P0340 — Camshaft position sensor circuit malfunction

The camshaft position sensor signal is missing or implausible — can cause hard starts, stalling, or no-start.

Last updated: Oct 26, 2026 (America/Los_Angeles)

What it means in plain English

P0340 is a camshaft position sensor circuit fault. The computer needs cam (and crank) signals for injection and ignition timing. Failures range from the sensor itself to wiring, tone rings, or related timing problems. Compare with P0335 (crank sensor).

Common causes

What you can safely check

Pull the code yourself (disclosed)

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A reusable Bluetooth OBD-II scanner lets you read the code and freeze-frame data before authorizing “mystery” diagnostics. One option: BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD-II scan tool (BlueDriver/Levanta affiliate). Any capable OBD-II reader is fine — this is not required to use Fair Auto Shops.

When to go to a shop

Diagnosis should compare cam vs crank signals. Replacing sensors blindly when the timing chain has jumped wastes money.

Typical related repair costs (U.S. national averages)

These are related repairs shops may find after diagnosis — not a guaranteed bill for every P0340. Ranges exclude taxes, fees, diagnostics, and your location.

Related cost guides: Camshaft Position Sensor

Questions to ask before you authorize work

Use questions before you authorize a repair and how to read a repair estimate. Watch for patterns in spotting upselling.

Find an honest independent shop

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FAQ

What should I do first with a P0340 code?

Photograph all codes, note symptoms and whether the light is flashing, avoid clearing data until a shop sees it, then use an independent shop with a clear diagnostic plan.

More check-engine codes

P0420 · P0430 · P0300 · P0301 · P0171 · P0174 · P0455 · P0456 · P0442 · P0446 · P0128 · P0401 · P0133 · P0113 · P0506 · P0507 · P0700 · P0741 · P0011 · P0325 · P0335 · P0101 · P0299 · P0135 · P0440 · P0441 · P0010 · P0500 · P0121

Hub: How to read a check-engine code · Repair cost guides · Affiliate disclosure