P0345 Code: Toyota Camry (2018-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Below is a comprehensive diagnostic guide for P0345 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction) as it applies to Toyota Camry models from 2018 through 2024. Note: the real-world NHTSA data you provided includes one owner complaint about a different code (P0442) and reports no recalls for this model in the database. No P0345-specific recalls are listed in the supplied data. The guide below combines general diagnostic best practices for P0345 with what’s typically observed on Camry engines in this model year range. Data limitations: the provided dataset doesn’t give P0345-specific complaint statistics or TSBs, so this guide relies on standard automotive knowledge and common Camry symptoms for this DTC.

1. CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0345 — Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction (engine timing reference for the camshaft sensor). On Camry 2018–2024, some engines have a single camshaft position sensor; others with VVT or multiple banks may use more than one sensor. P0345 indicates an abnormal or intermittent signal from the camshaft position sensor circuit to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
• What it means for your car: The PCM cannot reliably determine the camshaft position, which is essential for proper ignition timing and fuel injection timing. This can cause poor drivability, misfires, hard starting, stalling, or the engine may run in a limp/limited mode.
• Severity: Considered a powertrain fault that can affect drivability. It often requires immediate attention, especially if the vehicle exhibits starting or stalling issues. If the MIL (Check Engine Light) is on and engine performance is degraded, plan for a repair soon.

2. COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA CAMRY

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (sensor itself can be intermittent or failed)
• Damaged or corroded sensor wiring harness or connector (pin push-in, bent pins, moisture, oil contamination)
• Poor/loose ground or 5V reference supply to the sensor
• Oil leakage or oil contamination around the sensor (oil on the sensor or inside the connector)
• Wiring harness damage due to heat, vibration, or chafing near the cam cover
• Timing-related issues (cam timing chain/slack, tensioner, or guides) causing the sensor signal to be out of sync or erratic
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid issues or related oil passages affecting cam timing feel (may indirectly influence sensor readings)
• In rare cases, a failing PCM or corrupted PCM input signals

3. SYMPTOMS

• MIL illuminated with P0345 stored or pending
• Difficulty starting or extended crank time
• Intermittent starting problems or stalling
• Rough idle or fluctuating idle speed
• Hesitation, misfires, reduced engine power, or poor acceleration
• In some cases, vehicle may run normally until sensor signal becomes erratic

Note: P0345 can appear alone or alongside other cam/crank related codes (e.g., P0340, P0335) or misfire codes (P0300–P0306). Always scan for related codes and review freeze-frame data.

4. DIAGNOSTIC STEPS
   Preparation

• Ensure you have a good scan tool capable of real-time data, freeze-frame data, and, ideally, a waveform or live signal readout for the cam sensor.
• Safety first: vehicle on a flat surface, parking brake set, engine cool or safe to work. For some tests you may need to run the engine, so take care around moving parts.

Step-by-step procedure

Verify the codes and data

• Confirm P0345 is the only active code or if there are related codes (P0340, P0335, P030x, P0171 etc.). Note freeze-frame data (engine RPM, load, oil temperature, etc.) for correlation.

Visual inspection

• Inspect the camshaft position sensor and its wiring harness and connector for signs of damage, corrosion, oil intrusion, or loose connections.
• Look for damaged insulation, exposed wires, or pin corrosion at the PCM side of the harness as well as the sensor side.
• Check for oil leaks around the valve cover area that could contaminate the sensor or connector.

Electrical tests on the sensor circuit (requires a multimeter/scan tool)

• Power and ground: With ignition ON (engine OFF), test the sensor’s reference (usually 5V) and ground circuits at the sensor connector. Compare to known good values or reference to PCM pins. If there is no 5V reference or poor ground, the sensor circuit is faulty upstream (wiring, fuse, or PCM).
• Signal circuit: While cranking or running (engine in working state), monitor the cam sensor signal wire with the scan tool or oscilloscope. You should see a stable, periodic signal (often a square/rectangular waveform) as the engine rotates. If the signal is missing, intermittent, or highly erratic, suspect the sensor or its wiring.
• Resistance checks (where applicable): Some Toyota sensors have specific internal resistance characteristics. If you have the service manual or repair information for your exact engine variant, verify sensor resistance between signal and ground/reference pins when the sensor is removed. Compare to the specification.

Sensor testing and swap considerations

• If the wiring and power/ground test good, the next step is to test or replace the camshaft position sensor.
• Replace with an OEM or high-quality sensor designed for your Camry engine (note: different engines (2.5L, 3.5L, etc.) may use different sensor part numbers).
• After replacement, clear codes and test drive to confirm the issue resolves. Recheck for any new or remaining codes.

Mechanical timing checks (if electrical tests fail to resolve the issue)

• If cam timing is suspected due to chain/tensioner wear or timing marks out of spec, perform a mechanical timing check per the service manual. A mis-timed camshaft can cause sensor readings to be out of synchronization and trigger P0345 (or similar).
• Look for timing chain slack, damaged guides, or excessive wear. If timing components are suspect, replace as needed and re-align timing to specification.
• Note: Camry engines use variable timing phasers and oil-driven control; excessive wear or low oil pressure can affect timing behavior and sensor readings.

Related checks

• Oil quality and level: Ensure oil is clean and at proper level. Sludged oil or poor lubrication can affect sensors and VVT components.
• Vacuum/engine conditions: Unmetered air or vacuum leaks can complicate diagnoses but do not typically cause P0345 alone. Still, fix vacuum leaks as part of comprehensive diagnostics.
• PCM/ECU considerations: Rarely, PCM input circuitry can fail. If all other checks pass, PCM diagnosis may be necessary, but this is uncommon.

5. RELATED CODES

• P0340 — Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
• P0341 — Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
• P0335 — Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
• P0300–P0306 — Random/Misfire or Cylinder-specific Misfire codes (may appear with cam sensor issues)
• P0627 or other powertrain codes could appear if PCM power/ground or sensor references are compromised

6. REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)
   Prices vary by region, dealer vs. independent shop, and exact engine variant. Estimates assume Camry 2018–2024 with typical 4-cylinder or V6 variants.

• Camshaft position sensor replacement (sensor only)

  • Parts: $20–$120 (OEM vs. aftermarket can vary)
  • Labor: 0.5–1.0 hours
  • Typical total: $120–$260

• Wiring harness or connector repair (damaged wiring or corroded connector)

  • Parts: $10–$100 (connector, wires, potentially harness repair kits)
  • Labor: 1.0–2.0 hours
  • Typical total: $150–$450

• Timing chain/tensioner/related VVT issues (if timing is actually off)

  • Parts: $100–$600 (timing chain kit, guides, tensioner)
  • Labor: 4.0–8.0 hours (substantial labor)
  • Typical total: $600–$1500+

• Valve cover gasket or oil leakage repair (to address oil contamination scenario)

  • Parts: $20–$80
  • Labor: 1.0–2.5 hours
  • Typical total: $120–$350

• PCM replacement (rare)

  • Parts: $400–$900
  • Labor: 2.0–4.0 hours
  • Typical total: $800–$2000

Notes on costs

• These are broad estimates. Local labor rates, OEM vs. aftermarket parts, and the exact Camry engine variant will shift numbers.
• If multiple components are affected (sensor + wiring + timing), the total will be higher.
• Always obtain a written diagnostic estimate and a written warranty on parts and labor.

7. DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY suitability: Replacing a camshaft position sensor is typically within the reach of a confident DIYer with basic hand tools, a good digital multimeter, and a diagnostic scan tool. Access to the sensor varies by engine variant (some Camry sensors are accessible from the top or side of the engine, others may require removing the intake or other components). You’ll save on labor but must perform careful wiring checks and reassembly.
• When to call a professional:
  • If you’re not comfortable with electrical testing (voltage references, ground integrity, live data waveform analysis)
  • If timing chain/tensioner issues are suspected (timing work is critical and a wrong timing can cause severe engine damage)
  • If the PCM wiring or connector is damaged or if you’re uncertain about the exact sensor location for your specific Camry engine variant
  • If multiple codes appear or driving safety is affected

8. PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance: Follow Toyota’s recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filters, and inspections of engine wiring harnesses.
• Use the correct oil and maintain proper oil level and quality; poor oil condition can affect cam timing and VVT components.
• Address oil leaks promptly (valve cover gaskets, cam seal, or other seals) to minimize sensor contamination risk.
• Keep electrical connectors clean and dry; inspect for signs of corrosion or moisture in engine bay connectors.
• If you notice rough idle, stalling, or inconsistent starting, address symptoms early to prevent further sensor damage or timing issues.
• Avoid aggressive engine braking or hard driving when starting to notice symptoms prior to repair, to minimize potential damage.

Important data note

• The dataset you supplied indicates no recalls for this Camry model in NHTSA data and provides one complaint for a different code (P0442). There is no P0345-specific recall or complaint data in that set. The guide above reflects standard diagnostic practice for P0345 on 2018–2024 Toyota Camry, but real-world outcomes can vary by engine variant and maintained condition. For model-year-specific details, consult the vehicle’s service manual and the latest Toyota service bulletins if available to your shop or dealership.

If you’d like, I can tailor this guide to a specific Camry engine variant (e.g., 2.5L 4-cylinder vs. 3.5L V6) or help you build a step-by-step diagnostic checklist you can print for your toolbox.