AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P0391 Volkswagen

P0391 Volkswagen Code - Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance 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
P0391 Volkswagen indicates Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance 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.
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Code Popularity 3,758
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0391 Volkswagen Description

The Camshaft Position Sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the camshaft is spinning. This information is used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The camshaft position sensor senses the retraction of camshaft (intake) to identify a particular cylinder. The camshaft position sensor senses the piston position. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disc, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.
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.
OBDII Code P0391 Volkswagen - Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0391 Volkswagen Code - Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0391 Volkswagen?

  • 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 P0391 Volkswagen?

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 P0391 Volkswagen 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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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 P0391 Volkswagen Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0391 in a Volkswagen?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially stalling while driving.

2. What does the OBDII code P0391 indicating a Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2 issue mean?

- This code indicates that the camshaft position sensor 'B' circuit in Bank 2 is not operating within the expected range or performance parameters.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0391 in a Volkswagen?

- Possible causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, wiring issues in the sensor circuit, a damaged sensor connector, or a problem with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0391 in my Volkswagen?

- Diagnosing this code typically involves checking the camshaft position sensor for proper operation, inspecting the sensor circuit for wiring faults, and scanning the ECM for related error codes.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0391 present in a Volkswagen?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code present, as it can lead to potential engine performance issues and further damage if left unresolved.

6. Can I repair OBDII code P0391 in my Volkswagen myself?

- Depending on your mechanical skills, you may be able to replace the camshaft position sensor or address wiring issues yourself. However, seeking professional help is advisable for an accurate diagnosis and proper repair.

7. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0391 in a Volkswagen?

- The cost of fixing this code can vary based on the cause, but it typically involves replacing the camshaft position sensor, which can range from $100 to $300 including parts and labor.

8. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code P0391 in a Volkswagen?

- Regularly inspecting and maintaining the camshaft position sensor, as well as ensuring the sensor circuitry is in good condition, can help prevent issues leading to this error code.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code P0391 in my Volkswagen make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reoccur.

10. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P0391 in a Volkswagen?

- It is advisable to address this code promptly to prevent potential engine performance issues and further damage to the vehicle.

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