What does P0342 mean?
The camshaft position (CMP) sensor tells the computer where the camshaft is, so it can time fuel injection and, on many engines, variable valve timing.
The signal is below the expected range, usually a wiring or sensor fault.
Codes are a starting point. They tell you which test failed, not which part to replace. Check for other stored codes and fix those in a sensible order.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Hard or long cranking
- Stalling
- Rough running
- Reduced power
Common causes
- Signal wire shorted to ground
- Damaged sensor
- Unplugged or corroded connector
How to diagnose P0342
- Inspect the connector and harness.
- Check the signal and its ground with a meter or scope.
- Test or replace the sensor once the wiring checks good.
- Check for P0016-P0019 correlation codes, which point at timing rather than the sensor.
- Inspect the connector for oil and corrosion.
How to fix it
- Replace the camshaft position sensor
- Repair wiring
- Inspect timing components if correlation codes are present
Estimated repair cost
Likely repairs for P0342 run from about $100 to $400, depending on the cause.
| Repair | Typical range (parts + labor) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic fee (scan + testing) | $100 - $200 |
| Camshaft position sensor | $100 - $300 |
| Wiring/connector repair | $100 - $400 |
These are rough US estimates for an independent shop in 2026, based on typical parts prices and standard labor times. Dealers, big trucks, luxury brands and high-cost areas often run higher. They are not quotes. Use the repair cost estimator to adjust for your vehicle.
How serious is P0342?
Moderate severity
Often drivable, but stalling is possible. Fix it soon.
P0342 FAQ
What does P0342 mean?
P0342 stands for "Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Low (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)". The camshaft position (CMP) sensor tells the computer where the camshaft is, so it can time fuel injection and, on many engines, variable valve timing.
Can I drive with a P0342 code?
Often drivable, but stalling is possible. Fix it soon.
How much does it cost to fix P0342?
It depends on the cause. The likely repairs for P0342 range from about $100 to $400 at an independent shop in the US, plus a diagnostic fee of roughly $100-$200. These are rough estimates; dealer prices and some vehicles run higher.
What is the most common cause of P0342?
The most common causes are: signal wire shorted to ground; damaged sensor; unplugged or corroded connector.