P0342

Circuit Description

The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) correlates the crankshaft to camshaft position so that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can determine which cylinder is ready to be fueled by the injector. The CMP sensor also determines which cylinder is misfiring when a misfire is present. If the PCM receives an intermittent signal from the CMP, then the CMP Resync Counter will increment. When the PCM cannot use the information from the CMP sensor, a DTC is set and the PCM will fuel the engine by using the Alternating Synchronous Double Fire (ASDF) method.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The CMP Active Counter is not incrementing.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

^ The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will illuminate after two consecutive ignition cycles in which the diagnostic runs with the fault active.

^ The PCM records the operating conditions at the time when the diagnostic fails. This information stores in the Freeze Frame and Failure Records buffers.

^ A history DTC stores.

^ The coolant fan turns ON.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

^ The MIL will turn OFF after three consecutive ignition cycles in which the diagnostic runs without a fault.

^ A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm up cycles without a fault.

^ The MIL/DTCs can be cleared by using the scan tool.

Diagnostic Aids

^ An Intermittent problem may be caused by the following conditions:

^ Poor electrical connection Rubbed through wire insulation

- Broken wire inside the insulation

^ Thoroughly check any suspected circuitry for the following conditions:

- Backed out terminals

- Improper mating

- Broken locks

- Improperly formed connectors

- Damaged terminals

- Poor terminal to wiring connections

- Physical damage to the wiring harness

Test Description

The number(s) below refer(s) to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.

1. The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts you to complete some of the basic checks and to store the freeze frame and failure records data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data captured when the malfunction occurred. The scan tool stores this data for later reference.

2. This step determines if the DTC P0342 is the result of a hard malfunction or an intermittent condition.

4. This step determines if the voltage is available to the CMP sensor through the PCM.

5. This step determines if the voltage is available to the CMP sensor through the PCM.

7. This step checks for a signal from the CMP sensor. It is necessary to supply B+ to the CMP sensor ignition positive voltage terminal in order for the CMP sensor to have B+ supplied to the CMP sensor. While cranking the engine, the CMP sensor will send a varying voltage signal that can be read by the DMM as a frequency check.

15. Reprogram the replacement PCM and perform the crankshaft position system variation learning procedure. Refer to the latest Techline procedures for PCM reprogramming and the CKP System Variation Learn Procedure for the crankshaft position system variation learn procedure.