P0345 Code: Ford Escape (2020-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Recalls and data note

• No recalls found in NHTSA database for the 2020-2024 Ford Escape based on the provided data.
• The dataset contains complaints for other OBD codes (P0172, P0455, P0420) but not for P0345. This guide uses general Ford Escape knowledge for P0345 and clearly indicates data limitations where relevant.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0345
• Description: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Bank 1
  • This means the PCM (engine computer) detects an abnormal voltage or signal from the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on Bank 1, or a problem with the sensor circuit feeding that sensor (wiring, connector, or PCM input).
  • Bank 1 typically corresponds to the cylinder head that includes cylinder 1; in most Ford engines, CMP A is associated with the primary camshaft sensor used for ignition/fuel timing reference.
• Severity and symptoms:
  • Often lights the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) and can cause drivability issues.
  • Potential symptoms: rough idle, misfire, reduced power or acceleration, stalling or rough engine shutdown, poor fuel economy.
  • In some cases the vehicle may run in a failsafe/limp-home mode to protect the engine, with noticeable drivability loss.
• Data note: P0345 is a sensor/circuit fault. In many Ford Escapes (2020-2024), multiple codes can accompany CMP issues (e.g., P0340, P0344). Since the provided data does not include P0345 complaints, treat the code primarily as a sensor/circuit fault with common failure modes described below.

COMMON CAUSES ON FORD ESCAPE

• Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) A, Bank 1
• Damaged or corroded CMP wiring harness, connectors, or chunky pin terminals
• Poor electrical grounding or a degraded 5V reference (from the PCM) to the CMP
• Faulty or intermittent Camshaft Position Sensor signal causing mis-timing
• Timing chain/bearings/slip or misalignment (less common but possible if timing is out of sync)
• Oil contamination or excessive oil coating the sensor, or sensor mounting issues
• PCM/engine control module software/learning fault (rare, but possible)
• For hybrid variants or different engine options, CMP location and wiring routes may vary, but the fault mode remains similar

SYMPTOMS TO EXPECT (P0345 in a 2020–2024 Ford Escape)

• Check Engine Light (MIL) on
• Rough idle or inconsistent idle feel
• Misfires, especially at low RPM or during idle transition
• Reduced power or hesitation during acceleration
• Stalling or difficulty starting, particularly at cold start
• Erratic engine performance, especially when warm
• Possible diagnostic trouble codes related to CMP or crank-sensor correlation (if monitored)

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS (systematic approach)

Note: Always start with a scan tool to retrieve DTCs, freeze-frame data, and live sensor data. For P0345, you’ll want to check both CMP and CKP (crankshaft position sensor) signals and their timing relationship.

A. Verify the code and gather context

• Confirm P0345 is current and not historical.
• Note any additional related codes (P0340, P0344, P0335, P0336, P0339, etc.).
• Review freeze-frame data (RPM, engine load, temperature) to understand the operating condition when the fault occurred.

B. Visual inspection

• Inspect CMP sensor and its wiring harness for damage, chafing, or exposed conductors.
• Check sensor connector: corrosion, bent pins, improper locking, moisture.
• Inspect the 3-wire harness (reference 5V, ground, signal) for continuity and routing issues, especially near the timing cover or accessory belts.
• Check for oil contamination around the CMP area; ensure any seals or gaskets are intact.

C. Electrical tests (live data and circuit checks)

• With ignition ON but engine OFF, check for 5V reference at the CMP reference/signal wires and ground:
  • Use a multimeter to verify a stable 5V reference at the CMP harness (as specified by Ford service data for the engine family). If the 5V is missing or erratic, the PCM’s reference or wiring is suspect.
  • Check for a solid ground; intermittent ground can cause erratic signals.
• While cranking or running, monitor CMP signal waveform:
  • If accessible via a diagnostic scope, view the CMP signal waveform. A healthy CMP is typically a clean, stable waveform; a noisy, intermittent, or missing signal indicates sensor or wiring problems.
  • Compare CMP and CKP waveforms to ensure proper relative timing. If CKP is present but CMP signal is missing or out of phase, suspect CMP circuit or mechanical timing issue.
• Check continuity and resistance of the CMP circuit:
  • CMP to PCM: check for open or short to ground.
  • 5V reference wire continuity back to PCM: ensure there is no high resistance causing voltage drop.
• Check for PCM software/updates:
  • Ford occasionally releases calibration updates that address sensor interpretation; verify if any applicable updates exist for your VIN/engine.

D. Mechanical and timing considerations

• If CMP and CKP signals appear correct but timing seems off (e.g., diagnostic data suggests misalignment), inspect the timing chain/belt and cam timing marks.
• In engines with variable cam timing (VCT), a stuck solenoid or actuator can cause timing drift; inspect the VCT system if symptoms suggest timing variability.
• If an engine has jumped time due to a severe issue (brozen timing chain, tensioner failure), CMP signal may be erratic; this requires more invasive inspection.

E. Component replacement tests

• CMP sensor replacement (if electrical tests indicate sensor fault or if the sensor is damaged or producing poor signals).
• Wiring harness/connector replacement if harness damage or corrosion is found.
• If timing issues are suspected and not resolved by CMP replacement, perform a proper timing inspection by a qualified tech.

F. When to escalate

• If CMP and wiring test good but code persists, consider PCM fault as a last resort after rechecking all wiring and reprogramming (if applicable).
• In cases of suspected timing chain/belt issue or cam phaser fault, a timing system service may be required and is more involved.

RELATED CODES

• P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction (general CMP circuit fault)
• P0341/P0342: Camshaft Position Sensor Performance issues (sometimes bank-specific)
• P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (timing reference issues that can be related)
• P0330–P0334: Crank/Cam sensor-related codes (narrowed to different sensor locations)
• P0010, P0011, P0012 (if the system uses cam timing control solenoids or variable timing that interacts with the CMP)
  Note: On Ford Escape, related codes may appear in combination with P0345 if there are wiring problems or timing correlation issues. Always review all codes together to identify the root cause.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)

Prices can vary by region, shop, and engine variant. The Ford Escape 2020–2024 uses multiple engine options (1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost, and hybrid variants). Below are typical ranges for common repairs related to P0345, based on industry norms for this era and engine family.

• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) A, Bank 1 replacement
  • Parts: $20–$140 (OEM or aftermarket)
  • Labor: $60–$150
  • Estimated total: $80–$290
• CMP sensor wiring/connector repair
  • Parts: typically minimal (connector or pigtail): $5–$30
  • Labor: $60–$120
  • Estimated total: $65–$150
• CMP sensor replacement plus timing-related issues (rare; if timing chain/belt or cam phaser is implicated)
  • Timing chain/belt components: $100–$600 parts
  • Labor: $400–$1000 depending on engine and accessibility
  • Estimated total: $500–$1600
• PCM (ECU) replacement or flashing (rare)
  • Parts: $400–$1200
  • Labor: $1–$3 hours (depending on vehicle access and programming)
  • Estimated total: $500–$1500
• Diagnostic labor (pre-work inspection)
  • Typical diagnostic fee: $100–$150 (some shops waive with repair)

Notes:

• In most P0345 cases, the fix is CMP sensor replacement or wiring repair; timing-system-related fixes are less common but more costly.
• Hybrid variants may have different service steps but CMP-related repairs generally follow similar patterns.

DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly tasks (if you have basic automotive electrical skills and the proper tools):
  • Visual inspection of CMP wiring and connectors
  • Checking for obvious damage or corrosion in CMP harness
  • Basic resistance checks on the CMP circuit (with wiring diagrams)
  • Replacing CMP sensor if you’re comfortable with component replacement in your engine bay and have the correct torque specs for the sensor
  • Reprogramming or reflashing PCM generally should be left to professionals
• Professional tasks (recommended for most Escapes):
  • Diagnostic work with an oscilloscope to view CMP and CKP waveforms
  • Verifying 5V reference, signal integrity, and ground with proper equipment
  • Timed ignition/fuel system analysis or timing chain/belt inspection
  • Timing chain/belt and phaser inspection or replacement if required
  • PCM-related diagnostics or software updates
• Safety note: If timing components are suspected (timing chain/belt), do not drive aggressively; timing issues can lead to severe engine damage.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance:
  • Keep up with recommended oil changes and use the correct grade of oil; oil quality and cleanliness affect sensor longevity and engine timing stability.
  • Replace air filter and fuel system components as per schedule to minimize engine loading and misfires.
• Electrical maintenance:
  • Inspect wiring harnesses in the engine bay for wear or heat damage; ensure connectors remain clean and dry.
  • Address any corrosion or moisture in electrical connectors promptly.
• Cleaning and environment:
  • Avoid exposure to water, salt, or contaminants that can corrode CMP connectors.
• Software updates:
  • If your dealer or mechanic notes a PCM calibration update for CMP sensing, consider applying it to ensure proper interpretation of sensor data.

Data limitations and interpretation notes

• The provided dataset does not list any P0345 complaints for the 2020–2024 Ford Escape, so statistical frequency guidance specific to this model/year is not available here.
• There are no recalls listed for this model in the provided data.
• The diagnostic steps and repair cost estimates are based on general Ford caution and common industry knowledge for P0345. Real-world costs vary by region, labor rates, engine type, and whether timing-related components are involved.
• When diagnosing, correlate P0345 with any other DTCs (especially P0340/P0344, P0335) to validate a consistent fault path.

If you’d like, I can tailor the guide to a specific Escape engine option (1.5L EcoBoost vs 2.0L EcoBoost vs Hybrid) and provide a more engine-specific wiring diagram approach and step-by-step test plan.