P0390 Code - Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
Quick Answer
The Camshaft Position Sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the camshaft is spinning. Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position 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
- P0390 indicates Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position 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.
Code P0390 Description
When the engine is running, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The change in the magnetic field cause the voltage from the sensor to change.
When the crankshaft position sensor (POS) system becomes inoperative, the camshaft position sensor provides various controls of engine parts instead, utilizing timing of cylinder identification signals.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0390?
- Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor
- Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty starter motor
- Starting system circuit
- Dead (Weak) battery
How to Fix the DTC P0390?
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.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0390 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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Information for Specific Makes
- P0390 Audi — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
- P0390 Chrysler — Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
- P0390 Dodge — Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
- P0390 Ford — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
- P0390 Jeep — Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
- P0390 KIA — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
- P0390 Lexus — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
- P0390 RAM — Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
- P0390 Subaru — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Signal Fault Bank 2
- P0390 Toyota — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
- P0390 Volkswagen — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Bank 2
Frequently Asked Questions about P0390 Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0390 mean?
P0390 indicates a malfunction in the Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit on Bank 2, meaning the sensor is not sending proper signals to the engine control module (ECM).
2. What are the common symptoms of code P0390?
Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine, poor acceleration, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and the check engine light being illuminated.
3. What causes the P0390 code?
Common causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a failed ECM, or issues with the timing components.
4. Can I drive my car with the P0390 code?
Driving with P0390 is not recommended, as it may cause engine performance issues that could lead to further damage or unsafe driving conditions.
5. How can I diagnose the P0390 code?
Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the camshaft position sensor, and checking the timing system for alignment issues.
6. How do I fix the P0390 code?
Repairs may include replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and checking the timing system for proper alignment.
7. Where is the Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' on Bank 2 located?
Sensor 'B' on Bank 2 is typically located near the exhaust camshaft of the engine on the side of the engine opposite Bank 1.
8. How much does it cost to fix the P0390 code?
Repair costs can vary but typically range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether only the sensor or additional components need replacement.
9. Will clearing the code fix the P0390 issue?
Clearing the code may turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.
10. Can a bad crankshaft position sensor cause the P0390 code?
While unlikely, issues with the crankshaft position sensor can sometimes interfere with camshaft sensor readings. However, the primary focus should be on the camshaft position sensor and its circuit.
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