3. Other causes:
    • Power supply or grounding issue
    • Engine Control Module (ECM) failure

Diagnostic Procedure

Step 1: Visual Inspection

  • 🔍 Locate the CMP sensor (usually near the camshaft pulley)
  • 🔌 Check the condition of the connector and wiring
  • Look for signs of damage or corrosion

Step 2: Electrical Tests

  • 🔋 Check the sensor’s power supply (5V) and ground
  • 📏 Measure the sensor’s resistance (compare to specifications)
  • Test the output signal with an oscilloscope

Step 3: Mechanical Check

  • ⚙️ Inspect the gear wheel for missing or damaged teeth
  • 🔧 Check the timing alignment

Step 4: Advanced Diagnostics

  • 💻 Use an OBD-II scanner to:
    • Read live sensor data
    • Check for associated codes
    • Analyze the CMP signal graph

Common Repairs

  • 🔧 Replace the faulty CMP sensor
  • 🔌 Repair or replace damaged wiring
  • ⚙️ Correct the timing alignment if necessary
  • 💻 Update the ECM software if required

Prevention Tips

  • 🛠️ Replace the CMP sensor as part of preventive maintenance
  • 🔍 Regularly inspect wiring and connectors
  • Use quality OEM parts

Average Repair Cost

  • CMP sensor: €50-€150
  • Labor: €50-€150
  • *Estimated total: €100-€300*

Conclusion

The P1391 code on Isuzu requires immediate attention to avoid potential engine damage. Accurate diagnosis will identify the exact cause and allow for appropriate repairs.

🔧 Professional tip: If you are not familiar with electrical diagnostics, consult a qualified mechanic specialized in Isuzu vehicles.

🚗 Is your Isuzu displaying this code? Share your experience in the comments to help other owners!

Jeep Code P1391: Camshaft/Crankshaft Timing Synchronization Problem Diagnosis

Technical Meaning

The Jeep P1391 code on Jeep vehicles indicates a desynchronization between the camshaft position sensor (CMP) and crankshaft position sensor (CKP) signals. This fault disrupts engine management by affecting:

  • ⏱️ Injection timing
  • 🔥 Ignition control
  • ⚙️ Valve timing

Severity and Consequences

Level Impact
Moderate Unstable idle, power loss
High Risk of stalling, catalytic damage

Characteristic Symptoms

  • 🚗 Hard starting (especially when cold)
  • Random misfires
  • Excessive fuel consumption up to 20%
  • 🌡️ Abnormal overheating
  • ⚠️ Check Engine light on + limp mode

Probable Causes Tree

Diagram

Advanced Diagnostic Procedure

1. Electrical Check (Tools: Multimeter, Oscilloscope)

  • CMP resistance test: 200-1000Ω (refer to manual)
  • CKP/CMP signal: Check pulse alternation
  • Sensor power supply: 5V ±0.5V

2. Mechanical Check

  • 🔧 Chain tension: Max 5mm play
  • ⚙️ Timing mark alignment
  • 🔍 Sprocket inspection (broken teeth)

3. ECM Diagnosis

  • 💻 Software update
  • 🔋 ECU power test (stable 12V)

Specific Jeep Cases

  • Wrangler JK 3.8L: Recurrent CMP connector issue exposed to elements
  • Grand Cherokee 4.7L: Premature chain tensioner wear
  • Renegade 1.4T: Sensitivity to voltage variations

Average Repair Costs

Intervention Parts Cost Labor
CMP replacement 80-150€ 0.5h
Chain replacement 300-600€ 4-6h
ECM reprogramming 100-200€ 1h

Technical Tips

  1. Priority: Always check wiring first before condemning a sensor
  2. Tip: Use an oscilloscope to compare CMP/CKP signals
  3. Prevention: Replace chain every 150,000km on Pentastar engines

Common Mistakes

  • 🔌 Neglecting sensor connector (frequent corrosion)
  • ⏳ Forgetting to reset ECM adaptation after repair
  • 🔄 Confusing with ignition coil problem

Important note: On recent Jeeps (after 2015), this code may require mandatory software update before any other intervention.

Mitsubishi Code P1391: Camshaft/Crankshaft Synchronization Problem

Technical Meaning

The Mitsubishi P1391 code on Mitsubishi vehicles indicates a fault in synchronization between the camshaft position sensor (CMP) and crankshaft position sensor (CKP) signals. This issue primarily affects:

  • 🕒 Injection timing
  • Ignition control
  • 🔧 Variable valve timing management (MIVEC on certain models)

Severity and Consequences

Level Impact
Moderate Unstable idle, slight power loss
High Risk of stalling, catalyst damage

Mitsubishi-Specific Symptoms

  • 🚗 Hard starting (especially on Lancer and Outlander)
  • ⚠️ Check Engine light flashing + “Limp Home” mode
  • Noticeable increase in fuel consumption
  • 🔊 Metallic knocking (if timing belt issue)

Model-Specific Causes

For 4G6 engines (Lancer EVO)

  • Faulty CMP sensor (common issue)
  • Premature timing belt wear
  • Hydraulic tensioner problem

For 6B3 engines (Outlander)

  • Connector corrosion (low sensor position)
  • Excessive timing chain play
  • MIVEC variable phasing failure

For 4N1 engines (recent ASX)

  • Sensitivity to voltage variations
  • ECM software update required

Diagnostic Procedure

Step 1: Electrical Check

  1. Sensor testing:
    • CMP resistance: 400-800Ω (at 20°C)
    • CKP signal: Check for clean square wave
  2. Wiring check:
    • Measure continuity between ECM and sensors
    • Verify no short circuit to ground

Step 2: Mechanical Check

  • 🔍 Timing mark alignment
  • ⚙️ Belt/chain tension (5-6mm max deflection)
  • 🔧 Condition of sprockets and guides (abnormal wear)

Step 3: ECM Diagnosis

  • 💻 Live data reading:
    • Real-time CMP/CKP comparison
    • Calculated phase shift verification
  • 🔄 Software update (often required on Pajero IV)

Recommended Solutions

For Common Models

  1. CMP sensor replacement (part # MD614602 for Lancer)
  2. Connector cleaning + dielectric grease application
  3. Timing adjustment with Mitsubishi special tools

For Recurring Problems

  • Complete timing kit (including hydraulic tensioner)
  • ECM reprogramming (update TSB 18-46-003)

Average Repair Costs

Intervention Parts Cost Labor
CMP Sensor 90-180€ 0.8h
Timing Belt 120-250€ 3.5h
Reprogramming 80-150€ 1h

Specific Technical Tips

  1. Always use OEM parts for sensors
  2. Systematically check phasing after intervention
  3. On Outlander PHEV: Disconnect HV power before diagnosis

Common Mistake: Neglecting water pump inspection during timing belt replacement (causing subsequent overheating)

⚠️ Warning: On Mitsubishi Diesel (4N1), this code may mask a rail pressure sensor problem. Always check associated codes.

Saab P1391 Fault Code – Causes and Solutions

Meaning of Saab P1391 Code

The P1391 code on a Saab is generally related to a problem with the Camshaft Position Monitor (CMP) system. It may indicate misalignment between the crankshaft and camshaft, or a malfunction of the camshaft position sensor (CMP).

Possible Causes

  1. Timing Issue: The timing belt may be misaligned or worn.
  2. Faulty CMP Sensor: The camshaft position sensor may be damaged or dirty.
  3. Electrical Problem: Damaged wires, corroded connectors, or short circuit.
  4. Timing Adjuster Issue (if applicable).
  5. Engine Control Unit (ECU) Problem – Rare, but possible.

Diagnosis and Solutions

  1. Check the Timing Belt:
    • Inspect alignment and tension.
    • If worn or jumped, replace it.
  2. Test the CMP Sensor:
    • Check resistance and signal with a multimeter.
    • Clean or replace the sensor if necessary.
  3. Inspect the Wiring:
    • Look for broken wires or corroded connectors.
  4. Reset the Fault:
    • Clear the code with an OBD2 tool and see if it returns.
  5. Check the ECU:
    • If the problem persists, reprogramming or replacing the ECU may be necessary.

Conclusion

The P1391 code on a Saab is often related to a timing issue or CMP sensor problem. A thorough inspection of the timing system and electrical components is required to resolve the issue.

Suzuki P1391 Fault Code – Causes and Solutions

The Suzuki P1391 code on a Suzuki vehicle is typically related to a problem with the synchronization between the crankshaft and the camshaft or a malfunction of the camshaft position sensor (CMP). This fault can affect engine performance and illuminate the check engine light (CEL).


1. Meaning of Code P1391

The P1391 code means:

  • “Correlation Error Between the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) and the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP)”
  • The engine control unit (ECU) detects an abnormal discrepancy between the signals from the two sensors.

Affected Suzuki Models (among others):

  • Suzuki Swift
  • Suzuki Grand Vitara
  • Suzuki SX4
  • Suzuki Baleno

2. Possible Causes of P1391

A. Mechanical Problems

  • Misaligned timing belt (off by one or more notches)
  • Stretched or worn timing chain (if the engine is equipped with one)
  • Problem with the tensioner or timing pulleys

B. Electrical/Sensor Problems

  • Faulty camshaft position sensor (CMP)
  • Defective crankshaft position sensor (CKP)
  • Damaged/corroded wires or connectors

C. Other Possible Causes

  • Engine oil problem (insufficient pressure affecting the timing actuator)
  • Problem with the variable valve timing (VVT) actuator (if the engine is equipped with one)
  • ECU failure (rare)

3. Diagnosis and Solutions

Step 1: Check the Timing Belt/Chain

  • Check the alignment of the marks (crankshaft and camshaft).
  • If the belt/chain is worn or misaligned, replace it and correctly realign the timing.

Step 2: Test the CKP and CMP Sensors

  • Disconnect and measure the resistance with a multimeter (check the manual specifications).
  • Clean the sensors (sometimes dirt can interfere with the signal).
  • Replace the faulty sensor if necessary.

Step 3: Inspect the Wiring and Connectors

  • Check for cut, chafed, or corroded wires.
  • Clean the connectors with electrical contact cleaner spray.

Step 4: Check the Engine Oil and VVT Actuator

  • Check the oil level and quality (oil that is too old can clog the VVT system).
  • If the engine has a VVT system, check its operation.

Step 5: Reset the Fault and Test

  • Clear the code with an OBD2 tool and see if it returns after a road test.
  • If the code reappears, check the ECU (rare but possible failure).

4. Conclusion

The P1391 code on Suzuki typically indicates a engine timing problem (timing system or sensors).

  • Priority 1: Check the timing belt/chain.
  • Priority 2: Test the CKP/CMP sensors and their wiring.

If the problem persists after these checks, a more in-depth analysis with an advanced scanner may be necessary.

Volkswagen Code P1391 – Diagnosis and Solutions

The Volkswagen P1391 code on a Volkswagen (Golf, Passat, Polo, Tiguan, etc.) generally indicates a problem with the correlation between the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and the camshaft position sensor (CMP). This fault can lead to rough idling, loss of power, or even the engine entering a limp mode.


1. Meaning of the P1391 code on Volkswagen

The P1391 code means:

  • “Disagreement between the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and camshaft position sensor (CMP) signals”
  • The ECU detects that the two sensors are not synchronized as expected.

Affected Volkswagen models (among others):

  • VW Golf (4, 5, 6, 7)
  • VW Passat (B5, B6, B7)
  • VW Polo (9N, 6R, 6C)
  • VW Tiguan (1G, 2G)
  • VW Jetta, Touran, Scirocco

2. Possible causes of P1391 on Volkswagen

A. Mechanical problems

  • Incorrectly timed timing belt (off by one or more teeth)
  • Stretched timing chain or faulty tensioner (on chain-driven engines, like the 1.4 TSI or 2.0 TDI)
  • Problem with the tensioner pulley or worn chain guide

B. Sensor failure

  • Faulty camshaft position sensor (CMP)
  • Defective crankshaft position sensor (CKP)
  • Dirty or damaged sensor (oil, debris)

C. Electrical problems

  • Cut wires, oxidized connectors, or short circuits
  • Poor sensor supply voltage

D. Other possible causes

  • Problem with the variable valve timing (VVT) actuator if present
  • Insufficient or poor-quality engine oil (affects VVT)
  • ECU failure (rare but possible)

3. Diagnosis and solutions

Step 1: Check the timing belt/chain

  • Check the alignment of the timing marks (crankshaft and camshaft).
  • If the belt/chain is misaligned, worn, or loose, replace and recalibrate it.
  • On chain-driven engines (e.g., 1.4 TSI, 2.0 TDI), check the condition of the chain and tensioner.

Step 2: Test the CKP and CMP sensors

  • Use a multimeter to check the resistance (reference: technical manual).
  • Clean the sensors (often soiled by oil).
  • Replace the faulty sensor if necessary.

Step 3: Inspect the wiring and connectors

  • Check for broken or oxidized wires between the sensors and the ECU.
  • Clean the connectors with contact spray.

Step 4: Check the variable valve timing (VVT) and engine oil

  • Check the oil level and quality (oil that is too old can block the VVT).
  • If the engine has a VVT system, check its proper operation.

Step 5: Reset the fault and test

  • Clear the code with VCDS (VAG-COM) or an OBD2 tool.
  • Perform a road test to see if the code returns.
  • If the problem persists, check the ECU (in-depth diagnosis required).

4. Conclusion

The P1391 code on Volkswagen is often related to:
A timing issue (timing belt/chain) → Check the belt/chain.
A faulty CMP or CKP sensor → Test and replace if necessary.
An electrical problem (wires, connectors) → Inspect the wiring.

Fault Code P1392 – Diagnosis and Solutions

The default code P1392 is a generic OBD-II code related to a problem with synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft, similar to P1391 but with specificities depending on the manufacturer. It can affect engine performance and trigger the “Check Engine” light.


1. Meaning of Code P1392

The code P1392 generally means:

  • “Error in correlation between the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and the camshaft position sensor (CMP)”
  • “Engine timing or synchronization problem”

Difference between P1391 and P1392:

  • P1391 → Slight desynchronization (e.g., off by one tooth).
  • P1392 → More significant desynchronization (e.g., multiple teeth off or serious mechanical issue).

2. Possible Causes of P1392

A. Mechanical Problems (most common)

🔧 Misaligned timing belt/chain (misalignment, slippage, wear)
🔧 Faulty chain tensioner or guide (chain engines)
🔧 Stuck or faulty variable valve timing (VVT) actuator

B. Sensor Failures

📡 Faulty camshaft position sensor (CMP)
📡 Defective crankshaft position sensor (CKP)
📡 Dirty or damaged sensors

C. Electrical Problems

🔌 Cut wires, oxidized connectors, or short circuits
🔌 Sensor power supply issue

D. Other Causes

🛢️ Insufficient or poor-quality engine oil (affects VVT)
💻 ECU failure (rare)


3. Diagnosis and Solutions

Step 1: Check the Timing Belt/Chain

  • Check alignment marks (crankshaft and camshaft).
  • If the belt/chain is misaligned or worn, replace and recalibrate it.
  • On chain engines (e.g., VW 1.4 TSI, BMW N20): check for stretching and the tensioner.

Step 2: Test the CKP and CMP Sensors

  • Measure resistance with a multimeter (specific values per model).
  • Clean or replace faulty sensors.

Step 3: Inspect Wiring and Connectors

  • Check for broken or oxidized wires.
  • Clean connectors with contact spray.

Step 4: Check the VVT Actuator and Engine Oil

  • Check oil level and quality (old oil can block VVT).
  • If the VVT is faulty, replace it.

Step 5: Reset and Test

  • Clear the code with an OBD2 tool.
  • Perform a road test to see if the code returns.

4. Affected Manufacturers (examples)

  • Volkswagen/Audi/Seat/Skoda: Timing or sensor issues.
  • BMW/Mini: Stretched timing chain (e.g., N47/N63 engines).
  • Toyota/Lexus: Faulty VVT-i actuator.
  • Honda: Timing or CMP sensor problem.

5. Conclusion

The code P1392 generally indicates:
A timing issue (timing system) → Check belt/chain.
A faulty CMP/CKP sensor → Test and replace.
An electrical or VVT problem → Inspect wiring and oil.

⚠️ If the problem persists after checking, professional diagnosis with an oscilloscope may be necessary.

Acura P1392 Trouble Code – Complete Diagnostic

Acura Fault Code P1392 – Complete Diagnostic

(Applicable to Acura/Honda models: TL, MDX, RSX, Integra, etc.)


1. Specific Meaning for Acura

Code P1392 on Acura indicates:
“Problem with correlation between CKP (crankshaft) and CMP (camshaft) sensors – Intermittent Circuit”

➡️ This code is often associated with:

  • Temporary or permanent desynchronization between the two sensors
  • An intermittent electrical issue (more common than with P1391)
  • Early wear of the timing chain (on some engines)

2. Priority Causes for Acura

(Ranked in order of probability)

A. Electrical Problems (60% of cases)

  • 📍 Loose or corroded CMP sensor connector (typical on 2000s Acura models)
  • 📍 Rubbing of the wiring harness (especially on MDX 2001-2006)
  • 📍 CMP sensor starting to weaken

B. Mechanical Problems (30% of cases)

  • ⚙️ Excessive timing chain play (J-series V6 engines)
  • ⚙️ Worn timing chain tensioner
  • ⚙️ VTEC actuator problem

C. Other Causes (10%)

  • 🔋 Poor power supply voltage (check alternator)
  • 💻 ECU software issue (requires flash)

3. Step-by-Step Acura-Specific Diagnostic

Step 1 – Quick Check

  1. Disconnect/reconnect the CMP connector (often under the engine cover)
  2. Clean contacts with WD-40 Contact Cleaner
  3. Perform a road test

If the code returns →

Step 2 – Advanced Tests

Test Method Correct Values
CMP Resistance Multimeter on terminals 1-2 350-700 Ω (depending on model)
CMP Signal Oscilloscope preferred Regular square signal
Power Supply Measure voltage on + wire 12V with ignition on

Step 3 – Mechanical Check

  1. Remove timing chain inspection plug (if present)
  2. Check chain tension with Honda HDS diagnostic tool
  3. Inspect hydraulic tensioner condition

4. Most Common Solutions

  • On RSX/Integra Type-S: Replace CMP sensor gasket (frequent oil leak)
  • On MDX/TL 3.2L/3.5L: Tighten ECU connectors + preventive tensioner replacement
  • On VTEC models: Complete oil change + synthetic 5W-30 oil

5. Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Do not confuse with P0341 (CMP circuit problem)
❌ Do not ignore the code – can lead to serious misfire issues
❌ Avoid aftermarket sensors – prefer Denso or OEM


6. Most Affected Acura Models

  • MDX 2001-2006 (3.5L V6) – Connector issues
  • RSX 2002-2006 – Oil leak on CMP
  • TL 1999-2003 (3.2L) – Timing chain tensioner wear

Average repair cost:

  • $50-200 for simple electrical issue
  • $400-800 for chain/tensioner replacement

Audi P1392 Fault Code – Complete Diagnostic and Repair Guide

1. Meaning of Audi Code P1392

Code P1392 corresponds to:
“Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) and Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Mismatch – Intermittent Error”

This fault indicates that the engine control unit (ECU) detects a temporary or permanent inconsistency between the signals from the two sensors, which can disrupt:

  • Ignition timing
  • Fuel injection
  • VVT system management (if equipped)

⚠️ Risks:

  • Unstable idle
  • Loss of power
  • Catalytic converter damage
  • In severe cases, piston-valve collision (on some interference engines)

2. Possible Causes of P1392 on Audi

(Ranked by frequency)

A. Electrical Problems (50% of cases)

  • Faulty CMP sensor (camshaft) (common on 2.0 TFSI)
  • Intermittent CKP sensor (crankshaft)
  • Damaged wires or connectors (oxidation, chafing)
  • Poor electrical ground

B. Mechanical Problems (35% of cases)

  • Stretched timing chain (1.8T, 2.0T, 3.0T engines)
  • Worn chain tensioner or guide
  • Variable valve timing (VVT) actuator problem
  • Oil pump failure (insufficient pressure)

C. Other Causes (15%)

  • Timing issue after engine reassembly
  • Defective ECU (rare)
  • Engine oil too old or poor quality

3. Step-by-Step Diagnosis

Step 1: Data Reading with VCDS/OBD2

  • Check real-time values of CKP/CMP sensors
  • Look for associated codes (e.g., P0016, P0340)

Step 2: Visual Inspection

  • Check sensor connectors (CMP often near cylinder head, CKP near flywheel)
  • Inspect wiring condition (especially near hot components)

Step 3: Sensor Testing

Sensor Test Normal Value
CMP Resistance 500-1500 Ω (depending on model)
CKP Voltage (AC) 0.5-3V during cranking
Power Supply +12V Voltage 12V with ignition ON

Step 4: Mechanical Check

  1. Check chain tension (special tool or sprocket marking)
  2. Inspect tensioner and guides
  3. Verify oil pressure (min. 2 bars at idle)

4. Recommended Repairs by Model

Audi A4/A5/Q5 (2.0 TFSI)

  • Recurring problem: Stretched chain after 120,000 km
  • Solution: Chain kit + tensioner (approx. €800-1200)

Audi A6/A7/Q7 (3.0 TDI)

  • Frequent problem: CMP sensor flooded with oil
  • Solution: Replace sensor + gasket (€150-300)

Audi TT/TTS (1.8T)

  • Known issue: CMP harness chafed near exhaust
  • Solution: Repair wiring + heat shield

5. Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the code → Risk of engine damage
Using low-quality sensors → Prefer Bosch or OEM
Forgetting to check oil → An oil change may solve the problem


6. Average Repair Costs

Problem Cost (parts + labor)
CMP sensor replacement €150-400
Complete chain kit €800-2000
Connector cleaning €50-100

7. FAQ

Q: Can I drive with a P1392?
No, except to go to the garage. Risk of engine damage.

Q: The code returns after clearing, what to do?
→ Check timing chain and sensors with an oscilloscope.

Q: Is it related to the timing belt?
→ No, except on very old models. Most recent Audis have a chain.


Conclusion

Code P1392 on Audi requires verification in 3 steps:

  1. Electrical diagnosis (sensors, wiring)
  2. Mechanical check (chain, tensioner)
  3. Oil/ECU verification

🔧 For accurate diagnosis, specify:

  • Exact model and year
  • Mileage
  • Associated codes

(This article is valid for most gasoline and diesel Audis. Consult a professional for a tailored diagnosis.)

Buick P1392 Fault Code – Complete Diagnostic and Solutions

1. Meaning of Buick Code P1392

The P1392 code indicates an inconsistency between the signals from the camshaft position sensor (CMP) and the crankshaft sensor (CKP).

  • OBD-II Translation: “CKP/CMP Correlation Error – Intermittent Circuit”
  • Consequences: Incorrect stalling, unstable idle, power loss, risk of engine damage (on interference engines).

2. Affected Buick Models

This fault frequently appears on:

  • Buick Regal (1997-2004, 2011-2017)
  • Buick LaCrosse (2005-2009, 2010-2016)
  • Buick Century (1997-2005)
  • Buick Enclave (2008-2017)

(Especially common on 3.1L V6, 3.8L V6, and 2.0T L4 engines)


3. Possible Causes (Ranked by Probability)

Cause Frequency Associated Symptoms
1. Faulty CMP Sensor 40% Hard starting, engine hiccup
2. Timing Chain Problem 30% Metallic noise, power loss
3. Defective Wiring/Connector 20% Intermittent code, flashing light
4. Engine Oil Problem 5% Low oil pressure, faulty VVT
5. ECU Failure 5% Multiple codes, electrical issues

4. Step-by-Step Diagnosis

🔧 Step 1: Quick Check

  • 1.1 Check the oil level and condition (dirty oil can block the VVT).
  • 1.2 Visually inspect the CMP sensor connector (often located on the cylinder head).

📊 Step 2: Sensor Testing

  • 2.1 Measure the CMP resistance:
  • Normal values: 500-1500 Ω (depending on model).
  • 2.2 Check the CKP signal with an oscilloscope (if possible).

🔌 Step 3: Wiring Inspection

  • 3.1 Look for chafed/cut wires near the engine block.
  • 3.2 Test continuity between sensors and ECU.

⚙️ Step 4: Mechanical Check (If necessary)

  • 4.1 Check chain tension (sprocket markings).
  • 4.2 Listen for abnormal noise from the chain tensioner.

5. Recommended Solutions

🛠️ For Buick 3.8L V6 (L36/L67)

  • Common problem: CMP sensor submerged in oil.
  • Solution: Replace the sensor (ACDelco #213-4439) + clean the connector.

🛠️ For Buick 2.0T (LHU)

  • Known issue: Stretched timing chain.
  • Solution: Chain kit + tensioner (approx. $600-1000).

🛠️ For Buick 3.1L V6 (LG8)

  • Recurring problem: Oxidized CMP connector.
  • Solution: Contact cleaning + dielectric spray.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the code → Risk of engine damage (on interference engines).
Using low-quality sensors → Prefer ACDelco or Delphi.
Forgetting to check the oil → An oil change may solve the problem.


7. Average Repair Costs

Repair Cost (USD)
CMP Sensor Replacement $80-200
Complete Chain Kit $600-1200
Wiring Repair $100-300

8. FAQ

Q: Can I drive with a P1392?
No, except to go to the garage. Risk of engine damage.

Q: The code returns after clearing, what to do?
→ Check the chain and sensors with an oscilloscope.

Q: Is it related to the timing belt?
→ No, except on very old models. Most recent Buicks have a chain.


9. Conclusion

The P1392 code on Buick requires:

  1. Electrical verification (sensors, wiring).
  2. Mechanical check (chain, tensioner).
  3. Professional diagnosis if the problem persists.

🔧 For an accurate diagnosis, specify:

  • Exact model and year (e.g., Regal 2012 2.0T)
  • Mileage
  • Other symptoms (noises, power loss)

(Consult a certified GM mechanic for timing chain engines.)