P0340 — Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit — 6.0 Power Stroke
P0340 on the 6.0L Power Stroke means the PCM has detected a fault in the camshaft position (CMP) sensor circuit. On this platform a lost CMP signal can cause…
What it means
Generic definition: The PCM has detected a fault in the camshaft position (CMP) sensor circuit. Typical on this platform: On the 6.0L a lost CMP signal causes crank-no-start or stalling; check the sensor, connector and wiring, and compare with CKP signal on a scan tool while cranking.1
Most likely causes
- CMP sensor internal failure or heat-related signal loss — The CMP sensor can fail electrically or lose signal when hot, leading to a circuit fault and loss of engine speed/position sync.1
- CMP sensor connector or wiring damage / chafing — Connector corrosion, loose terminals, or harness chafing (e.g., near hot or moving components) can open/short the CMP circuit.1
- CMP signal interference or loss due to engine speed/position sync issue — A missing or erratic CMP signal relative to CKP can set P0340; verify RPM is present on the scan tool while cranking and compare CMP vs CKP sync.12
- PCM power/ground or reference-voltage issue affecting CMP circuit — Poor PCM power/ground or a reference-voltage problem can manifest as a CMP circuit fault; inspect related fuses, grounds, and harness integrity.3
How to diagnose
- Verify symptom and freeze-frame: confirm crank-no-start, stall, or rough running with P0340 stored; note engine temp and run time.
- Check scan-tool data while cranking: confirm RPM is displayed (CKP present) and look for CMP sync/status; a missing CMP signal with good CKP points to CMP circuit.
- Inspect CMP sensor and connector: examine for oil contamination, corrosion, damaged terminals, and secure connection; check harness for chafing, heat damage, or rubbing near the engine/valve cover.
- Check CMP reference voltage and signal wiring integrity: with key-on, verify reference voltage at the sensor per service info and inspect continuity to PCM; repair any opens/shorts or chafed sections.
- Compare CMP vs CKP signals on a lab scope or scan tool while cranking: look for clean, consistent patterns and proper sync; replace CMP sensor if signal is absent/erratic and wiring checks good.
- Clear codes and retest: after repairs, crank/run and confirm P0340 does not return and CMP sync is maintained under hot and cold conditions.
Parts and tools you may need
- Digital multimeter
- Scan tool with live data and cranking RPM display
- Lab scope (optional for waveform comparison)
- Basic hand tools for sensor removal
- Dielectric grease
- Wiring repair kit (terminals, loom, tape)
- Replacement CMP sensor (OEM spec)
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Reads P0340 and shows live RPM/CMP sync status while cranking to confirm CKP present but CMP missing.
- digital multimeter — Checks CMP reference voltage at the sensor and verifies continuity of signal and ground wires to the PCM.
- lab scope — Compares clean CMP vs CKP waveforms during cranking to detect absent or erratic cam signal and sync issues.
Rough cost and difficulty
| Likely repair | Parts | Shop labor | Who usually does it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shop diagnosis | — | 1–2 hrs | Shop |
| Wiring or connector repair | $10–$100 | 1–4 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor | $40–$200 | 0.5–2 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| ECM/PCM replacement (programmed) | $600–$2,000 | 1–3 hrs | Shop |
Typical US independent-shop figures; labor runs about $120–$180 per hour (dealers charge more). Confirm the diagnosis before buying parts.
When to see a pro
If the engine cranks with no start, stalls while driving, or you find damaged harness/PCM connector issues, have a qualified diesel technician diagnose and repair to avoid misdiagnosis and further damage.
Check for recalls
Recalls are tied to your truck’s VIN, so check yours directly: enter the VIN at NHTSA’s recall lookup. Open safety recalls are repaired free at a dealer.
Sources
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