Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)
The P0349 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $80 - $400 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Intermittent stalling
- Random misfires on bank 2
- Check Engine Light comes on and off
- Occasional extended cranking on startup
- Engine hesitates randomly
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Loose or corroded bank 2 CMP sensor connector Very High
- Intermittent break in CMP sensor wiring High
- CMP sensor failing under heat High
- Oil intermittently contaminating the connector Moderate
- Worn cam reluctor wheel with intermittent signal gap Low
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0349?
You can drive short distances. The intermittent nature means the engine may randomly stall or hesitate. Avoid situations where a stall would be dangerous.
Why does my CMP sensor only fail when the engine is hot?
Heat-related CMP sensor failures are common. The internal electronics of the sensor can break down at high temperatures, causing intermittent signal loss that clears when the sensor cools down.
Should I replace the valve cover gasket with the CMP sensor?
If the valve cover gasket is leaking oil onto the sensor area, replacing it along with the sensor prevents the new sensor from being contaminated and failing prematurely.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Wiggle-test the bank 2 CMP sensor connector while monitoring signal for dropouts
-
Test sensor resistance when cold and again at operating temperature
-
Inspect for valve cover oil leaks that may intermittently reach the sensor connector
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Monitor CMP signal during a road test with an oscilloscope
-
Replace the sensor and repair any damaged wiring or leaking gaskets
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- 2007-2017 Nissan Pathfinder V6
- 2008-2018 Ford Explorer V6
- 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma V6
- 2010-2020 Chevrolet Camaro V8
- 2009-2019 Honda Ridgeline V6
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