Fault codeP0342

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input

What this code means

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input.

P0342 is a generic code: it means the same thing on every make. P0342 belongs to family P03xx — Ignition and misfire. Its page explains how to read a code and groups all its codes by part.

Type of fault

The control unit reads a voltage on this circuit below its expected range. Usual causes: a wire shorted to ground or broken, a corroded or loose connector, or the component itself. Check the wiring and connector before replacing the part — that is where many of these faults turn out to be.

Camshaft position sensor

This sensor reads a target on the camshaft and tells the control unit where each cylinder is in its cycle. Combined with the crankshaft sensor, it lets the control unit fire each injector and spark at the right moment and, on engines with variable valve timing, measure the actual cam position.

What you notice

Starting may take longer, or the engine may not start at all on some models. Hesitation, jerking or a sudden stall can occur, and the control unit may switch to a degraded mode with reduced power.

How to check it

The sensor is usually held by a single screw on the cylinder head or timing cover. Check its connector, look for oil inside it (a leaking seal can wick oil into the wiring) and inspect the tip for metal debris. If the timing belt or chain has recently been replaced, a wrongly aligned timing can also trigger these codes.

Watch it live in Klaro

With an OBD2 adapter plugged in, these live readings show the part at work, when your car reports them:

• Engine RPM
• Timing advance

What to do

Have it checked promptly. A misfire sends unburnt fuel into the exhaust and destroys the catalytic converter within a few dozen kilometres. If the light is flashing, stop driving.

How to read this code

• PPowertrain
• 0standardised code
• 3Ignition and misfire
• 42P0342

Other codes for the same part

• P0340Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
• P0341Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
• P0343Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Input
• P0344Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent