For 1990-2009 cars

### Circuit Description

The DTC P1346 Intake Camshaft Position (CMP) System Performance monitors the operation of the camshaft position (CMP) actuator system. The CMP actuator system enables the powertrain control module (PCM) to change the intake camshaft timing while the engine is running. The CMP actuator solenoid controls the advance or retard of the camshaft. The CMP actuator solenoid is controlled by a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal from the PCM. The CMP sensor monitors the camshaft position or the camshaft angle, and compares that position or phase to the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor signal. The PCM determines whether the camshaft angle is correct by comparing the actual camshaft position to the target camshaft position. By continuously analyzing the input of the CMP sensor and the CKP sensor the PCM can detect a failure in the CMP actuator system.

### Conditions for Running the DTC

• | The engine is running.

• | The engine coolant temperature (ECT) is more than 70°C (158°F).

• | The vehicle is operating at more than 8 km/h (5 mph).

### Conditions for Setting the DTC

• | The PCM detects an unexpected deviation in the relationship of the input signals of the CMP sensor and the CKP sensor.

• | The fault is present for 20 seconds or more when the CMP actuator solenoid is activated.

### Action Taken When the DTC Sets

• | The PCM illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 2 consecutive ignition cycles in which the diagnostic runs with the fault active.

• | The PCM stores the conditions that were present when the DTC set as Freeze Frame data.

### Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

• | The PCM turns OFF the MIL on the third consecutive trip cycle during which the diagnostic has been run and the fault condition is no longer present.

• | A DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a fault.

• | A DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool Clear DTC Information function.

### Diagnostic Aids

Inspect for any recent engine mechanical repairs. An incorrectly timed or incorrectly installed camshaft can cause a DTC P1346 to set.

If a DTC P1349 and P1346 are both present, inspect for a malfunctioning CMP solenoid valve.

An intermittent malfunction may be caused by a fault in the electrical circuit of the CMP actuator valve. Inspect the wiring harness and components for an intermittent condition. Refer to Intermittent Conditions .

The information included in the Freeze Frame data can be useful in determining the vehicle operating conditions when the DTC first set.

### Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

1. The Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the Freeze Frame data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the fault occurred. The information is then stored in the scan tool for later reference.

2. This step checks the operation of the CMP actuator system. When commanded ON, the CMP actuator solenoid advances the camshaft, usually causing the engine to stall.

3. This step visually inspects the operation of the CMP actuator solenoid valve. The solenoid plunger and spool valve movement should be smooth and rapid from extended to retracted.

Step | Action | Values | Yes | No
--- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls? | -- | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls
2 | Is there a DTC P1656 or P1349 present? | -- | Go to DTC P1656 or DTC P1349 | Go to Step 3
3 |

1. Start the engine.
2. Allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature.
3. Command the CMP actuator solenoid ON with the scan tool.

Does the engine idle very rough or stall when the CMP actuator solenoid is commanded ON with the scan tool?

--

Go to Diagnostic Aids

Go to Step 4

4 |

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Remove the CMP actuator solenoid. Refer to Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Replacement .
3. Connect the CMP actuator solenoid to B+ and to ground with a pair of fused jumper wires.
4. Observe the movement of the solenoid plunger when electrical power is applied and released.

Does the solenoid plunger extend to at least the specified value when voltage is applied and then retract when voltage is removed?

3 mm (0.125 in)

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 6

5 |

1. Inspect the engine for the following engine mechanical concerns:

• | A damaged or misaligned CMP sensor reluctor

• | A worn timing chain and jumped timing

• | An incorrectly installed or incorrectly timed camshaft

2. Repair as necessary. Refer to Timing Chain and Sprocket Replacement in Engine Mechanical.

Was a repair necessary?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

6 | Replace the CMP actuator solenoid valve. Refer to Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Replacement . Is the action complete? | -- | Go to Step 8 | --
7 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement . Is the action complete? | -- | Go to Step 8 | --
8 |

1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
2. Turn OFF the ignition for 30 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
4. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC run and pass?

--

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 2

9 | With a scan tool, observe the stored information, Capture Info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List | System OK