Harry Gibson on March 2, 2023 No Comments
Have you gotten the check engine light and you have diagnosed a P1345 code? Well, if this is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be a lot to cover on this topic.
Having a problem like this can be really frustrating to deal with. Especially with this code. This code is a real pain to diagnose on a lot of vehicles since it is not a generic code and is present in a couple of carmakers and in for each carmaker it has a different definition.
So, a ton of people don’t know what to do in this situation and how to approach this problem. But you shouldn’t worry because we are going to help you out when it comes to that by dissecting the problem in tiny bits so you understand the issue and how to overcome it really fast. Only by understanding the causes, you will be able to diagnose the problem as it should.
First, we will explain more about car diagnostics and how this procedure is done the right way. Then we will go into the P1345 Chevy code meaning and learn what this code means for each manufacturer. Once we have this grasp of knowledge, we will dive into the main causes and symptoms of this issue, and later on, in the article, we will learn how to tackle the problem quickly and effectively since this is why you are here. Now let’s get to work.
P1345 Code
Now before we dive into the P1345 GMC code and learn more about the problem. Let’s first cover some of the basics when it comes to car diagnostics and the ways you can tackle a problem like this. This will be extra useful for beginners who are not into cars and want to learn more about this problem and how to tackle it.
When it comes to modern car diagnostics, it is worth noting that this type of diagnostics is nothing like car diagnostics back in the day when problems were diagnosed based on the knowledge of the mechanic and the experience that he accumulated through the years.
Modern cars are packed with tech. There are different systems and sensors that can be only accessed with a tool that is known as an OBD2 scanner. If you don’t have this tool, you will only be left guessing what could be the cause of your problem.
But with this tool, you will get the ability to access the system and get an input on what trouble codes your car has. Like in our case with the P01345 code.
Then based on the meaning, you can move on and diagnose the problem accordingly. And for this, you will need to get another tool. For example, if you have a bad camshaft sensor or crankshaft sensor like in our case.
To deem which of these sensors is broken you will need to have a multimeter and learn more about the readings these sensors produce. You don’t want to replace a perfectly working sensor. But more on that later on in the article. Now, let’s cover more about the meaning of the P01345 code.
Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation
Now let’s discuss more on the P1345 code meaning and learn what this code means in the first place. What is worth noting is that this code is not a generic code. This means that it only appears in certain carmakers.
Thus, causing a ton of confusion. And on top of all, every definition for a specific manufacturer is different. But in the following paragraphs, we are going to list all of these definitions.
It is worth noting that this code appears in GM products such as Chevy, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick. It also appears on VW cars such as VW and Audi. Toyota car brands such as Toyota and Lexus. In addition to these, the P1345 code also appears on Mazda and Isuzu cars. Overall, these are the main makes that can have this code and the definitions.
GM: P1345 Camshaft To Crankshaft Correlation Fault Condition
VW & Audi: P1345 Ignition Amplifier, Primary Circuit 3 – Short To Ground
Toyota & Lexus: P01345 Variable Valve Timing Sensor – LH Circuit Malfunction
Isuzu: P1345 CKP/CMP Signals – Signal Malfunction
Mazda: P1345 Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor – Signal Malfunction
Once we cleared the definitions for all these carmakers. We can say that even though they are different, they indicate the same thing. And that there is a problem with your timing. This means that the crankshaft position camshaft position correlation is out of sync by 1 to 2 degrees. But what is engine timing? Well, that’s what we are going to cover next.
What Is Engine Timing?
So, before we learn the causes for this P1345 trouble code. Let’s cover more on the basics when it comes to the engine timing. Let’s learn what is engine timing and how it works. So, what is engine timing in the first place?
Well, engine timing in general is the position of the camshaft and crankshaft of the car. Modern car engines are overhead camshaft designs. This means that the camshafts are located on top of the cylinder head.
So, the valves and piston work needs to be properly aligned in order so these components do not collide with each other and cause irreversible damage.
If you didn’t know, when a timing belt snaps, the pistons, and valves get out of timing. And here one of the worst types of damage can occur. So, now you realize why timing is so important, and replacing the timing belt or chain should always be one of your top priorities.
A replacement interval of a timing belt is about 60,000 to 80,000 miles. While a timing chain replacement interval is between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. If you don’t replace these components during this time, the timing chain or belt could skip timing and you end up with a P1345 code.
But there are also the timing sensors that could fail. More precisely the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor. Both of these sensors that are monitoring the timing can fail and cause a problem like in our case with the P1345 camshaft position sensor code. But more on the causes, we are going to cover in the following chapters.
P1345 Causes
Now as we cleared all of the basics and learned more about the meaning of the P1345 code. We think that now it is time to discuss the causes of this problem.
Knowing the causes is going to help you out determine what could be causing the issue with your car and you will be able to quickly overcome it. So, let’s cover them briefly.
1. Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
The first and most common reason for this problem with the P1345 code is the bad camshaft position sensor.
The camshaft position sensor is a really important sensor that monitors the timing of the camshaft. This sensor is usually mounted on the side of the cylinder head in order to be able to observe the rotations of the camshaft. If you have a Chevy, you will also get the P0340 code which indicates Camshaft Position Sensor A Malfunction.
So, when you have these two codes, the camshaft sensor is probably broken and you have 5.3 camshaft position sensor problems.
2. Bad Crankshaft Position Sensor
The second most important sensor is the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor could also trigger the P1345 code and cause 5.3 crankshaft sensor position problems.
This sensor similar to the previous one that we covered, is there to monitor the position of the crankshaft of the engine. If this sensor breaks, it will trigger the P1345 code as well as the P0335 code, which indicates Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction.
So, whenever you have these two codes, we can assume that the crankshaft position sensor is the one to blame. But more on this later when we will learn how to diagnose stuff.
3. Bad VVT Solenoid (Toyota & Lexus)
The next cause for the P1345 code only refers to the Toyota and Lexus vehicles. When it comes to a Toyota, this code represents a problem with the solenoid of the variable valve timing also known as VVT.
This solenoid is also known as a VVT actuator or a VVT sensor. It basically engages the variable valve timing and helps alter the position of the camshafts. Whether to advance or retard the timing of these components depends on the conditions. And when it malfunctions on your Toyota or Lexus, it could trigger this P1345 code.
4. Stretched Timing Chain
Bad timing components can also trigger the P1345 code. More precisely a stretched timing chain. If you push your timing chain far beyond the factory recommended spec which is about 120,000 miles, there could be an issue such as this.
The timing chain will stretch and your timing will be off by a few degrees. Something which is not ideal and would easily trigger problems like this to appear. So, check the chain to make sure that it is in good working order and doesn’t have any slack.
5. Bad Timing Belt
The next probable cause for the P1345 code is a bad timing belt or a bad timing belt tensioner. The timing belt as we mentioned has a service life of about 60,000 miles or so.
After this mileage, it becomes risky business to drive this car. Not that the belt will fail immediately. But it will start to degrade. It could lose a few teeth and once this happens the timing could be off by a degree or two. Enough to trigger this code on your vehicle. So, be really aware of this cause since it is one of the most common ones.
6. Bad Distributor Positioning (Chevy 5.7 Vortec)
Now let’s cover one cause that is specific for the 5.7 Vortec and that is the 5.7 Vortec distributor timing.
This P1345 code could be easily triggered if your distributor fails. Or if you install a new distributor on your Vortec and you forget that the timing should not be at zero degrees. But + or -2 degrees.
So, if you are having a 5.7 Vortec and you are dealing with this issue. Be aware of it and check your distributor first before you start diagnosing other stuff and replacing components that shouldn’t be replaced. Now let’s move on to the last cause.
7. Ignition Amplifier (VW & Audi)
And the last cause for the P1345 code that we are going to cover that often happens on Audi or any VW make is the problem with the ignition amplifier.
This is precisely a problem with the harness that delivers power to the coils. This ignition amplifier is probably broken on your Audi and is causing this problem to appear. It is usually mounted on the left side of the engine bay as you open up the hood. This problem has nothing to do with the camshaft or crankshaft sensors like on GM vehicles, so beware of this.
P1345 Symptoms
Now let’s move on to the symptoms since there will also be a ton of symptoms when you are having a problem like this with the check engine light.
Knowing the symptoms will tell you that you have a problem and you will know where to look and solve it pretty quickly.
1. Check Engine Light
The first symptom of the P1345 code is probably the check engine light and you are aware of this since you are already here.
But if you are driving a GM car like a Chevy or a GMC, you might also get the P0355 or the P0340 code. These codes are referring to malfunctions in the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor respectively. So, they are a tell-tell sign that you have a sensor-related issue.
2. Rough Idle
The next symptom associated with the P1345 code is the rough idle. The car will run extremely rough when you are having a problem like this.
Whenever one of the position sensors is not working, this is quite expected. The timing will be off and the engine will vibrate constantly. The RPM will also fluctuate and will not be stable as it should be at 800 RPM but it will move up and down, resulting in a stall in some situations. Not an ideal thing you want.
This is why when this type of situation occurs. You need to be alert and try to sort out the problem as soon as possible before it gets bigger. Now let’s move on to the next symptom.
3. Erratic Misfiring Above 1,500 RPM
The next symptom that we would like to cover that is closely connected to the P1345 code is the situation when the car misfires erratically above 1,500 RPM.
So, the more RPM you give to the car, the stronger this misfire will be and your engine will simply perform really badly.
These misfires will be noted as small bangs and pops coming from the exhaust pipe as well as from the top of the engine you will record some ticking and other strange noises. Not the best situation. A clear instance that something is wrong inside of the engine and this problem needs addressing as soon as possible.
4. Problem Starting
And the last symptom concerning the P1345 code that we would like to cover is the trouble starting the engine of the car.
When you have a bad camshaft or crankshaft position sensor, the car will simply not want to start from the first crank.
It will tend to crank quite a lot before it eventually starts and in some cases, it will not be able to start at all. So, if this is the situation that you are in then you are at the right place because we are about to cover how you can diagnose a P1345 code on your car. So, let’s get into it.
How To Diagnose & Fix A P1345 Code?
Now let’s get to business and start covering how you can diagnose the P1345 code on your car. We will stick to Chevy and other GM makes since this code is most present in these makes and models.
Let’s say you own a Chevy Vortec 5.7. The first thing you want to do in this situation is to check the distributor. The distributor is one of the most notorious causes for this code to appear on this type of engine. If the timing is at zero, you need to move it to -2 degrees to adjust the timing of the engine and this will hopefully solve your problem.
If it doesn’t, then you highly likely are having a problem with the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. In this case, you will need to scan the car for codes. In this case, if you get a trouble code such as P0355 or P0340. It means that you have a problem with one of these sensors.
In order to make sure which of them is causing the problem, you need to browse the code and see what result you will get.
Then the next step will be to remove that specific sensor from the vehicle and bench test it with a multimeter. A multimeter is a tool that will allow you to measure certain electric properties such as voltage, resistance, and continuity.
In the video that we attached above, you can see how this procedure is taken on both camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. After diagnosing your sensor with a multimeter you will be for sure going to be able to tell if this is causing the P1345 code. If it’s faulty, replace it.
Cost To Fix P1345 Code
So, what is the cost to fix this P1345 code on your car or truck? The answer to this question really depends. If the distributor is the component that is bad, then you will have to replace it and this will cost you no more than $60 on Amazon for the 5.7 Vortec. Also, not to forget the timing is -2 degrees so this code does not repeat again.
The camshaft position sensor on the other hand costs between $95 and $100. While the crankshaft position sensor usually costs between $75 and $130. The labor will also cost you about $100.
Facts: P1345 Code and Ignition System Problems
- P1345 is a manufacturer-specific OBD code that relates to ignition problems and is tied to the crankshaft and camshaft position.
- The P1345 code is specific to certain vehicle makes, such as Audi, GM, Lexus, Mazda, Toyota, and Volkswagen.
- Each manufacturer has their own variation of the exact definition of the P1345 code due to differences in types of ignition triggers used.
- The P1345 code sets when the correlation between the crankshaft position sensor (CKS) and the camshaft sensor (CMS) are more than one to two degrees out of sync.
- Symptoms of the P1345 code include an immediate check engine light, a rough idle, engine misfiring at RPMs higher than 1500, difficulties in engine starts, and vehicle stalling while driving.
- Causes of the P1345 code almost depend on the vehicle’s manufacturer, but valve timing problems are usually associated with the issue.
- The P1345 code is a severe issue that can lead to significant physical symptoms in the car and even hazardous driving conditions.
- Diagnosing a P1345 code requires an OBD scanner and a visual inspection of bolts and sensors related to valve timing and crankshaft and camshaft components.
- Inspecting and repairing the P1345 problem can be a meticulous process, and DIYing at home is not recommended.
- Repairing the timing chain tensioner is most often the case in extremely high-mileage vehicles.
Conclusion To P1345
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the problem with the P1345 code. First, we elaborated on the basics of car diagnostics and how you should be prepared to tackle this problem.
Then we learned the meaning of this specific code as well as the causes and symptoms concerning it. After that, we learned how you can diagnose it with no problems and also how much it will cost you to fix the issue with the P1345 code permanently.
F.A.Q
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
What Is Code P1345
This code means different things to different carmakers. On some makes like Toyota or Lexus, it could mean a problem with the VVT solenoid. On Chevy or any GM product, it means that there is a problem with the camshaft or crankshaft position sensors. These sensors need to be checked so the problem is diagnosed the right way. Also, on the 5.7 Vortec, this code refers to a problem with the timing of the distributor.
What Causes A P1234 Code
The most common cause for this code is bad camshaft or crankshaft position sensors. These two sensors are notorious for causing a problem like this. On the 5.7 Chevy, this code is triggered by the bad timing of the distributor. Make sure that the timing is -2 or +, never at zero. This way, you will avoid this code appearing on your car.
How To Fix Code P1345
Fixing this code really depends on the root cause. If the camshaft or crankshaft position sensor is broken, then you will have to replace it. Or if you have a 5.7 Chevy, then you should check your distributor and see if the timing of it is set to zero. If this is the case, tweak the timing back at -2 to sort the issue.
What Can Cause A Camshaft Position Sensor Code
The main thing for this code is probably a bad camshaft position sensor or bad wiring that goes to the sensor. Make sure that the contacts are good and that you get the signal from the PCM. This can be checked with a multimeter. Also, a loose timing belt or chain could trigger a problem like this.
