Powertrain, shared range

P34C1 B Camshaft Position Actuator Position Sensor A Range/Performance Bank 2

Check engine lightOn

EmissionsRelevant

Drive cycleRequired

Limp modePossible

Mercedes-Benz names P34C109 for the exhaust side of bank 2 on its CAMTRONIC V8s: the signal from the sensor at solenoid 1 is wrong although the circuit is intact, entered as a component fault. CARB explains why such a check exists, since even a single cylinder pin on a lift mechanism not moving into place is a failure mode that VVT monitoring has to cover. The same bulletin, LI05.20-P-080192, also carries P005C (solenoid 1, exhaust, bank 2: faulty or jammed off) and P164B (CAMTRONIC limp-home). The Mercedes remedy: engine software, current actuator part numbers, and a look at the harness for heat damage. Because the solenoid sensor is integrated, a confirmed fault calls for replacing the actuator. Bank 1 counterpart: P34BD.

Likely causes

CAMTRONIC actuator of an older part number (Mercedes: replace)

Engine control software needs an update

Actuator pin sticking or moving too slowly

Symptoms

Check engine light on
CAMTRONIC limp-home, often together with P005C

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job

Parts and labour€150–1,500

Time1–5 h

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

Parts involved

cam actuator b pos sensor b2

Related codes

P34BD P34C0 P34C2 P34C3 P005C P2B4C

References: static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu, ntn-snr.com.