P0342High Priority

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input

Category: PowertrainIgnition System / Misfire

7 articles · 2 makes affected

What is P0342?

P0342 is a serious powertrain code indicating the camshaft position sensor circuit is reading too low voltage, which disrupts engine timing and fuel injection. This high-severity issue commonly affects Chevrolet Silverado, Corvette, and Ford Mustang models based on repair data. The code typically triggers when the sensor fails, wiring shorts, or connectors corrode, with repairs averaging $345 across 46 reports.

Common Causes

  • Faulty camshaft position sensor (most common cause)
  • Damaged wiring or short circuits in the sensor circuit
  • Poor electrical connections or corroded connectors
  • Timing chain or belt issues affecting sensor alignment

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Engine misfires or runs rough
  • Difficulty starting or extended cranking
  • Reduced engine power and poor acceleration
  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Engine stalling or hesitation during operation

How to Fix It

  • Replace camshaft position sensor ($150-$400, moderate difficulty)
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring harness ($200-$600, moderate difficulty)
  • Clean or replace corroded electrical connectors ($50-$150, easy)
  • Diagnose and correct timing chain/belt issues ($500-$1700, difficult)

Owner Statistics

Based on 7,630 real owner discussions • 441 confirmed solutions

Dataset (7,630 records)
$832
Average Repair Cost
6%
Success Rate
23%
DIY Repairs
7,630
Data Sources

About This Data

Statistics are aggregated from real owner discussions on Reddit, automotive forums, and YouTube comments. All data is anonymized and represents actual repair experiences reported by vehicle owners.