Guide To P0342 OBD Error Code Solutions

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A sudden affect in the engine performance along with occasional engine stalling and not starting may be an indication of problem with the camshaft, thus indicating OBD Code P0342 error where “A” is an indicative of camshaft position sensor number A for Bank 1.

The camshaft position sensor sends signal to the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control module in other vehicle makes) regarding its position based on how the ‘teeth’ or notches on the camshaft interrupt its magnetic field. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine. If this input is too low than the specified range by the manufacturer, or otherwise incorrect, the PCM will not have the right amount of information to provide the proper timing for such functions.

What causes this problem with the Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input?

• Poor wiring connection to the cam sensor
• Poor broken or corroded connections to the sensor or the circuit
• Faulty camshaft position sensor
• Poor wiring connection at PCM
• Bad crankshaft sensor
• Damaged reluctor wheel

1. Camshaft Sensor - One of the major problems may arise with the camshaft sensor. It is the first thing checked by the technician. Visit us today to get all camshaft related replacement parts.
2. Powertrain Control Module - The most frequent problems can always be due to faulty powertrain module sensors and wiring. Find all the Powertrain related parts with us.
3. Timing Belt and Pulleys - Faulty engine timing belt and its parts are a direct problem to the engine’s performance. Immediately replace the damaged components.
4. Diagnostic Tool - In order to be that DIY guy, you need few diagnostic tools to get your car problems pointed out easily. Our diagnostic tools collection will come handy to do so, so why not have a look?
5. Starter Motor - Faulty starter motor will lead to engine misfires and stalling. Replace the old starter motor now!
6. Car Battery & Cables - Check for damaged and affected car battery and cables and replace as needed to resolve this OBD code error.
7. Ignition Spark Plug - These are the parts to be check for faults first and replace quickly and are also cheap to replace. Buy and replace with new spark plugs now!

It is vital to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P0342 here:

Common Symptoms

• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Engine stalling or not starting
• Engine misfires and may buck or jerk while driving for an intermittent connection
• Engine may not start or have low power if it does start

The repairs which you will have to do to correct this fault code are simply straightforward; you can surely pinpoint the necessary repairs on the basis of your diagnosis. Have a look at some common fixes:

• Faulty camshaft sensor replacement
• Broken reluctor ring on the camshaft gear replacement
• Corroded connections to the camshaft sensor repair/replacement

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of Camshaft Position Sensor, Powertrain Control Module, Ignition spark, Battery, Starter Motor and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

P0342 is properly diagnosed with an advanced scan tool capable of factory sensor readings (not just one from an auto parts store). A qualified technician can read the data from the advanced scan tool to determine when the problem occurred, or if it is still occurring. They may clear the code/light and test drive the vehicle while monitoring the scan tool data to see if the fault returns or is present.

Based upon the conditions of the test, possibly clearing the code, and road testing the car while monitoring the data, further diagnosis may be required. Diagnosis may require multiple tools such as:

• Verify the code by hooking the vehicle up to an OBD-II scanner and check for other codes.
• Record the data along with freeze frame data, and the codes are then cleared to see if they reoccur.
• Wiring and connectors to be checked for loose connections, corrosion, or shorts. Test the camshaft and crankshaft sensors using specialised tools and also test the components that may help pinpoint the problem, as well as inspection of the timing chain or timing belt.
• If there is a physical problem with the timing belt this could cause the timing to go off far enough to trigger a code P0342.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing OBD Code P0342

Oftentimes the camshaft sensor is repaired and replaced, without checking the timing chain or belt for damage or stretching. Since there are many reasons for the error code P0342, all the components must be examined properly first to avoid any unnecessary changes and increasing the expenses.