AutoCodes – Chrysler – P0342 Chrysler

P0342 Chrysler Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor circuits consist of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, a low reference circuit, and an output signal circuit. Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0342 Chrysler indicates Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 940

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 26, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0342 Chrysler Description

The Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor circuits consist of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, a low reference circuit, and an output signal circuit. The CMP Sensor is an internally magnetic biased digital output integrated circuit sensing device. The sensor detects magnetic flux changes between the peaks and valleys of a tone wheel attached to the camshaft. As each tooth rotates past the CMP Sensor, the resulting change in the magnetic field is used by the sensor electronics to produce a digital output pulse. The sensor returns a digital ON/OFF DC voltage pulse of varying frequency output pulses per Camshaft revolution that represents an image of the camshaft tone wheel. The frequency of the CMP Sensor output depends on the velocity of the camshaft. The PCM decodes the tooth pattern to identify the camshaft position. This information is then used to sequence the ignition timing and fuel injection events for the engine. The PCM also uses CMP Sensor output information to determine the camshaft relative position to the Crankshaft, to control the CMP Actuator operation if equipped. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the CMP Sensor signal sent to the PCM is too low.

OBDII Code P0342 Chrysler - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0342 Chrysler Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0342 Chrysler?

Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0342 Chrysler?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0342 Chrysler code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0342 Chrysler Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0342 mean on a Chrysler vehicle?

P0342 indicates that the Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit has a low input signal, which means the sensor is reporting a voltage lower than the expected range to the powertrain control module (PCM).

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0342 code in a Chrysler?

Symptoms may include engine stalling, rough idling, hard starting, poor acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes the P0342 code to be triggered in a Chrysler?

Common causes include a failed camshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the camshaft sensor circuit, a faulty PCM, or a weak battery or charging system issue.

4. Can a weak battery cause the P0342 code in a Chrysler?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause low voltage that affects the camshaft position sensor circuit, leading to the P0342 code.

5. How do I diagnose the P0342 code on my Chrysler?

Start by checking the camshaft position sensor and its wiring for damage, test the battery voltage, inspect the connectors for corrosion, and use a multimeter to measure the sensorâ€™s output voltage.

6. Is it safe to drive with the P0342 code on a Chrysler?

Driving with a P0342 code is not recommended, as it can lead to engine stalling or failure to start, which could create unsafe driving conditions.

7. How do you fix a P0342 code on a Chrysler?

Repairs may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, charging or replacing the battery, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if necessary.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P0342 code on a Chrysler?

The cost can vary, but replacing a camshaft position sensor typically ranges between $100 and $300, depending on parts and labor costs.

9. Can the P0342 code be caused by a timing issue in a Chrysler?

Yes, improper timing, such as a misaligned timing belt or chain, can affect the signal from the camshaft position sensor and trigger the P0342 code.

10. Will clearing the P0342 code fix the issue in a Chrysler?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying problem will not fix the issue, and the code is likely to return until the root cause is resolved.