P0345 Code: Honda CR-V (2017-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0345 Diagnostic Guide for 2017-2023 Honda CR-V

Data note about NHTSA information:

• REAL NHTSA DATA FOR Honda CR-V (2017-2023): No recalls found in NHTSA database. No owner complaints listed for this exact make/model/year/issue combination in the provided data.
• Data limitations: The absence of recalls or complaints in this dataset does not guarantee the issue cannot occur in the wild. P0345 is a common OBD-II code across many vehicles and can have multiple root causes. Use this guide as a diagnostic framework and consider vehicle-specific service information if available.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code definition: P0345 = Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 1) — signal from the camshaft position sensor is not reading correctly or the ECU is not seeing a valid signal.
• What it means on a 2017-2023 Honda CR-V: The engine control module (ECM/PCM) is not receiving a stable camshaft position signal for Bank 1 Sensor A. Bank 1 generally corresponds to the cylinder bank containing cylinder 1 (for a typical 4-cylinder engine). The camshaft position sensor calibrates timing and is used for ignition and fuel injection timing.
• Severity and drivability:
  • MIL/CHECK ENGINE light typically ON.
  • Possible symptoms: rough idle, misfires, reduced power, stalling, extended crank time or no-start condition.
  • In some cases the vehicle will run with limited functionality or may fail to start, depending on the exact failure mode (sensor, wiring, or timing-related issue) and how the ECM interprets the signal.
• Important note: Other issues (e.g., intermittent sensor signal, wiring fault, or timing-related problems) can trigger P0345. A thorough diagnosis is needed to identify the true cause.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CR-V

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (Sensor A) itself.
• Damaged or corroded sensor wiring or connector (pins loose, broken insulation, bent pins, or exposure to oil/heat).
• Poor or damaged 5V reference or ground to the camshaft sensor circuit (ECM/PCM power/ground wiring issue).
• Oil intrusion or contamination around the sensor or its connector (leaking valve cover gasket, PCV issues, splash from oil leaks).
• Timing-related issue (timing chain/slack or tensioner problems causing camshaft timing to move out of spec; this is more likely if there are other timing-related DTCs or mechanical symptoms).
• Damaged reluctor ring or sensor mounting misalignment (sensor sees a degraded/incorrect signal).
• ECM/PCM fault or software calibration issue (less common but possible).
• Wiring harness routing issues (chafing against nearby components, heat, or moving parts).

SYMPTOMS (common with P0345)

• Check Engine Light (MIL) on.
• Engine runs rough, misses, or misfires (may be intermittent).
• Hard starting or extended crank before start.
• Reduced engine power or drivability issues (especially under load).
• Stalling or intermittent stalling risk at idle or low RPM.
• In some cases, no immediate driveability impact if the PCM interprets the signal as valid enough for operation, but diagnostic trouble codes will be stored.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Begin with non-destructive, low-cost checks before moving to more invasive or expensive repairs.

Step 0: Prepare and verify

• Use a modern OBD-II scanner to read DTCs and freeze frame data. Note engine temperature, RPM, load, and any other related codes (e.g., P0335 crank sensor, P0300-series misfires, P0010/P0011 related to timing).
• Confirm the code is still present after clearing, and observe any cycling of the MIL.

Step 1: Visual inspection

• Inspect the camshaft position sensor and its connector for damage, corrosion, oil contamination, or loose pins.
• Inspect the wiring harness for abrasion, pinch points, or heat damage along the run to the sensor.
• Look for oil leaks around the valve cover gasket or other seals that could contaminate the sensor area.
• Check nearby components (PCV system, hoses) for issues that could cause oil or moisture exposure.

Step 2: Inspect sensor and circuit integrity

• With the engine off, disconnect the camshaft sensor connector. Look for bent pins or corrosion; reseat firmly if clean and undamaged.
• Check the 5V reference, signal, and ground circuits using a multimeter (reference values vary by manufacturer; consult Honda service information for exact pinout and expected voltages). Typical checks:
  • 5V reference: exist and stable when connected.
  • Ground circuit: low resistance to ground.
  • Sensor signal circuit: verify signal waveform when the engine is cranking or running with the sensor connected (best done with an oscilloscope or a specialized scanner that can graph the sensor output).
• Look for a clean, steady signal when the engine is cranking; a flat line or erratic signal indicates a faulty sensor or wiring issue.
• If available, monitor live data for Bank 1 Sensor A during cranking and at idle to see if the signal is present and switching as expected.

Step 3: Check for mechanical timing influence

• If the sensor and wiring test good, consider whether timing is within spec:
  • For chain-driven engines, a significant timing chain wear or tensioner issue can cause loss of cam signal. This is more involved and may require timing marks alignment checks per Honda service specs.
  • If there are multiple related codes (e.g., P0340, P0341, P0342, P0343, P0344, or P0010/P0011), a timing issue may be more likely.
• Perform a compression test if engine performance is severely degraded; this helps assess overall mechanical condition.

Step 4: Rule out related sensors and ECM

• Check crankshaft position sensor (P0335 family) if present; misalignment or failure of the crank signal can interact with cam signal interpretation.
• If all wiring and sensor functionality checks out but the code persists, consider ECU/software issues or the need for a dealer-level diagnostic procedure (rare but possible).

Step 5: Repair or replace based on findings

• If the sensor itself is faulty, replace the camshaft position sensor (A, Bank 1). After replacement, clear codes and test drive to confirm the fix.
• If wiring/harness is damaged, repair or replace the affected section and re-test.
• If timing components are found to be out of spec, perform the timing chain/tensioner adjustment or replacement per Honda service procedures.
• Recheck for additional codes that could guide further diagnosis (e.g., misfire codes P0301-P0306, or timing-related codes).

RELATED CODES (camshaft/ timing related)

• P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 1 (Sensor A) - Generic reference code for cam signal issues.
• P0341, P0342, P0343, P0344: Variants related to camshaft sensor circuit performance and range/signal integrity.
• P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit (often checked because crank/cam timing correlation issues can trigger cam fault codes).
• Note: The presence of these codes alongside P0345 can help indicate whether the root cause is purely sensor wiring, or a timing chain/synchronization issue.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)

Prices are rough ranges and vary by region, shop, and vehicle specifics.

A) Camshaft position sensor replacement (Sensor A)

• Part: typically $20–$120 (Honda OEM or aftermarket).
• Labor: ~0.5–1.0 hour.
• Estimated total: $120–$250 (parts plus labor; plus tax).
• Notes: In many CR-V installations the sensor is accessible and a straightforward replacement.

B) Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement

• Parts: $10–$150 (depends on whether you replace just the connector or a longer harness segment).
• Labor: ~1.0–2.5 hours (depending on routing and access).
• Estimated total: $150–$500.
• Notes: If wiring is chafed or connectors are corroded, this can resolve intermittent signal issues without replacing the sensor.

C) Timing chain/tensioner service (if timing is suspected)

• Parts: $200–$500 for chain kit components; tensioners may be included in a kit.
• Labor: ~6–12 hours (depends on engine layout and whether timing cover removal is required).
• Estimated total: $1,000–$2,500 (or more in some shops).
• Notes: This is a significant repair and is typically considered if there is mechanical timing deviation or if other DTCs point to timing issues.

D) A dealership diagnostic and software update

• Diagnostic fee: commonly $100–$200 (some shops waive with repair).
• Software update if applicable: may be included in service if a TSB is involved (though no TSBs are cited in the provided data).
• Total will vary; expect $100–$250 if no major repair is performed.

E) Diagnostics and labor for a complete replacement after confirming root cause

• If multiple components are replaced (sensor, wiring, potentially timing components) the final cost will reflect the combination of parts and labor.

F) Do-it-yourself cost consideration

• If you DIY, you can save on labor but still pay for parts. Expect only the part cost (sensor $20–$120) plus basic shop tools if you already own them.

DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly scenarios:
  • Replacing the camshaft position sensor itself is often straightforward on many CR-V engines and can be a solid DIY project if you’re comfortable with basic hand tools, disconnecting electrical connectors, and following proper safety procedures.
  • Cleaning or reseating the sensor connector and repairing a damaged adjacent harness can be DIY feasible if you have wiring skills.
• When to go professional:
  • If you suspect timing chain/tensioner issues or if there are multiple related DTCs suggesting a mechanical problem.
  • If you lack proper diagnostic tools (e.g., oscilloscope, advanced scan tool) to verify sensor signal and reference circuits.
  • If you experience alignment or timing concerns that require special timing tooling or expertise.
• Practical tips for DIY:
  • Disconnect the battery before disconnecting/connecting sensors.
  • Use dielectric grease on electrical connectors to resist moisture.
  • After repair, clear codes and perform a thorough test drive to confirm fix.
  • Keep a log of fault codes, freeze frame data, and any observed symptoms to help a professional if you seek later diagnosis.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance:
  • Use the manufacturer-recommended oil type and change intervals to reduce oil contamination risk around sensors (oil on sensor leads can cause intermittent faults).
  • Address oil leaks (valve cover gasket, PCV system) promptly to minimize sensor exposure to oil.
• Electrical system care:
  • Inspect and clean connectors during routine service; ensure tight, corrosion-free connections.
  • Protect wiring from heat exposure and abrasion; reroute if needed to avoid contact with hot components and moving parts.
• Sensor health:
  • Consider replacing camshaft position sensor if resistance or signal integrity tests show borderline performance, especially in vehicles with high mileage.
  • Use OEM or high-quality sensors with proper fitment and wiring harness compatibility.
• Driving habits:
  • Avoid frequent short trips if the engine never reaches operating temperature, as poor condition under temp cycling can affect sensor performance and related circuitry.
• Vehicle software:
  • Keep the vehicle’s engine control module software up to date per Honda recommendations (dealer can determine if a software update is applicable; the provided data does not cite a specific TSB for this issue).

Final notes and reminders

• The provided data indicates no recalls or owner complaints for this exact issue on the 2017-2023 Honda CR-V in the dataset. This does not rule out real-world occurrences; it simply reflects the dataset snapshot you supplied. Use this guide as a diagnostic framework alongside vehicle-specific service information.
• P0345 can originate from sensor faults, wiring issues, or timing problems. Start with the least invasive checks (sensor, connector, wiring) and move toward timing and ECU-related considerations if the fault remains after initial diagnostics.
• If you’re unsure about timing-related procedures or engine mechanical checks, consult a qualified Honda technician. Timing work is critical and mistakes can cause severe engine damage.

If you’d like, I can tailor the diagnostic steps to a specific CR-V engine variant (1.5L turbo vs. any other).