Honda Code P0341 Explained: Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Range/Performance (Bank 1)

On a Honda, OBD-II code P0341 means the engine control module is seeing an out-of-range or inconsistent signal from the camshaft position sensor “A” on Bank 1. In practice, it points to a cam sensor signal problem or a cam-to-crank timing correlation issue, often caused by a failing sensor, wiring or connector faults, oil-related variable timing problems, or a misaligned/stretched timing belt or chain.

What P0341 Means on a Honda

The camshaft position (CMP) sensor tracks camshaft rotation so the ECU can time fuel injection and ignition precisely. P0341 sets when that CMP “A” signal (typically the intake cam on DOHC Hondas) is present but outside expected range, noisy, or intermittently incorrect relative to crankshaft position. This is different from P0340, which indicates no/absent CMP signal, and from correlation codes like P0016 that flag a clear mismatch between cam and crank timing.

Common Symptoms

Drivers may notice several telltale behaviors when P0341 is present on a Honda. These range from subtle drivability changes to hard-start conditions and, in some cases, stalling.

• Check Engine light illuminated, sometimes with intermittent behavior
• Hard starting or extended cranking; occasional no-start when warm or cold
• Rough idle, hesitation, or reduced power, especially at low RPM
• Poor fuel economy and possible misfire sensations
• If timing is off: louder engine note, rattling at startup (chain) or belt noise
• Related codes may accompany it: P0340, P0011/P0012, P0016, P0335, or misfire codes

While a Honda may still run with P0341, the symptoms can worsen quickly if the underlying cause is electrical failure or mechanical timing issues.

Likely Causes on Honda Engines

Although P0341 is a “range/performance” fault, its root causes vary from simple electrical issues to mechanical timing concerns, especially on engines with variable valve timing (VTC/i-VTEC).

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (degraded internal electronics or contamination)
• Wiring/connector problems: damaged insulation, poor terminals, oil intrusion, corrosion, poor grounds
• Incorrect cam/crank correlation: mis-timed timing belt/chain after service, stretched chain, worn tensioner
• VTC (cam phaser) concerns: sticking actuator or clogged oil control valve/screen affecting cam phasing
• Dirty, low, or wrong-viscosity engine oil leading to unstable cam timing
• Damaged or misaligned cam pulse plate/reluctor wheel
• Electrical noise or low system voltage during cranking (weak battery/alternator, aftermarket electrical add-ons)
• ECM software anomalies (less common; check for updated calibrations/TSBs)

On many Hondas, oil condition and accurate mechanical timing are critical—issues in either area often trigger P0341 alongside VTC-related codes.

How to Diagnose It (Prioritized)

A structured approach minimizes parts-swapping and pinpoints whether P0341 is electrical, oil/VTC-related, or mechanical timing.

1. Confirm the code and capture freeze-frame data; look for related codes like P0340, P0011/P0016, or P0335.
2. Check oil level and condition; replace with correct spec if dirty/low. Inspect the VTC spool valve and its screen for debris if accessible.
3. Battery/charging check: ensure strong cranking voltage (≥10.5 V during crank) and healthy alternator output.
4. Inspect the CMP sensor connector and harness: look for broken locks, oil-soaked plugs, green corrosion, chafing near the valve cover, and poor grounds.
5. Verify CMP sensor power/ground/signal with a multimeter; a labscope is ideal to compare cam and crank waveforms for noise or phase errors.
6. If waveforms suggest correlation issues, check mechanical timing: set the engine to TDC and verify cam timing marks; inspect chain/belt tensioner condition.
7. On VTC-equipped engines, command the actuator with a scan tool (if supported) to confirm it moves and returns correctly; inspect the oil control valve.
8. If the sensor tests weak/noisy, replace it with an OEM Honda sensor; clear codes and road test while monitoring live data.
9. If timing is off, re-time the belt/chain; replace worn tensioners/guides and address any damaged reluctor.
10. Check for applicable Honda technical service bulletins or ECM software updates and apply as needed.

After repairs, clear codes, complete a drive cycle, and confirm readiness monitors and that P0341 does not return.

Model-Specific Notes for Hondas

Engine design and maintenance history influence how P0341 appears across the Honda lineup.

• Timing belts (older D/F-series and many J-series V6 through early 2010s): Slight belt misalignment after service commonly sets P0341; re-check marks and tension.
• Timing chains (K-series, R-series, L15/L15B turbo, Earth Dreams): Chain stretch or a sticky VTC actuator can skew cam/crank correlation, especially with overdue oil changes.
• Sensor “A” typically refers to the intake cam sensor on DOHC engines; Bank 1 is the only bank on inline engines and the front bank on V6 models.
• Oil quality is critical on i-VTEC/VTC engines; long intervals or sludge can trigger correlation faults without any electrical failure.
• Use OEM sensors; aftermarket CMP sensors can produce weak signals that trip P0341 even when new.

Knowing which timing system your Honda uses—and its service history—helps you prioritize whether to focus on electrical checks, oil/VTC health, or mechanical timing.

Repair Options and Typical Costs

Costs vary by root cause; many P0341 cases are resolved without major engine work.

• Camshaft position sensor (OEM): $60–$180 for the part; 0.3–0.7 labor hours in most models
• Wiring/connector repair: $0–$200 depending on damage and accessibility
• Oil and filter service, plus cleaning VTC screens/solenoids: $50–$200
• VTC actuator or oil control valve: $150–$400 parts; $150–$500 labor depending on access
• Timing belt re-time/service: $400–$1,200 (more if water pump/idlers included)
• Timing chain/tensioner/guides: $1,000–$2,500 depending on engine and labor rates

Start with the least invasive fixes—oil service, electrical checks, and sensor replacement—before committing to timing component work unless correlation is clearly off.

Can You Drive With P0341?

Often the vehicle will run, but drivability can be compromised. Short, cautious trips to a shop are usually fine if the engine starts and runs smoothly. Avoid extended driving if there’s hard starting, stalling, misfire, or rattling noises—unresolved timing issues can risk catalytic converter damage or, in severe cases, engine harm.

Prevention Tips

A few maintenance habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of P0341 returning.

• Change oil on time with the correct viscosity and quality; keep VTC screens clean
• Use OEM Honda cam/crank sensors
• Maintain a healthy battery and charging system; fix weak cranking
• During timing service, double-check marks and tension; replace related components proactively
• Protect and properly route sensor wiring; repair valve cover leaks that can wick oil into connectors
• Apply ECM software updates and heed applicable Honda service bulletins

Good maintenance and careful service practices go a long way toward preventing range/performance cam signal faults.

FAQ

These quick clarifications address common confusions around P0341 on Hondas.

• P0341 vs P0340: P0341 is range/performance (signal present but wrong/noisy); P0340 is a circuit fault or no signal.
• P0341 vs P0016: P0016 flags a clear cam/crank correlation error; P0341 may precede it if the signal is unstable.
• Can a bad crank sensor cause P0341? Yes—if the crank signal is erratic, the ECU may judge the cam signal out of range.
• Does low/dirty oil matter? Yes—on i-VTEC/VTC engines, oil issues can alter cam timing and trigger P0341.
• Do I need a relearn after repair? Hondas typically don’t require a formal cam/crank relearn; clearing codes and driving often suffices.

Distinguishing between signal absence, noisy signal, and mechanical mistiming helps you choose the correct next step.

Summary

P0341 on a Honda indicates the ECU sees an out-of-range camshaft position “A” signal on Bank 1, commonly from a weak cam sensor, wiring/connector faults, oil-related VTC issues, or incorrect mechanical timing. Verify oil quality, inspect wiring and the sensor, check battery health, and confirm cam/crank correlation before replacing major parts. Using OEM sensors, maintaining oil changes, and careful timing service are the most effective ways to fix—and prevent—this code.

Where is the camshaft position sensor in a bank 1 located?

The Camshaft Position Sensor A, which monitors the intake camshaft on Bank 1, is typically located on the passenger side of the engine (Bank 1), on the cylinder head, and is positioned near the intake manifold or front of the engine. To pinpoint the exact location, identify the passenger side (Bank 1) and then look for the sensor nearest to the intake camshaft at the top of the engine. 
This video explains how to locate engine bank sensors: 1mYOUCANICYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
Steps to locate the sensor:

1. 1. Identify Bank 1: . Opens in new tabIn most engines, especially in a V6 or V8 configuration, Bank 1 is the side of the engine that contains cylinder number 1. This is generally the passenger side of the vehicle. 
2. 2. Identify Sensor A: . Opens in new tabSensor “A” for a camshaft position sensor typically indicates the intake camshaft. 
3. 3. Locate on the Cylinder Head: . Opens in new tabThe sensor will be mounted in the cylinder head on the intake side of the engine, rather than the exhaust side. 
4. 4. Look for the Intake Camshaft: . Opens in new tabThe sensor will be positioned to monitor the intake camshaft, which is often located nearest to the intake manifold or further towards the front of the engine. 

This video shows how to locate the camshaft position sensor on a Chrysler Town and Country: 1mDuby4lifeYouTube · Nov 9, 2023
In Summary:
For a V-engine, Bank 1 is typically the passenger side. Within that bank, “Sensor A” is the intake camshaft position sensor, found on the cylinder head.

How do I fix error code P0341?

To fix a P0341 code, first, use an OBD-II scanner to clear the code and see if it returns. If it reappears, inspect the camshaft position sensor for damage or loose connections and test it with a multimeter. Next, check the wiring harness for corrosion or damage, and verify the camshaft position sensor’s reluctor ring and the timing chain/belt are in good condition and properly aligned. If a fault is found, replace the faulty component, clear the code again, and perform a test drive. 
1. Clear the code and monitor 

• Use an OBD-II scanner to clear the P0341 code.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears.

2. Inspect the Camshaft Position Sensor 

• Locate the camshaft position sensor according to your owner’s manual. 
• Visually inspect it for any physical damage or contamination from engine leaks. 
• Check that the O-ring hasn’t fallen into the sensor hole. 
• Use a multimeter to perform a resistance test on the sensor, comparing the reading to your vehicle’s specifications. 

3. Check the wiring harness 

• Inspect the wiring and connectors leading to the camshaft position sensor for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
• If damage is found, replace or repair the affected wiring.

4. Inspect the timing components 

• Check the camshaft position sensor’s reluctor ring for damage or corrosion. 
• Inspect the timing belt or chain for signs of wear or if it has skipped a tooth. Proper engine timing is crucial for the sensor to function correctly. 

5. Resolve the issue

• Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor if it fails the resistance test. 
• Repair or replace any damaged wiring. 
• Replace the timing belt/chain or reluctor ring if they are found to be the cause. 

6. Test the repair 

• Once the repair is complete, use the OBD-II scanner to clear the code one last time.
• Take the vehicle for an extended test drive to confirm the P0341 code does not return.

How to reset camshaft position actuator?

To reset the camshaft position without a scanner:

1. Turn off all electronic accessories.
2. Ensure air and coolant temperatures are within 9°F of each other.
3. Idle for 2 minutes, then accelerate to 55 mph at part throttle.
4. Maintain 55 mph for 10 minutes.
5. Decelerate to 45 mph without using brakes, and hold for 1 minute.

What causes P0341 Honda?

So what is a Honda P. 0341. Code well it’s a cam shaft position sensor circuit range performance. And what does this mean well the onboard.