P0345 on 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica 3.6L: Camshaft Sensor 'A' Bank 2 Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is widely used, but in the Pacifica's transverse (sideways) layout, Bank 2 is conveniently located at the front of the engine bay, making this specific sensor much easier to access than on rear-wheel-drive models like the Dodge Charger or longitudinal models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Chrysler has also issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for PCM software updates that make the computer less sensitive to minor sensor glitches by changing the code from a one-trip to a two-trip fault. Additionally, this engine has well-documented issues with failing rocker arms and oil pressure problems, which can be the underlying mechanical cause of camshaft sensor codes like P0345.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Engine may be difficult to start or have a no-start condition
• Engine may stall, especially at low speeds or when coming to a stop
• Rough idle or poor engine performance
• Reduced fuel economy
• Noticeable loss of engine power or hesitation during acceleration

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Camshaft Position Sensor (Bank 2 Intake) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Engine Camshaft Position Sensor These sensors are exposed to extreme heat cycles and oil vapor in the engine bay, causing their internal electronics to fail over time. It is the most common point of failure for this code. Using cheap, non-OEM sensors is frequently reported to cause repeat failures.
   How to confirm: Swap the Bank 2 intake sensor with the Bank 1 intake sensor (on the rear cylinder head). Clear the codes. If the code changes to P0340 (Bank 1), the sensor is bad. The sensor is held in by a single T30 Torx bolt.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty sensor with a quality OEM Mopar part (Part No. 5149141AF) 🎬 Watch: A quick walkthrough of the Pacifica sensor replacement. or a reputable aftermarket equivalent from brands like NTK or Delphi.
   Est. part cost: $25-$90
2. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability The wiring harness leading to the sensor can become brittle from heat, and the connector pins can corrode or become contaminated with oil, leading to a poor or intermittent connection.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring and connector for the Bank 2 intake cam sensor. Look for melted plastic, corrosion on the pins, or frayed wires. Wiggle the connector with the engine running to see if it affects the idle. Use a multimeter to check for 5V reference, ground, and signal at the connector.
   Typical fix: Clean the connector with electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease. If the connector or wiring is damaged, replace the connector pigtail.
   Est. part cost: $10-$30
3. Outdated PCM Software ⚪ Low Probability Chrysler released TSB #18-002-19 REV A for 2017 models and #18-050-22 REV A for 2021 models. These updates address overly sensitive monitoring logic. Specifically, TSB 18-002-19 changes P0345 from a one-trip to a two-trip fault, preventing the check engine light from illuminating due to a single, momentary glitch.
   How to confirm: Contact a Chrysler dealership with your vehicle's VIN to see if TSB 18-002-19 REV A, 18-050-22 REV A, or any other relevant software updates are open for your vehicle.
   Typical fix: Have the dealership re-flash the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest software. This is often performed under warranty or as a low-cost service.
   Est. part cost: $0-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Low or Dirty Engine Oil: The Pentastar engine uses oil pressure to operate its Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system. If the oil level is low or the oil is degraded, it can affect cam phaser operation and trigger sensor codes. Always check the oil level and condition as a first step.
• Failing Rocker Arms / Lifters: A very common issue on the 3.6L Pentastar is failed rocker arms, often producing an audible 'ticking' sound. The failed rocker can damage the camshaft lobe, causing the camshaft's rotation to become erratic, which in turn triggers timing codes like P0345.
• Failing Camshaft Phaser or Timing Components: → Shop Engine Camshaft If the sensor and wiring are good, the issue could be mechanical. A problem with the camshaft phaser, a stretched timing chain, or failed tensioners can cause the camshaft's position to be out of sync with what the PCM expects, triggering the code. This is a more complex and expensive repair.
• Loose or Damaged Camshaft Reluctor Ring: → Shop Engine Camshaft The sensor reads a magnetic tone ring (or reluctor wheel) on the camshaft. In some documented cases on the 3.6L Pentastar, this ring can become loose or even fall off, causing an immediate P0345 code and a no-start or limp mode condition. This was confirmed by an owner on a Reddit forum after replacing camshafts.
• Missing Oil Gallery Plug: A well-documented case on a 3.6L Pentastar involved multiple cam codes (P0345, P0349, P0390, P0394) being caused by a missing oil gallery plug under the valve cover. This caused a massive loss of oil pressure to the head, starving the VVT components and triggering the codes.
• Failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM): In very rare cases, the PCM itself can be faulty. This should only be considered after all other possibilities (sensor, wiring, mechanical, software) have been exhaustively ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the trouble codes with an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0345 🎬 See this video for a deep dive into P0345 diagnostics. is the active code.
2. Check the engine oil level and condition. Top off or change if necessary, as low/dirty oil can cause VVT issues.
3. Listen for an engine 'ticking' noise, which could indicate the common Pentastar rocker arm failure.
4. Locate the Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor. It is on the front valve cover (closer to the radiator).
5. Inspect the sensor's electrical connector and wiring for any signs of damage, melting, or oil contamination.
6. Perform a sensor swap test. Disconnect and remove the Bank 2 intake sensor and the Bank 1 intake sensor (on the rear valve cover). Swap their positions.
7. Clear the codes with the scanner and start the engine. Let it run for a minute.
8. Re-scan for codes. If code P0340 (Bank 1) now appears, the sensor you moved is faulty and needs to be replaced.
9. If code P0345 returns, the problem is in the wiring circuit for Bank 2 or a deeper mechanical/software issue.
10. If the sensor is not the cause, test the Bank 2 sensor connector for a 5-volt reference signal, a good ground, and a signal wire using a multimeter.
11. If wiring and sensor are confirmed good, contact a dealer with your VIN to check for relevant PCM software updates (like TSB 18-002-19 REV A or 18-050-22 REV A) before proceeding.
12. If all else fails, consult a professional for diagnosis of the mechanical timing system (phasers, chain, rocker arms, reluctor ring).

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Camshaft Position Sensor (OEM #5149141AF) — This is the most common cause for the P0345 code on this vehicle. The sensor fails electronically over time. It is recommended to use the OEM Mopar part for reliability.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Delphi, NGK/NTK, Hitachi
  OEM price range: $60-$90
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$60

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0340 — This is the equivalent code for Bank 1. If you swap a bad Bank 2 sensor to Bank 1 for diagnosis, this code will appear, confirming the sensor is the problem. If both appear at the same time, it could indicate a systemic issue like a common wiring problem or PCM fault.
• P0390 — This is the code for the exhaust camshaft sensor on the same bank (Bank 2). If both P0345 and P0390 are present, it strongly suggests an issue affecting the entire bank, such as a wiring harness problem, a bad ground, a mechanical timing issue, or an oil pressure problem to that cylinder head.
• P06DD — This code indicates a problem with the engine oil pressure control circuit ('Stuck Off'). It is frequently seen with cam codes on the 3.6L Pentastar and is a strong clue that the root cause may be insufficient oil pressure affecting the VVT system, possibly due to a failing oil pump or missing oil gallery plugs.
• P0349 — This is the 'intermittent' version of P0345. It means the signal from the sensor is dropping out sporadically. You might see this code appear before the sensor fails completely and sets the hard fault P0345. TSB 18-002-19 REV A also addresses this code.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-002-19 REV A: For 2017 models, this PCM software update changes the logic for P0345 (and other cam/crank codes) from a one-trip to a two-trip fault to reduce false positives from temporary glitches.
• 18-050-22 REV A: For 2021 Hybrid models, this TSB involves a PCM flash to correct a condition that can falsely trigger a list of DTCs, including P0345.
• Bulletin #1805022: A manufacturer service bulletin notes that a technician may notice one or more DTCs set, including P0340, P0345, P0365, and P0390.
• Bulletin #1806917: This bulletin addresses intermittent camshaft position sensor circuit faults for Bank 2 Sensor 1 (P0345 and P0349) and Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0340 and P0344).

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Chrysler has issued TSBs (e.g., 18-050-22 REV A, 18-002-19 REV A) that involve software updates to the PCM to prevent false or intermittent camshaft sensor codes. TSB 18-002-19 REV A specifically changes P0345 to a 'two-trip' fault, making it less sensitive to mome

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Camshaft Position Sensor Connector Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: One pin should have a 5-volt reference supply from the PCM. Another pin should have a good ground (< 3 Ohms to chassis ground). The signal wire(s) will also show voltage, often 5V, which is then pulled to ground by the sensor.. Failure: Absence of the 5V reference, a high resistance on the ground circuit, or a short to voltage/ground on the signal wire indicates a wiring or PCM issue, not a sensor failure.
• Camshaft Position Sensor Signal (Hall Effect Test) — expected: Using a voltmeter on the signal wire, the voltage should toggle between 5V and near 0V as a magnet is passed over the sensor tip. This confirms the sensor's internal Hall effect switch is functioning.. Failure: If the voltage does not switch from high to low (or vice-versa) when a magnet is introduced and removed, the sensor is faulty.
• VVT (Oil Control) Solenoid Resistance — expected: Between 8 and 12 Ohms across the two pins of the solenoid.. Failure: A reading significantly outside this range (e.g., 7.5 Ohms or open circuit) indicates a failed solenoid, which can disrupt cam phasing and trigger position codes.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2.0 (Dealer Tool): VVT System Test / Actuator Tests — If the sensor and wiring are confirmed good, a technician can use the dealer scan tool to command the VVT solenoids and cam phasers to move. This can help determine if the underlying cause is mechanical (stuck phaser, bad solenoid) without extensive disassembly. The tool can monitor the camshaft's actual vs. desired position during the test.
• wiTECH 2.0 (Dealer Tool): Loss of Communication Test — This function performs a real-time 'ping test' of all modules on the network. It can be used while performing a 'wiggle test' on the engine wiring harness to see if the camshaft sensor signal drops out due to a network communication fault, helping to isolate intermittent wiring issues that are hard to find with a static multimeter test.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor Connector — On the front valve cover (closer to the radiator), plugged into the intake camshaft position sensor.. This is the primary point for all circuit testing (power, ground, signal). The 3.6L Pentastar uses a 4-wire sensor that contains two separate sensor elements, so a wiring diagram is critical for testing the correct pins for the 'A' (intake) sensor.
• G302 — Typically located on the right front of the vehicle, near the door sill or under the dash/kick panel area.. While not a direct engine ground, a poor body or chassis ground can cause floating voltages and unpredictable behavior in sensitive electronic circuits like the camshaft position sensor. Verifying main grounds is a crucial step when electrical issues are suspected.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'HR Repair' (2017 Chrysler Pacifica) — Low power, Check Engine Light on with codes P0345 and P018C (Fuel Pressure Sensor 'B' Circuit).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis focused only on the camshaft sensor due to the P0345 code.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The root cause was a damaged wiring harness affecting the fuel pressure sensor. A wiring repair kit (p/n 68137864AC) and a new fuel tube with integrated sensor (p/n 68421782AA) were installed, which resolved both the P018C and the P0345 codes. The mechanic noted that electrical noise or voltage issues from the fuel sensor circuit were likely interfering with the cam sensor signal. The cam sensor (p/n 5149141AF) was also replaced as part of the job.
• JK-Forum.com user (2018 Jeep Wrangler JKU with 3.6L Pentastar (engine is mechanically identical)) — Crank-no-start condition after an engine rebuild for rocker arm noise and sludge.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing camshaft position sensors., Verifying 4.9V power and <3 Ohm ground at sensor connectors., Checking for harness shorts., Re-seating all related electrical connectors.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The issue was ultimately determined to be an incorrect mechanical timing setup during the engine rebuild. The presence of all four cam sensor codes (P0340, P0345, P0365, P0390) was the key indicator that the problem was systemic (affecting both banks) and mechanical, rather than a single sensor or wiring fault.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 5149141AF → N/A - Still current — This part number appears to be stable and has been used across a wide range of model years (2011-2025+) for the 3.6L Pentastar engine in various Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram applications.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2020-2021: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) became an available option on gas-powered Pacifica models starting in 2020. While this does not directly change the P0345 diagnosis, it adds a transfer case and other drivetrain components that could potentially complicate access to wiring harnesses or grounds in some areas compared to the standard FWD models.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0340 — Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1). This code will appear if you perform the diagnostic swap test and move a faulty Bank 2 sensor over to the Bank 1 position.
• P0349 — Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2). Often appears alongside P0345 due to shared root causes like oil starvation from a missing oil gallery plug.
• P0390 — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit (Bank 2). Frequently triggered alongside P0345 when there is a mechanical timing issue or oil starvation affecting the entire cylinder head.
• P0394 — Camshaft Position Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2). Another companion code that can appear with P0345 during severe oil starvation events in the 3.6L Pentastar.
• P018C — Fuel Pressure Sensor 'B' Circuit Low. Documented in owner reports as appearing concurrently with P0345 when the vehicle enters a low-power limp mode.

Frequently Asked Questions