Q: Car takes 2-3 tries before starting

asked by on June 28, 2016

My car has 153,000 miles and it is having trouble starting. It takes two or three times before it will start. The spark plugs, fuel pump relay, and fuel filter have been changed. After replacing those I saw that the check engine light doesn't light up at all. I feel like the previous owner should have disclosed this information when I purchased this car. I get the following codes:

  • P0343 Camshaft Position Sensor ""A"" Circuit High, Bank 1 or Single Sensor
  • P0348 Camshaft Position Sensor ""A"" Circuit High, Bank 2

Do these codes mean that I have to replace both sensors or will my car be fine with just one -- and if so, which one?"

A few different things can cause the vehicle to have camshaft sensor codes. The most common would be the failure with the camshaft sensor, timing chain damage, improper timing, or a wiring issue.

The Check Engine Light should illuminate when the key is turned, then go off after a few seconds. This is a failsafe that proves the light is able to work as designed. Other possible causes of a car having starting problems would be the ignition switch, fuel pump, starter, or battery. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to diagnose this fault and perform any repairs that are required.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Lights not working after battery change.
The systems share two different fuses. The 30amp headlight fuse and the 15amp meter fuse. These two fuses may be blown and would need to be checked before further diagnostics would be done. If your bad battery was jump started...
Car stalling when driving
Both of the codes you mentioned have the MAP sensor in common. It is possible that the MAP sensor is faulty on your vehicle. When the vehicle's PCM picks up that the MAP sensor is not functioning, it goes into...
ABS light on even though brakes work fine
The most likely failure is the rear end is having problems with internal bearings of the pinion gear. The noise you hear is the gears clashing in the rear end due to the bearings in the pinion gear. The ASB...
Water leak causing overheating
Replacing the radiator is a straightforward job. Any time the cooling system is serviced, the rest of the system will need to be tested as well. Do not continue to drive the car with the risk of overheating it. Damage...
Instrument cluster is off with a P0600 reading
Hello there, the P0600 code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0600-obd-ii-trouble-code-serial-communication-link-malfunction-by-spencer-clayton) is not one that is normally seen on your 2003 Mercedes ML350. The P0600 code tells us there is a communication link issue with the ECU. This may have been caused by the fuel...
Is it dangerous to drive while reduce engine power light is on?
The engine control module (ECM) has a safety feature built into it when the ECM detects a major fault in the sensors or actuators that can cause the throttle opening to be limited. With the reduced engine power and throttle...
Car engine keeps shaking then it shuts off. Did I ruin it by accidentally putting too much oil in?
It certainly is possible that some engine damage was done. With the oil level reading an inch or more above the full line, it's a safe guess that you were running at least 2 quarts overfilled. Considering the engine holds...
My left rear blinker isn't working but the front one is could it be a short in the wiring?
Hi there. Although it is possible that you have an electrical short on a wire heading to the rear or powering the rear blinker, it is more likely that you have an electrical relay or fuse issue. Most wires on...
can you drive your car with a hole in your catalytic converter
Hi there. It's not recommended to drive a vehicle with a hole in the exhaust system, especially the catalytic converter. In most cases, a hole in the exhaust can cause harmful exhaust gases to leak, which can be harmful to...

Related articles

Top 10 Factors to Consider When Buying a Luxury Car
The The idea of owning a luxury car is appealing. The glossy paint, swoopy lines, and prestigious badges speak of the owner’s success in life, while the interior opulence offers scented leather surfaces, high-tech telematic devices, and all the creature-comfort...
Understanding the BMW Condition Based Servicing and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The BMW Condition Based Servicing system indicates when and what service your car needs.
What Does the Washer Fluid Low Warning Light Mean?
The washer fluid low light warns you when your windshield wiper fluid needs to be checked and refilled soon.