P0341 Fault Code

Long Description

Fault code P0341 is logged when the vehicle’s primary computer, the powertrain control module (PCM), has detected an issue with the camshaft position (CMP) sensor circuit.

This fault code refers to the “A” circuit, which represents the intake camshaft. The same fault for the exhaust camshaft is given as P0391.

The main cause of this fault code being logged is the CMP sensor not sending a signal to the PCM.

The intake camshaft is responsible for allowing air into the cylinders to allow for the desired air-fuel mixture. This needs to be in time with the crankshaft for proper operating conditions of the engine.

The PCM needs to know the position of all of the shafts in the engine at all times. This is to ensure proper performance and allow for optimizations by the computer. If the CMP sensor is not functioning correctly, the PCM cannot know the corresponding position.

Audi, Volkswagen, and Peugeot are among the most commonly searched manufacturers when it comes to this fault code.

Other Signs of This Problem

Because fault code P0341 relates only to the intake CMP sensor, it likely will not have any noticeable signs of a problem.

This means it is important to pay attention to the most obvious sign – the Check Engine light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).

It is possible that the engine will not start or run once this code has been logged.

Additionally, the engine may behave slightly strangely. This can include things like higher or lower idling, slight power losses, and misfires.

Be sure to look out for other codes that could indicate that there is more than just a problem with the CMP sensor. These can be codes for the intake camshaft itself like P0010, P0011, and others.

What Could Be The Problem?

The possible causes for this issue can be either electrical or mechanical in nature.

The most obvious cause for this fault code is a malfunction with the CMP sensor itself or its wiring and circuitry.

Another possible cause is a defective camshaft reluctor wheel. The reluctor wheel, also called the tone ring or timing wheel, is what the CMP sensor reads its position from.

Timing components like the timing chain or timing belt tensioner could be faulty. However, these will likely cause other codes to be logged alongside this P0341.

Fixes

The difficulty of fixing this issue depends on if there are other fault codes present.

If only this code is present, the fix will likely consist of replacing a faulty CMP sensor or fixing damaged wiring or connections. It is important to ensure that the connections are also fixed properly and clean.

A defective or damaged timing wheel should also be fixed or replaced. This is another fix that can be necessary even if the only code is P0341.

A stretched timing belt or chain should be fixed or replaced if there are timing issues. Again, this will likely only be necessary if other codes have been logged.

Seriousness

Fault code P0341 should be considered moderately serious. This can change to severe if there are other camshaft position codes logged.

If it is simply the sensor at fault, driveability will be hampered without much risk to the vehicle or its components.

This problem should be ideally fixed as soon as possible.