P0346 Code: Honda Civic (2022-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database

According to the provided NHTSA data for the Honda Civic (2022-2024), there are no owner complaints and no recalls listed for P0346. This guide uses general automotive diagnostic knowledge tailored to the P0346 code and common Honda Civic symptoms, while clearly noting data limitations. If you are facing this code, use the steps below as a structured approach, and consider professional service if the diagnosis becomes complex.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0346 — Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)
• What it means: The engine control module (ECM/ECU) detects that the camshaft position sensor signal from the cam position sensor “A” circuit is not within expected range or the signal is not being produced consistently. This can indicate a sensor fault, wiring/problem in the sensor circuit, or, in rarer cases, a timing issue or ECM fault.
• Severity in practice: Often causes misfires, rough idle, reduced power, hesitation, mis-starts, or no-start conditions. Some vehicles may run in a degraded or limp mode to protect the engine. It may not trigger a failure to start every time, but driveability issues are common. Because the code relates to synchronizing timing signals, unresolved issues can lead to poor performance and potential engine damage if left untreated.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CIVIC (2022-2024)

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (CMP sensor) itself
• Damaged, corroded, or loose CMP sensor electrical connector or wiring harness (insulation wear, open/short, oil contamination)
• Oil, dirt, or moisture intrusion on the sensor or connector
• 5V reference or ground circuit problems to the CMP sensor (voltage drop, poor ground)
• Timing-related issues (rare but possible): timing chain/belt wear or jump causing cam/crank signals to be out of sync
• ECU/PCM fault (rare): electrical fault within the engine control module
• Intermittent issues that only appear at certain RPMs or temperatures

Note: The above are common diagnostic considerations for P0346 on modern Hondas in general. With no NHTSA recalls or complaints in the provided data, there are no model-year-specific recall bullets to cite.

SYMPTOMS YOU MIGHT SEE

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated
• Engine misfires, rough idle, or hesitation on acceleration
• Decreased power or sluggish throttle response
• Difficulty starting or intermittent no-start
• Decreased fuel economy
• Potential stalling or surging under certain conditions
• In some cases, no obvious symptoms if the sensor signal intermittently returns to spec

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS (systematic approach)

Important: Start with the least invasive checks and advance only as needed. Document all readings.

• Step 0: Prepare and verify

  • Use a reliable OBD-II scan tool to confirm P0346 and note any freeze-frame data, fault count, and any accompanying codes (e.g., P0335 crankshaft sensor, P0016/P0017 related to cam/crank timing).
  • Check battery voltage and charging system; poor voltage can cause sensor circuits to behave erratically.

• Step 1: Visual inspection

  • Inspect the CMP sensor and its connector for damage, loose fit, corrosion, oil contamination, or moisture.
  • Inspect the wiring harness near the sensor for cuts, abrasion, pin damage, or melted insulation.
  • Look for oil leaks around the sensor area; oil intrusion can alter sensor readings.

• Step 2: Electrical checks at the CMP connector

  • With ignition off, disconnect the CMP connector and test for continuity of the signal wires between the PCM/ECM and the sensor.
  • Check the 5V reference and ground at the PCM side (and at the sensor side if accessible) using a DVOM. Compare to specs: one pin should be 5V reference, one pin should be a solid ground, and the signal pin should show activity when cranking/running.
  • Inspect for a short to Vcc or ground, or a high-impedance open circuit.

• Step 3: Sensor signal test

  • Reconnect the sensor and, using a Van or oscilloscope (preferred) or a precise multimeter, observe the CMP signal while cranking and running. You should see a clean, regular waveform transitioning between expected voltage levels (the exact voltage range depends on the sensor design, but a consistent, repeatable signal is expected).
  • If access is limited to a basic DVOM, you should still be able to see a stable switching signal or consistent voltage pulses during cranking. An erratic, missing, or non-existent signal indicates sensor or wiring failure.

• Step 4: Check for timing issues (when indicated or if symptoms persist)

  • If symptoms persist after confirming sensor circuit integrity, consider a timing-related check. In many Hondas, a timing chain setup with a cam/crank synchronizing mechanism can cause false positives if the chain has jumped or stretched, or if tensioners or guides are failing. This step is more involved and may require mechanical inspection (service manual guidance, timing marks, chain tensioner condition).
  • Compare crankshaft position sensor (P0335) signals with camshaft position sensor signals to assess phase relationship. Large discrepancies can point to timing issues rather than a simple CMP sensor fault.

• Step 5: Component replacement decisions

  • If CMP sensor signal is consistently out of range or erratic even after wiring checks, replace the CMP sensor.
  • If wiring is damaged beyond repair, perform wiring harness repair or connector replacement as needed.
  • If timing chain/belt or tensioner shows wear, damage, or timing marks indicate mis-timing, address timing components per service manual (this is a more extensive repair).

• Step 6: Post-repair verification

  • Clear codes and perform a road test or controlled test drive to verify the code does not recur.
  • Re-check for any other codes that may reappear.
  • Confirm that driveability returns to normal: smooth idle, no stalling, proper acceleration.

RELATED CODES

• P0340 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit (general, not bank-specific)
• P0341 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1 or general)
• P0342 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input
• P0335 – Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) Circuit
• P0016 – Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor A)
• P0017 – Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
  Note: These related codes indicate sensor faults or timing correlation issues that may accompany P0346. They help guide diagnosis toward electrical issues or timing problems rather than a single-sensor fault.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)

Prices vary by region, shop, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. The ranges below are typical ballpark figures you might expect in 2025.

• Option A: Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) replacement

  • Parts: CMP sensor, OEM or aftermarket: roughly $25–$120
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours (depending on access and vehicle trim): roughly $50–$250
  • Estimated total: $75–$370
  • Notes: In many Civics, the CMP sensor is reasonably accessible; DIY replacement is common if you have basic tools.

• Option B: Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement

  • Parts: Connectors, pigtails, or repair harness sections: roughly $20–$150
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours: roughly $50–$250
  • Estimated total: $70–$400
  • Notes: If the fault is wiring insulation, pin damage, or poor connections, this can be a cost-effective fix.

• Option C: Timing chain/belt components (timing issue suspected)

  • Parts: Timing chain/belt kit, tensioner, guides: roughly $80–$400
  • Labor: 3–6 hours (engine is involved): roughly $300–$1,000
  • Estimated total: $380–$1,400
  • Notes: A genuine timing issue is less common for P0346 but can occur with wear or mis-timing. This is a more extensive repair and typically requires engine timing verification.

• Option D: ECU/PCM replacement (rare)

  • Parts: ECU/PCM: roughly $400–$1,000 (plus programming)
  • Labor: varies based on programming requirements
  • Estimated total: $500–$1,200+
  • Notes: Only consider if a confirmed ECU fault is suspected after thorough testing.

• DIY savings

  • If you do the CMP sensor replacement yourself and use an aftermarket sensor, you may save the majority of the labor cost. Expect material cost only, plus necessary tools.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly parts replacement (often feasible)

  • CMP sensor replacement: typically straightforward; many DIYers can handle it with basic hand tools and care not to damage connectors. Follow service manual torque specs if specified.
  • Wiring repairs: straightforward if you have proper crimping/soldering and wiring repair skills; ensure proper insulation and weather sealing.

• When to seek a professional

  • If you suspect timing chain/belt wear or jump, or if you’re uncomfortable with mechanical timing checks, this is best left to a professional.
  • If multiple codes persist after CMP sensor replacement, or if the PCM/ECU itself is suspected, professional diagnostics with advanced scanning tools are warranted.
  • If the vehicle is under warranty or you lack the necessary tools (e.g., oscilloscopes for signal testing), a professional shop is advisable.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance

  • Follow Honda’s maintenance schedule for oil changes and filter changes; use the manufacturer-recommended oil grade and viscosity.
  • Keep oil leaks away from sensor areas; oil contamination is a common contributor to sensor faults.

• Electrical cleanliness

  • Inspect and clean electrical connectors during routine maintenance; apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion in damp environments.
  • Ensure wiring harnesses remain protected from heat, oil, and road debris.

• Avoid transient voltage

  • Use a healthy charging system; address battery or alternator issues promptly to prevent voltage fluctuations that can affect sensor circuits.

• Proactive diagnostics

  • If you notice intermittent driveability issues (stalling, misfires, rough idle), address them early to prevent secondary damage.

Important data caveats

• The provided dataset states: No owner complaints found for this combination (P0346, Honda Civic 2022-2024) and No recalls found in the NHTSA database. This guide is built from standard diagnostic knowledge and plausible steps for P0346, but it cannot reference model-year-specific recalls or official TSBs since none are present in the data you provided.
• Diagnostic steps and cost estimates are generalized. Actual parts availability, labor rates, and timing considerations vary by region, dealership vs. independent shop, and vehicle trim.
• If you have access to service documentation or recall/TSB data for your exact vehicle, incorporate those specifics. If a recall or TSB exists outside the provided data, it should be considered in the diagnostic process.