P0369
Fix within a few daysYour engine's exhaust camshaft position sensor (Bank 1) is sending an intermittent signal to the computer.
Code P0369 means your engine's exhaust camshaft position sensor (Bank 1) has an intermittent signal. Common causes: Bad camshaft sensor (70%), wiring issues (25%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $80-$250 DIY, $180-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0369?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Fix within a few days.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, significant power loss, loud engine noises, or engine stalling frequently.
Symptoms of P0369
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine is hard to start or cranks longer than usual
- 3Engine runs rough or idles poorly
- 4Engine stalls unexpectedly
- 5Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 6Poor fuel economy
Common Causes of P0369
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 P0369 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or a faulty connector can cause an intermittent signal from the sensor.
25% of P0369 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A rare but possible cause is a fault within the engine computer that incorrectly interprets or processes the sensor signal.
5% of P0369 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor 'B' and its electrical connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Check the wiring harness leading to the sensor for any signs of chafing, cuts, or heat damage.
- Clear the code with an OBD-II scan tool and see if it immediately returns.
How to Diagnose P0369
- 1Connect an OBD-II scan tool to confirm the P0369 code and check for any other related codes.
- 2Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor 'B' (exhaust, Bank 1) and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 3Check the wiring harness leading to the sensor for any signs of chafing, cuts, or heat damage.
- 4Using a multimeter, test the camshaft position sensor's resistance and voltage output according to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
- 5If the sensor tests good, use a multimeter to check for proper voltage supply and ground at the sensor connector.
- 6If all sensor and wiring checks pass, consider testing the ECM, though this is less common.
P0369 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024P0369 on Camry models often points to the exhaust camshaft position sensor itself or a corroded connector. Check for oil leaks around the sensor that could contaminate the electrical connection.
85% fixed by replacing the sensor or repairing wiring
Honda Accord
2003-2024For Accord, P0369 is frequently traced to a faulty camshaft position sensor or a damaged section of the wiring harness near the sensor. Pay close attention to the harness routing.
80% fixed by replacing the sensor or repairing wiring
Ford F-150
2004-2024F-150s with P0369 commonly have issues with the camshaft position sensor on Bank 1 exhaust, sometimes due to oil contamination or wiring chafing from engine vibration.
85% fixed by replacing the sensor or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0369 mean?
P0369 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer is receiving an intermittent signal from the exhaust camshaft position sensor on Bank 1. This sensor tells the computer the exact position of the camshaft, which is critical for engine timing.
Can I drive with P0369?
Yes, for short trips only. You can drive with P0369 for essential, short trips, but you should fix it within a few days. Ignoring this code can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and potential damage to other components like the catalytic converter.
Will P0369 clear itself?
No, P0369 will not clear itself. The intermittent fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired. Once the underlying issue is fixed, you will need to clear the code with an OBD-II scan tool, or it will clear automatically after several drive cycles if the fault does not return.
How do I fix P0369 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the camshaft position sensor 'B' and its wiring for damage or corrosion. If nothing is obvious, test the sensor and its circuit with a multimeter. Most often, replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor 'B' will resolve the issue.
How much does it cost to fix P0369?
DIY repair costs for P0369 typically range from $80 to $250, primarily for a new camshaft position sensor. Professional repair at a shop will cost between $180 and $600, including parts and labor.
P0369 keeps coming back - why?
If P0369 keeps returning, it often means the initial repair didn't address the root cause. Common reasons for recurrence include a faulty wiring harness that wasn't fully repaired, a poor connection at the sensor, or, less commonly, an issue with the Engine Control Module (ECM).
Will P0369 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0369 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A Check Engine Light indicates an active fault in the emissions system, and most states require the light to be off and all monitors to be 'ready' to pass inspection.
What's the difference between P0369 and P0340?
P0369 specifically refers to an intermittent circuit issue with the Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' (typically the exhaust camshaft) on Bank 1. P0340 refers to a general circuit malfunction for Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' (typically the intake camshaft) on Bank 1. They point to different sensors or different types of circuit faults.
P0369 on Honda Accord?
On Honda Accord models, P0369 is frequently caused by a failing exhaust camshaft position sensor or a damaged section of the wiring harness leading to it. Start by inspecting the sensor and its connector for any visible damage or corrosion, especially where the harness might rub against other engine components.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the camshaft position sensor 'B' with a multimeter for intermittent signals?
Good answer: Yes, I monitored the sensor's live data and tested its resistance and voltage output. It showed intermittent drops or spikes, indicating an internal fault.
What did you find when inspecting the wiring harness and connector for the sensor?
Good answer: I thoroughly checked the wiring from the sensor back to the ECM for chafing, corrosion, or breaks. The connector pins were also inspected for tightness and cleanliness.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$80-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$180-$600
Save $100-$350 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires basic hand tools, an OBD-II scan tool, and a multimeter for proper diagnosis and replacement.
Cost of Waiting
Continued driving with an intermittent camshaft signal can lead to incorrect engine timing, causing misfires. Misfires send unburned fuel into the exhaust, which can overheat and destroy your catalytic converter ($800-$2,500 replacement). It can also cause internal engine damage over time due to incorrect valve timing and poor engine performance.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Wiring diagram (helpful)
P0369 is a common sensor-related code. Most repairs involve replacing the camshaft position sensor, which is a straightforward job for an intermediate DIYer, and your engine will run smoothly afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor 'B' (exhaust, Bank 1) and its wiring for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Ensure the connector is fully seated.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal the problem, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor live data from the camshaft position sensor. Look for erratic readings or dropouts. Then, use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance and voltage output, comparing to factory specifications.
Step 3: If the sensor tests faulty, replace it. If the sensor tests good, carefully inspect and test the wiring harness for continuity and shorts. If wiring is good, consider an ECM issue as a last resort.