P0349
Fix within a few daysCamshaft Position Sensor "A" Intermittent Signal on Engine Bank 2
Code P0349 means your engine's Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor "A" has an intermittent signal. Common causes: Faulty cam sensor (70%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$150 DIY, $150-$400 professional.
Can I Drive With P0349?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy traffic where stalling would be dangerous.
Stop driving immediately if: Engine stalls repeatedly, significant power loss, or the Check Engine Light is flashing.
Symptoms of P0349
- 1Engine cranks but won't start
- 2Engine stalls unexpectedly
- 3Engine runs rough or idles poorly
- 4Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 5Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0349
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself is failing intermittently, sending an inconsistent signal to the engine computer.
70% of P0349 cases are fixed by replacing this sensor
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors prevent a consistent signal from reaching the engine computer.
20% of P0349 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
An intermittent crankshaft position sensor can cause the engine computer to misinterpret camshaft position due to timing correlation issues.
5% of P0349 cases are fixed by replacing the crankshaft position sensor
A faulty engine computer can incorrectly process the camshaft position sensor signal or fail to provide proper voltage.
5% of P0349 cases are fixed by replacing or reprogramming the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector for the Camshaft Position Sensor "A" on Bank 2 for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- Ensure the connector is fully seated and secure.
How to Diagnose P0349
- 1Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor (Bank 2, Sensor A) and its wiring harness for any obvious damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- 2Check the electrical connector for tightness, bent pins, or corrosion.
- 3Use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance and voltage supply according to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
- 4Use a scan tool with live data to monitor the camshaft position sensor signal while cranking or running the engine. Look for erratic readings or dropouts.
- 5If the sensor signal is inconsistent, replace the camshaft position sensor.
- 6If the sensor tests good, check for continuity and shorts in the wiring harness between the sensor and the ECM/PCM.
P0349 on Popular Vehicles
Honda Accord
2003-2024P0349 on V6 Accord engines often points to the camshaft position sensor on the rear bank (Bank 2). Check for oil leaks around the sensor as well.
75% fixed by replacing the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor
Toyota Camry
2007-2024For V6 Camry models, P0349 is typically related to the camshaft position sensor on the bank closest to the firewall (Bank 2). Wiring integrity is also a common factor.
70% fixed by replacing the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On V8 F-150 engines, P0349 can be tricky to diagnose due to multiple cam sensors. Ensure you identify the correct Bank 2 Sensor A. Wiring chafing is a known issue in some areas.
65% fixed by replacing the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0349 mean?
P0349 indicates that your engine's computer is detecting an intermittent or inconsistent signal from the Camshaft Position Sensor "A" on Engine Bank 2. This sensor tells the computer the exact position of the camshaft, which is critical for engine timing.
Can I drive with P0349?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. While your vehicle might still run, an intermittent camshaft sensor can cause unexpected stalling, hard starting, or reduced power, which creates unsafe driving conditions.
Will P0349 clear itself?
No, P0349 will not clear itself. The intermittent fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is resolved and the code is cleared, either by the vehicle's computer after several drive cycles or with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0349 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the Camshaft Position Sensor "A" on Bank 2 and its wiring for damage. If the wiring looks good, replace the camshaft position sensor. Ensure the new sensor is correctly installed and the connector is secure.
How much does it cost to fix P0349?
A DIY repair for P0349 typically costs $50-$150 for the camshaft position sensor. If you take it to a shop, expect to pay $150-$400, which includes parts and labor.
P0349 keeps coming back - why?
If P0349 keeps returning, the initial repair might not have addressed the root cause. This often points to a deeper wiring issue, a faulty connector, an intermittent crankshaft position sensor, or, in rare cases, a problem with the engine control module itself.
Will P0349 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0349 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically results in a failure in most states, and an intermittent camshaft position sensor directly impacts engine timing and emissions control.
What's the difference between P0349 and P0340?
P0349 specifically indicates an intermittent signal from Camshaft Position Sensor "A" on Engine Bank 2. P0340 is a more general code for a circuit malfunction with Camshaft Position Sensor "A", which could be on Bank 1 or a single-bank engine, and doesn't specify intermittency.
P0349 on Honda Accord?
On many Honda Accord models, P0349 is often caused by a failing camshaft position sensor, sometimes due to oil contamination or age. It's crucial to ensure the correct sensor for Bank 2 is identified and replaced, as some V6 engines have multiple cam sensors.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the wiring harness and connector for corrosion or damage to the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor?
Good answer: Yes, I performed a visual inspection and tested for continuity and shorts in the wiring from the sensor to the ECM. Everything checked out.
What were the live data readings for the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor while the engine was running or cranking?
Good answer: The live data showed intermittent signal dropouts from the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor, confirming the sensor itself is faulty.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$400
Save $100-$250 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires basic mechanical skills and an OBD-II scan tool with live data capability to properly diagnose and confirm the fix.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0349 can lead to your engine stalling unexpectedly, creating dangerous driving situations. Continued intermittent signals can also cause incorrect fuel delivery and ignition timing, potentially damaging other engine components over time, though direct catastrophic damage is less common than with misfire codes.
While You're In There...
While not directly related to the cam sensor's intermittent signal, both sensors work together for engine timing. If you're already diagnosing timing-related issues, checking or replacing the crank sensor can prevent future related codes.
Some camshaft position sensors can be affected by dirty oil or sludge, especially if they rely on oil pressure for variable valve timing. Fresh oil ensures optimal engine health.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- OBD-II scan tool with live data capability
- Wire brush (for cleaning connectors)
P0349 is a common engine code related to engine timing. Most repairs involve replacing a relatively inexpensive sensor, and your engine will run smoothly and reliably afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check the wiring and connector for the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor "A" for any visible damage, corrosion, or looseness. Clean any corrosion you find.
Step 2: If the wiring appears good, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor. Look for erratic readings or signal dropouts while the engine is running or cranking.
Step 3: If the sensor signal is inconsistent, replace the Camshaft Position Sensor "A" on Bank 2.