AutoCodes – RAM – P0345 RAM

P0345 RAM Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1

Quick Answer

The circuits of the Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor include a 5-Volt reference circuit supplied by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), a low reference circuit, and an output signal circuit. Common causes include Low engine oil, Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted. 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: P0345 RAM indicates Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine oil, Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted.
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 684

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 Jun 15, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0345 RAM Description

The circuits of the Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor include a 5-Volt reference circuit supplied by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), a low reference circuit, and an output signal circuit. The CMP Sensor is a digital output integrated circuit sensing device that is internally magnetically biased. It detects changes in magnetic flux between the high and low points of a tone wheel connected to the camshaft. When each tooth on the tone wheel passes by the CMP Sensor, the sensor electronics use the resulting change in the magnetic field to generate a digital output pulse. The sensor produces a digital ON/OFF DC voltage pulse with a frequency that varies depending on the number of output pulses per revolution of the camshaft, corresponding to the pattern on the camshaft tone wheel. The speed of the camshaft determines the frequency of the CMP Sensor output. The PCM interprets the tooth pattern to determine the position of the camshaft. This information is then utilized to synchronize the engine's ignition timing and fuel injection events. Additionally, the PCM uses the CMP Sensor output data to ascertain the relative position of the camshaft to the Crankshaft, enabling control of the CMP Actuator if it is present.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if, during cranking, at least 2.5 seconds have elapsed with a Crankshaft Position Sensor signal present but no Camshaft Position Sensor signal or with the engine running, the Camshaft Position Sensor signal is lost for at least 0.4 seconds with a Crankshaft Position Sensor signal present.

OBDII Code P0345 RAM - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0345 RAM Code - Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0345 RAM?

Low engine oil
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)
Camshaft Tone Wheel loose/damaged or misaligned
Dead (Weak) battery

How to Fix the DTC P0345 RAM?

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

In the event of a failure in either the Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor or Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, the engine can still start. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is capable of determining the engine position and initiating startup based on one of these two inputs. However, there may be a small delay in starting as the PCM needs time to establish synchronization. If either the CKP or CMP Sensor signals are absent during engine cranking, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is recorded, and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) lights up.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0345 RAM 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 P0345 RAM Code

1. What does OBDII code P0345 mean on a RAM vehicle?

P0345 indicates a malfunction in the Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 1, which affects the engine's timing and performance.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0345 in a RAM?

Symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting the engine.

3. What causes the P0345 code on a RAM?

Common causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the timing chain or belt, or a failing PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. How do I know if the camshaft position sensor is faulty in my RAM?

A faulty sensor often causes intermittent stalling, trouble starting, and the P0345 code. It can be confirmed with a multimeter or diagnostic tool.

5. Can I drive my RAM with a P0345 code?

Driving with a P0345 code is not recommended, as it can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage.

6. How do I fix the P0345 code on my RAM?

Inspect and repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors, or the Bank 2 Sensor 1 camshaft position sensor. If needed, check the timing chain or belt and the PCM.

7. Where is Bank 2 Sensor 1 located on a RAM?

Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine opposite Bank 1, and Sensor 1 is typically located near the camshaft on that side.

8. What tools do I need to diagnose and fix a P0345 code?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner, multimeter, and basic hand tools to diagnose and repair wiring, connectors, or the sensor itself.

9. Could a bad crankshaft position sensor cause the P0345 code in a RAM?

Yes, a failing crankshaft position sensor can sometimes trigger the P0345 code, as the ECM relies on both sensors for timing data.

10. How much does it cost to fix a P0345 code on a RAM?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $250, depending on whether the camshaft position sensor, wiring, or other components need replacement.