"Chrysler PT Cruiser":Check Engine Code "P0340"

Engine codes trouble code P0340

While accelerating accelerate normally "engine sputter", hesitating picking up speed.

"Auto Repair" mechanic scanned the vehicle with OBD ii tool and retrieve Engine error codes P0340



There is simple procedure to retrieve error codes with out Obd ii software.
I will mention that procedure here:

Follow the procedure mentioned below:

With the doors closed cycle the key from off to on three times ending with it on and watch the digital odometer display. Don't crank the starter, just off to on. The codes start with a P and have four numbers, there may be more than one stored. Write down and go through the manual for the error codes.

Here we will discuss about OBD code P0340


P0340  "obd codes" sets when the engine controller doesn't see a signal from the camshaft position sensor.

"Where is the camshaft position sensor"  "What is camshaft position sensor"

The cam sensor is on the left end of the cylinder head and is mounted with two 8mm bolts.
Cam sensor is the sensing device which reads off a magnet on the end of the intake cam and reports the cam's position and speed.

Cam sensor shown as CMP





camshaft position sensor code can be set by improper cam timing, wiring, the magnet in rare cases, or a failure of the sensor itself. At least 99% of the time this is just a failed cam sensor, which is common on these engines.

I  recommend taking a look at the "camshaft position sensor" connection and wiring in the immediate area, if all looks ok then replace the sensor. It's not hard to replace yourself if you normally do some minor repairs. You just have to unplug it and remove the two bolts.

Its suggested only using a Mopar replacement sensor. Aftermarket sensors have shown extremely poor quality and you usually end up with at least the same problem if not more problems with the new sensor. They sometimes cause the same code to immediately reset, new codes to appear, or even a no start condition.

The reason it takes alot of cranking to start it is because the cam signal gets missing. The software in the vehicles NGC engine controller actually allows the engine to start if it sees the cam signal is missing, but it starts with an extended crank time.

The hesitation felt is also because of the missing cam signal. When it sees the signal is missing it will impose a 2,500 RPM rev limiter. When you are accelerating and try to exceed 2,500 RPM it will cut fuel and spark back to limit engine RPM.

camshaft position sensor replacement
The camshaft sensor cost about $61 from a dealer or you can pick one up from an online Mopar parts source such as www.moparonlineparts.com for a bit cheaper. That site sells the same Mopar sensor for $45.

To removal and install new cam sensor:




This will help.
Thanks.

Trans bucks when using passing gear

Trans bucks when using passing gear and Cruise control Stopped working on 2005 Chrysler Pacifica.

IS IT COMMON PROBLEM?

Yes its noticed on many Chrysler and Dodge car models.The vehicle will buck when you try to kick in passing gear and the cruise will only stay on for a few minutes and then quits or the cruise control stopped working and will not start at all.

BUT WHY CRUISE CONTROL STOPS WORKING?
The cruise control in such cases stops operating because the problem of trans bucking in passing gear.Once this issue is solved the cruise control starts working as usual.
You can say Cruise has been disabled because of the driveability problem you are having.

OK,AND WHY CAR BUCKS BADLY IN PASSING GEAR?

On this problem,i will say,first get the vehicles Computer module scanned.The scanning will give you error codes.As per error codes it will point out what part is causing the problem.

As per the issue,it points out towards problem with 

• camshaft sensor or 
• problem with timing alignment or 
• it can  be problem with crankshaft gear and crank shaft gear alignment.

WHAT ARE POSSIBLE ERROR CODES THAT I CAN GET?

There are number of different OBD ERROR CODES. It can be retrieved FREE at local auto Parts Store.OR you can get free ERROR CODE retrieved at near by AUTOZONE STORE.

But in such Cases there are few possible ERROR CODES.

The codes start with a P and have four numbers.

I will mention the codes Below 

It Can be  P0340, P0344,P0016.

WHAT DOES THIS OBD ERROR CODES MEAN?

The Explanation for the OBD error codes is mentioned below.

P0016 is Crankshaft-Camshaft Timing Misalignment Bank 1 Sensor 1.

P0344 and P0340 is the CPS circuit. 

OBD P0340

The OBD error code  P0340 sets when there is a problem with cam sensor. Cam sensor failures aren't uncommon on these engines.
In some cases this error code gets set after replacing water pump or timing belt.Because if this parts are not replaced correctly then due to timing belt off  or not aligned properly.
To confirm try this , check of the 5v reference, 5v pullup and sensor ground at the sensor would be in order, and if ok then replace the sensor with a Mopar part.

OBD P0344
If the code is a P0344 then that could still be the sensor, but it could also be cam timing.

OBD P0016
If the code is a P0016 then inspect the timing belt.Its out of alignment. P0016 sets when the cam and crankshaft sensor signals are misaligned, which can be caused by a cracked flexplate or incorrectly installed timing belt.
If you have replaced the belt or water pump in near by time and this code setting directly after the belt had been off would be caused by incorrectly installing the belt 99% of the time or more. If this is the code you have, or you have a P0344 set and a cam sensor doesn't fix it, then you're going to need to go back in and double check the cam timing.It has to be properly aligned.

OK,BUT HOW TO CHECK CAM TIMING?

For that you have to remove the Timing belt cover.
There isn't a way to physically check cam timing without removing the covers again. One other thing that can be done is using a scan tool to look at the cam/crank difference, which shouldn't exceed more than 2-3 degrees at idle. If it's further than that then you have a cam timing issue.

HOW TO SET THE CAM TIMING?
If you are getting Error code P0016 then its telling that your timing is 180 Degrees out.To set the timing belt marks.Set the number one to Top Dead Center then disconnect the timing belt and align the Valves so both the valves for the number 1 are closed. Most likely this will be when the cam shaft timing mark or guide key is in the 12 o'clock position then re-install the timing belt. If you are not familiar with how to get that engine to TDC on the #1 I highly recommend you get the Haynes or Chilton's repair manual for your vehicle.
The marks on the cam sprockets are lined up to marks on the inner timing covers at just about the 12:00 (straight up) position. If yours are not lined up with the marks on the inner timing covers then there is  a cam timing issue.

IS THIS THE REASON WHY I THE VEHICLE BUCKS?

Yes you are correct.The bucking you are noticing is a rev limiter. When the engine controller sees that cam timing is incorrect or the cam sensor signal is erratic or missing then it will impose a low rev limiter, the code being set is also the reason that cruise control is disabled.

See the diagram shown below:-----
The inner timing cover is the aluminum housing behind the timing belt, sprockets and water pump.




So first get the error codes retrieved.Once you get the error code,then you can further start your troubleshooting in right direction,as explained above,for each error code.

If it's a P0340 then go ahead and replace the cam sensor,buy Mopar sensor or original sensor from dealer.But don't convince yourself for local aftermarket parts.This parts are cheap,but they don't last long and in some cases don't give appropriate results.Aftermarket parts are not bad parts,but there performance is poor.And that is what actually matters.


This details will help.
Thanks.


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Testing Camshaft Position Sensor?

The details are as follows :-----

Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor

TESTING

Perform the following checks before getting into more complicated diagnosis and repair.

Some faults in the CMP circuit can be the result of secondary ignition components leaking high voltage into the ignition module. Check for incorrect harness routing too near secondary ignition components. Examine the ignition coils for signs of coil arcing to the wiring harness or to the ICM. Check the coils for cracks, carbon tracking or other signs of damage. Check the secondary wiring (spark plug wires) for arcing to the wiring harness.

An intermittent may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation or a wire broken inside the insulation.

Inspect for a faulty coil.

Inspect for poor connections. Check the PCM harness and connectors for improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals and poor terminal-to-wire connection.

Look for a damaged harness or damaged wiring going to the CMP sensor, especially if heavy work has recently been done where the connector could have been damaged.

NOTE

The best method to test this sensor is with the use of an oscilloscope.

1. Visually check the connector, making sure it is connected properly and all of the terminals are straight, tight and free of corrosion.
2. With the ignition in the ON position, check the sensor voltage using an oscilloscope. When the starter is briefly operated, a square wave pattern, alternating from 0-12 volts should be seen at terminal A. If the voltage is within specification, the sensor is functional.

This will help.

Thanks.