AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0342 Pontiac

P0342 Pontiac Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor sensor works in conjunction with a 1X reluctor wheel on the camshaft. 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: P0342 Pontiac indicates Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage.
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 5,766

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0342 Pontiac Description

The Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor sensor works in conjunction with a 1X reluctor wheel on the camshaft. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) provides a 12 volt power supply to the CMP sensor as well as a ground and a signal circuit.
The CMP sensor determines whether a cylinder is on a firing stroke or on an exhaust stroke. As the camshaft rotates, the reluctor wheel interrupts a magnetic field produced by a magnet within the sensor. The sensors internal circuitry detects this and produces a signal which the PCM reads. The PCM uses this 1X signal in combination with the Crankshaft Position sensor 24X signal in order to determine crankshaft position and stroke. This diagnostic for the Camshaft Position sensor tests for a loss of Camshaft Position sensor signal.
Observe that as long as the Crankshaft Position sensor 24X signal is available, the engine will start. The PCM can determine top dead center for all cylinders by using the Crankshaft Position sensor 24X signal alone. The Camshaft Position sensor 1X signal is used by the PCM to determine if the cylinder at top dead center is on the firing stroke, or the exhaust stroke. The system attempts synchronization and looks for an increase in engine speed indicating the engine started. If the PCM does not detect an increase in engine speed, the PCM incorrectly synchronized to the exhaust stroke and will re-sync to the opposite cam position. A slightly longer cranking time may be a symptom of this condition.

OBDII Code P0342 Pontiac - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0342 Pontiac Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0342 Pontiac?

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 P0342 Pontiac?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Sometimes and in some models, low battery voltage or a weak starter can trigger a Camshaft Position Sensor code.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0342 Pontiac 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 P0342 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0342 in a Pontiac related to the camshaft position sensor circuit low voltage?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, poor acceleration, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What are the possible causes of the P0342 code in a Pontiac?

- The code P0342 in a Pontiac is often caused by a faulty camshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the camshaft position sensor circuit, or a problem with the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the P0342 code in my Pontiac?

- To diagnose the P0342 code, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code and check the camshaft position sensor for proper operation. Additionally, inspect the wiring and connectors for any damage.

4. Can a bad camshaft position sensor cause the P0342 code in my Pontiac?

- Yes, a faulty camshaft position sensor is a common cause of the P0342 code in Pontiac vehicles as it can lead to low voltage readings in the sensor circuit.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing the P0342 code in a Pontiac?

- Repair tips for addressing the P0342 code may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner after making the necessary repairs.

6. Are there any safety concerns associated with driving with the P0342 code in a Pontiac?

- While driving with the P0342 code may not pose an immediate safety risk, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential engine performance problems or stalling.

7. Can I reset the P0342 code in my Pontiac without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without fixing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the problem will likely resurface if the root cause, such as a faulty camshaft position sensor, is not addressed.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0342 code in a Pontiac?

- The cost of repairing the P0342 code in a Pontiac can vary depending on the cause of the issue and whether you perform the repair yourself or take it to a mechanic. Costs may include parts and labor.

9. Can I prevent the P0342 code from recurring in my Pontiac?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing the camshaft position sensor at recommended intervals, can help prevent the P0342 code from recurring in your Pontiac.

10. Is it necessary to visit a mechanic for the repair of the P0342 code in my Pontiac?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the P0342 code themselves, consulting a mechanic is recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with automotive repairs or diagnostic procedures.