Powertrain, generic · Ignition system or misfire

P0344 Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 or Single Sensor

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P0344 means the signal of the intake camshaft sensor of bank 1 (or the only cam sensor) is disturbed for moments: edges are missing or appear at an unexpected angle. Ford checks this on the five-tooth wheel used with variable cam timing; if edges appear where none are expected, Ford sets P0344 and switches cam timing off (loss of power and torque), from 200 rpm, detected within 5 s. In Ford hybrids (C-Max, Fusion, MKZ 2013–2020) moisture in the engine oil from short trips caused P0340 and P0344 – remedy: new sensor and oil change (SSM 48598). FCA asks for the cam/crank synchronisation event data to be saved before replacing a cam sensor. The 2010 Saab 9-5 2.0 diesel uses P0344 differently for too few cam pulses.

Likely causes

Moisture or oil inside the sensor, dropping out when hot
Loose contact or corrosion at the connector
Tone wheel on the phaser damaged or loose
Interference or chafed wiring
Crankshaft signal disturbed (wrong reference)

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Sporadic loss of power (cam timing off)
  • Jerking, rough idle
  • Occasionally longer cranking

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€30–300
Time0.3–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

camshaft position sensorcamshaft tone wheelsensor wiringengine control modulecam phaser intake bank1

Related codes

P0340P0341P0349P0369P0016

References: newtonnet.co.uk, fordservicecontent.com, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov.