P0390 Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen 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 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 P0390 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 P0390 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P0390 Volkswagen Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0390 mean on a Volkswagen?
P0390 indicates an issue with the Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit on Bank 2, meaning the sensor is not providing the correct signal to the engine control module (ECM).
2. What are the symptoms of a P0390 code on a Volkswagen?
Common symptoms include engine misfires, poor acceleration, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, and the check engine light illuminating.
3. What causes the P0390 code on a Volkswagen?
Possible causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a failed ECM, or a timing issue in the engine.
4. Can I drive my Volkswagen with a P0390 code?
Driving with a P0390 code is not recommended, as it can lead to reduced engine performance and potentially cause further damage to engine components.
5. How do you diagnose the P0390 code on a Volkswagen?
Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the camshaft position sensor and its wiring, checking for timing issues, and testing the ECM if necessary.
6. How do you fix a P0390 code on a Volkswagen?
Repairs may include replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, resolving timing chain/belt issues, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM.
7. Where is the camshaft position sensor located for Bank 2 on a Volkswagen?
The camshaft position sensor for Bank 2 is typically located near the cylinder head on the opposite side of Bank 1. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for the exact location.
8. How much does it cost to fix a P0390 code on a Volkswagen?
Repair costs can range from $100 to $300 for sensor replacement, while more extensive repairs like fixing timing issues or ECM replacement may cost significantly more.
9. Can a dirty or faulty camshaft sensor trigger a P0390 code?
Yes, a dirty, damaged, or failing camshaft position sensor can send incorrect signals to the ECM, triggering the P0390 code.
10. Is it necessary to clear the P0390 code after repairs?
Yes, after completing repairs, use an OBDII scanner to clear the code and confirm that it does not return during a test drive.
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