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P0345 is a medium-severity diagnostic code. Reading the freeze-frame data and any paired codes is the fastest way to narrow it down. See top-rated scanners on Amazon ↗
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🎯 Top Causes & Probability
55%
#1 - Most Likely
Failed Camshaft Position Sensor (Bank 2)
The Hall-effect or magnetic pickup inside the sensor has failed. Heat near the valve cover slowly cooks the sensor electronics. Replacement is the most common fix.
🔨 Part
$25-$110
👨🔧 Labor
$60-$180
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
28%
#2 - Check First
Wiring Harness / Connector Damage
The sensor harness on bank 2 runs near hot exhaust and can chafe against the valve cover. Look for melted insulation, broken pins, or oil-saturated connectors.
🔨 Part
$10-$60
👨🔧 Labor
$40-$140
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
12%
#3 - Less Common
Worn Timing Chain or Reluctor Ring
A stretched chain or chipped reluctor on the cam gear gives the sensor an erratic signal. More common on high-mileage Ford and GM V8s.
🔨 Part
$120-$600
👨🔧 Labor
$400-$1400
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Hard
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🚫 Is It Safe to Drive?
Yes - short term. The engine may run rough, hesitate, or have a hard start. Long term, ignition timing is degraded and you risk worse driveability.
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Scan for paired codes - P0340, P0341, P0346 paint a picture. P0345 alone is usually bank 2 sensor or wiring.
- Inspect the bank 2 sensor - Bank 2 is the side opposite cylinder #1. Look for oil leaks soaking the connector and chafed wires near the valve cover.
- Check 5V reference and ground - Back-probe the sensor connector with KOEO. You should see ~5V on reference and continuity to chassis ground.
- Cross-check with bank 1 sensor - Swap with the bank 1 cam sensor (same part on most engines). If the code follows the sensor, replace it.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a P0345?
Yes, short term. Expect a rough idle, hesitation, and possibly hard starts. Avoid long highway trips and get it fixed within a few weeks before driveability gets worse or you trigger limp mode.
Which side is bank 2?
Bank 2 is the side of the V-engine that does NOT contain cylinder #1. On most Ford V8s that is the passenger side. On most GM and Dodge V8s, bank 2 is the driver side.
Will replacing the sensor fix P0345?
About 55% of the time, yes. But 28% of cases trace to wiring or a corroded connector, and 12% involve timing chain stretch. Inspect wiring before throwing a new sensor at it.
Do I need to relearn anything after replacement?
Most vehicles relearn the cam signal automatically after a few key cycles. Some Fords need a PCM relearn with a scan tool.
How much does a P0345 repair cost at a shop?
For just the sensor: $120-$280 total. If it ends up being timing chain related, expect $1200-$2200 in parts and labor.