P0341 Code: Honda CR-V (2017-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Below is a comprehensive diagnostic guide for OBD-II code P0341 on a 2017–2023 Honda CR-V. This guide follows the data limits you provided: there are no NHTSA complaints or recalls listed for this exact make/model/year/issue in the dataset. No recalls found in NHTSA database. The guide combines the P0341 meaning with Honda-specific considerations and general automotive diagnostic practices. Data limitations: there are no complaint counts or recalls to base frequency or failure-rate statistics on from the supplied data; use this as a technical guide and not a frequency-based reference.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code meaning: P0341 is a Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1) fault. In the Honda CR-V, this relates to the camshaft position sensor that helps the engine control unit (ECU) time the fuel injection and ignition based on the camshaft’s position.
• Severity and symptoms: MIL (Check Engine Light) is usually illuminated. Engine performance may be affected, potentially including rough idle, misfires, hesitation, reduced power, or poor fuel economy. In some cases, the engine may run roughly or stall, especially at idle or during acceleration. The severity can range from intermittent performance issues to a more persistent drivability problem.
• Important: P0341 is a sensor/circuit fault. It does not automatically indicate catastrophic engine damage, but ignoring it can lead to poor drivability or risking further issues if the cam timing is affected.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CR-V (2017–2023)

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (sensor itself worn or failed).
• Damaged, corroded, loose, or chafed wiring harness or connector to the camshaft position sensor (poor connection, moisture intrusion, or wiring insulation wear).
• Timing-related issues: timing chain tensioner, guides, or chain wear/slip causing incorrect cam timing or sensor signals not matching actual timing.
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) actuator or related components causing irregular cam timing signals.
• PCM/ECU software or calibration issue (less common, but possible if a software update is available).
• Contaminated or damaged sensor due to oil leaks or excessive engine grime (oil on the sensor can affect readings).
• Related sensor interaction: misinterpretation or absence of the cam signal can be compounded if the crankshaft position sensor (CMP) signal is also off, causing persistent mis-timings in the ECU’s sequence.
• Note: In the CR-V, the camshaft position sensor is part of the engine timing/timing-chain/VVT system; failures can be tied to the chain tensioner or chain wear over time.

SYMPTOMS

• Check Engine Light (MIL) on or flashing.
• Rough idle or engine misfires (especially at idle or light throttle).
• Hesitation, lack of power, or poor acceleration.
• Reduced fuel economy.
• Occasional starting or stalling problems (less common, but possible if timing is affected).
• No obvious external leaks; symptoms may be intermittent if the sensor or wiring connection is intermittent.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: If you’re not experienced with powertrain diagnostics, consider a professional once you reach the more invasive steps (timing-related checks).

Step 1: Confirm and document

• Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm code P0341 is current and not just stored.
• Read freeze-frame data to see engine speed, load, temp, and sensor readings at the time of fault.
• Check for other codes (P0340, P0342, P0335, P0010/P0011, etc.) that could indicate related timing or sensor issues.

Step 2: Visual inspection

• Inspect the camshaft position sensor and its electrical connector for corrosion, dirt, oil contamination, bent pins, or damaged wiring.
• Check the wiring harness to the sensor for abrasion, heat damage, or chafing along the harness route.
• Inspect the sensor mounting to ensure the sensor is properly mounted and not physically damaged.

Step 3: Electrical checks to the camshaft position sensor

• With the key OFF, back-probe or use the service manual pinout to verify:
  • 5-volt reference (supply) voltage to the sensor.
  • Ground continuity from the sensor circuit.
  • Sensor signal wire continuity and integrity.
• If you have a multimeter:
  • Check for a solid 5V reference when the ignition is ON.
  • Check that the ground is solid (low resistance to chassis/ground).
  • If possible, monitor the sensor signal on a data stream or with an oscilloscope; you should see a clean cyclic signal ignition as the engine cranks/runs (the waveform changes with engine speed).
• If there is no 5V reference or no ground, the sensor or ECU wiring is defective.
• If the sensor signal is erratic, weak, or flat (no signal), suspect a faulty camshaft position sensor or a disrupted circuit.

Step 4: Sensor swap test (optional but informative)

• If you have a known-good spare camshaft position sensor or access to a donor, swap it to see if the P0341 clears. If the code clears and tests pass, the sensor is likely at fault.

Step 5: Check for mechanical timing issues

• If electrical tests are inconclusive or if there are signs of chain wear, chain slack, or tensioner problems, perform a mechanical timing check per service manual:
  • Verify timing marks alignment according to the Honda service procedure for the 1.5L turbo engine (timing chain gear and tensioner should be in spec).
  • Look for chain stretch, worn tensioner guides, or signs of slippage.
  • If cam timing is off, timing components may need replacement and re-timing.
• Note: In many cases, a P0341 caused by mechanical timing issues will be accompanied by other symptoms or codes (e.g., P0335 for crank sensor or P0010/P0011 for VVT issues).

Step 6: Check related sensors and systems

• Inspect the crankshaft position sensor (CMP) and its wiring; a faulty CMP can complicate timing-related codes and ECU interpretation.
• If available, view live data to compare CMP and Camshaft signals (should be in reasonable sync; large phase differences can indicate timing issues).

Step 7: ECU/software considerations

• Check whether any available Honda software updates or TSBs exist for the P0341 scenario (note: your data set doesn’t list recalls or TSBs, but the absence of data doesn’t mean updates don’t exist in the real world).
• If a software issue is suspected, a dealer or qualified shop can verify whether any updates apply to your VIN/engine.

Step 8: Post-repair confirmation

• After any sensor replacement or timing repair, clear codes and perform a road test.
• Re-scan to ensure no new codes reappear and that sensor signals are normal.
• Enjoy a short drive to allow ECU adaptation (some vehicles require a short drive cycle to relearn sensor offsets or timing).

RELATED CODES

• P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction (general sensor circuit fault)
• P0342 Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
• P0344 Camshaft Position Sensor Intermittent (less common but possible)
• P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit
• P0010 P0011 (Variable Valve Timing – VVT) related codes; these may appear if the timing system or VVT is not following correctly
• P0341 is the primary code for Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance; related codes can indicate timing or sensor-circuit interactions

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices vary by region, shop, and vehicle condition. The ranges below are approximate and reflect typical CR-V costs in many markets as of 2025.

• Camshaft Position Sensor replacement (easy access sensor on many engines)

  • Parts: roughly $20–$60 (OEM or aftermarket)
  • Labor: roughly $60–$180
  • Typical total: $80–$240
  • Notes: If the sensor is easily accessible, this is a common first repair for P0341.

• Wiring harness or connector repair to sensor

  • Parts: $10–$100 (connector or bulk wiring if needed)
  • Labor: $100–$300
  • Typical total: $110–$400
  • Notes: Includes repairs for damaged harness or connector; sometimes a splice or re-termination is required.

• Timing chain tensioner/chain/VT/VVT-related timing repair

  • Parts: $200–$600 (timing chain kit, tensioner, guides; Honda OEM parts can be at the higher end)
  • Labor: $500–$1500+
  • Typical total: $700–$2100+
  • Notes: This is a major repair. If timing chain wear or tensioner failure is found, expect a substantial repair bill. Engine timing accuracy is critical; improper timing can cause severe engine damage.

• PCM/ECU-related

  • Parts: typically not replaced unless a software fix or replacement is mandated
  • Labor: varies; generally less common
  • Typical total: Varies; often low if software update resolves issue

• Replacement timing components due to damage after mis-timing

  • Parts: variable; can include cam sprockets, tensioners, chain, guides
  • Labor: high due to engine access
  • Typical total: often $1000–$2500+ depending on extent

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY (do-it-yourself) feasibility:
  • Replacing a camshaft position sensor is doable for a mechanically inclined DIYer with basic hand tools and a service manual. Access may require removing engine covers or the intake plenum, but it is generally within reach on many engines.
  • Diagnosing wiring integrity and using an oscilloscope to view sensor signals is more advanced; you’ll need proper tools and knowledge of Honda wiring diagrams.
  • For timing chain/tensioner-related issues, DIY is generally not recommended unless you have substantial experience. Timing work is precision-critical, and mistakes can cause severe engine damage.
• Professional:
  • If you suspect timing chain wear, VVT actuator issues, or if the cam sensor tests are inconclusive, a professional with a factory service manual should perform the checks.
  • A dealership or experienced shop can perform precise timing checks, sensor waveform analysis, and proper re-learn procedures if required.
• Quick decision guidance:
  • If the camshaft sensor test is straightforward and wiring looks good, replacing the sensor is reasonable.
  • If there are signs of timing issues (unusual engine timing indicators, chain/tulip marks, unusual noises), seek professional evaluation before proceeding with timing repairs.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance:
  • Follow Honda’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes and timing system inspections; keep the engine clean and check for oil leaks that could contaminate the cam sensor.
• Protect sensor and wiring:
  • Ensure wiring is routed away from hot exhaust components and moving parts; inspect for wear during service intervals.
  • Use dielectric grease on connectors to resist moisture and corrosion, and snap in connectors fully.
• Quality parts:
  • Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket camshaft position sensors and related wiring/components to minimize premature failure.
• Timely VVT/timing maintenance:
  • If the vehicle has high mileage or signs of VVT/timing issues, consider inspecting/timing chain components per maintenance schedule or service bulletin if applicable.
• Monitor for symptoms:
  • Address rough idle, misfires, or MIL codes promptly rather than driving through uncertainty.

Data caveat and transparency

• Data limitations: The provided data indicates no NHTSA complaints and no recalls for this exact make/model/year/issue in the dataset. This means no frequency or recall-based conclusions can be drawn from the data. The guide uses general mechanical knowledge of P0341 and Honda CR-V 2017–2023 engineering practices to outline diagnostic steps, likely causes, and repair options.
• If you have access to more sources (service bulletins, TSBs, or independent reports), consider including them to refine the diagnosis for your specific vehicle.

If you want, I can tailor a step-by-step service plan for your exact CR-V (trim, engine variant) and help estimate costs for your locality.