Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The circuit for the Camshaft Position Sensor “B” is experiencing a high input in Bank 1.
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for the powertrain, which applies to all makes and models from around 2003 onwards. While this code is more commonly found in VW, Kia, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford vehicles, it can affect any make of vehicle. The specific troubleshooting steps will vary depending on the vehicle.
These vehicles may have a single camshaft in the engine block, or a single (SOHC) or dual (DOHC) overhead camshafts. However, this code specifically relates to the absence of the incoming signal from the camshaft position sensor(s) “B” in Bank 1, typically during engine start-up. This indicates an electrical circuit fault. Bank #1 refers to the bank of the engine that contains cylinder #1.
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) uses the “B” Camshaft Position Sensor to determine the accuracy of the Crankshaft Sensor signal, the timing of a given Crankshaft Position Sensor signal in relation to Cylinder #1, and for fuel injector synchronization and start of injection.
Codes P0365 or P0366 may also be present alongside P0368. The only difference between these three codes is the duration of the problem and the type of electrical issue affecting the sensor/circuit/engine controller. Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, type of camshaft position sensor, and wire colors.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an engine code P0368 may include:
Potential Causes
The typical causes for this code are:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is to search for any technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to your specific vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogram available to address this issue, so it’s worth checking before pursuing other troubleshooting steps.
Next, locate both the Camshaft and Crankshaft Position Sensors “B” on your particular vehicle. Since they share common power and ground circuits, and this code focuses on the power and ground circuits of the Camshaft Position Sensor, it makes sense to check them for any damage.
Refer to the provided photo for an example of a camshaft position sensor (CMP):
Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for any signs of chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully examine the terminals inside. Check for corrosion, burning, or any unusual green discoloration. If necessary, use Electrical Contact cleaner or rubbing alcohol and a plastic bristle brush to clean the terminals. After cleaning, allow them to air dry and apply dielectric silicone compound to the contact points.
If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory and monitor if this code returns. If it does not, then the issue was likely related to the connections.
If the code does return, further testing of the sensor and its associated circuits is necessary. There are typically two types of Camshaft Position Sensors: Hall Effect or Magnetic Pick up. You can determine which type you have based on the number of wires coming from the sensor. Three wires indicate a Hall Effect sensor, while two wires indicate a Magnetic Pick up style sensor.
This code will only be triggered if the sensor is a Hall Effect sensor. Disconnect the harness connected to the Camshaft Position Sensor and use a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM) to test the 5V power supply circuit going to the sensor. Verify whether the sensor should be powered with 5 volts or 12 volts using a wiring diagram or diagnostic chart. If there is 12 volts instead of 5 volts, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor for a short to 12 volts or consider a possible issue with the PCM.
If the power supply circuit is functioning correctly, use the DVOM to check for 5V on the Camshaft Position Sensor signal circuit. If there is no 5 volts or if you observe 12 volts, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor or consider a possible issue with the PCM.
Next, ensure that each sensor has a good ground. Connect a test light to the positive terminal of a 12V battery and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit of the Camshaft Sensor. If the test light does not illuminate, there is a problem with the circuit. If the test light does illuminate, wiggle the wiring harness connected to each sensor to check for any flickering of the test light, indicating an intermittent connection.
Related Camshaft Trouble Codes: P0340, P0341, P0342, P0343, P0344, P0345, P0346, P0347, P0348, P0349, P0365, P0366, P0367, P0369, P0390, P0391, P0392, P0393, P0394.
