P34A6
Serious Severity (Level 4)A Camshaft Position Actuator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1
P34A6 usually means a Camshaft Position Actuator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1.
Can you still drive with P34A6?
⚠️Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
Typical repair cost: $50 – $400
Severity Level 4 — Serious
This code indicates a serious issue that can cause noticeable driveability problems and potential engine damage if not addressed. The vehicle should be taken to a mechanic as soon as possible. Extended driving is not recommended.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Engine reading zero or abnormally low
- Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) stored in module memory
- Fault may be intermittent — code may clear itself and reappear
- Reduced vehicle functionality related to the camshaft position sensor
Possible Causes
- Failed camshaft position sensor — internal resistance has increased, outputting a signal lower than specification
- Damaged wiring or corroded connector in the camshaft position sensor circuit introducing high resistance
- Short to ground in the camshaft position sensor signal wire — wire chafed through, signal voltage pulled low
- Loose or oxidized ground connection for the camshaft position sensor — clean the ground and retest before replacing parts
- Low system voltage (weak battery or failing alternator) causing sensor reference voltage to sag
Common Fixes
- Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($44-80 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
- Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $90 diagnostic fee at shop)
- Test camshaft position sensor with a multimeter at the connector — compare readings to factory service manual specs. If out of spec, replace camshaft position sensor ($50-350)
- Check the reference voltage supply to camshaft position sensor — should be steady 5V (or 12V) — if low, trace back to PCM/BCM voltage regulator ($115-391 if module repair needed)
- Perform a voltage drop test on the ground side of the camshaft position sensor circuit — more than 0.1V drop means a bad ground that must be cleaned/repaired ($86-240 at shop)
Estimated Repair Cost
These are estimated costs based on generic repair data. Actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P34A6 mean?
P34A6 stands for "A Camshaft Position Actuator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1". P34A6 usually means a Camshaft Position Actuator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1.
Can you drive with P34A6?
Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
How much does it cost to fix P34A6?
Repair costs for P34A6 typically range from $50 to $400, depending on your vehicle make, model, and local labor rates. Common fixes include: Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($44-80 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the camshaft position sensor wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $90 diagnostic fee at shop); Test camshaft position sensor with a multimeter at the connector — compare readings to factory service manual specs. If out of spec, replace camshaft position sensor ($50-350).
Will P34A6 clear itself?
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