Q: The code read P0341, how do I know if it's the chain or the cam sensor?

asked by on July 30, 2016

My VSA and check emissions light came on, so I went to O'Reilly's to have them scan it to see what the problem was. The code came back, and the guys said it was P0341 and that it said I needed a new Cam Sensor. After doing a lot of research after I got home, I noticed that a lot of people replaced this to only find out they really needed their chain replaced. How do I know if I should replace the sensor, or if I should get the chain looked at?

My car has 96000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

There is a technical service bulletin for the Acura TSX stating that the code may be caused from the timing chain getting stretched until the tensioner cannot keep it tight any longer. This is a result of not getting oil changes on a regular basis, causing premature wear.

If you owned your car since new and never missed an oil change, then you may just have a cam sensor problem. Otherwise you should have the chain wear checked, and if necessary, replace the chain and auto tensioner.

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

Misfiring car won't start 2002 Honda Accord
Hi! When a vehicle's engine will crank over at normal speed but won't start, it is lacking fuel or ignition spark. The test that is performed to check for correct fuel pressure involves attaching a gauge to the fuel rail...
Irregular revving
Is your Check Engine Light on? That may indicate that there is a diagnostic trouble code (dtc) stored. The code may help pinpoint which component requires further testing. Sometimes a dirty idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) will stick during operation...
2011 Dodge Avenger Transmission
Hello. The most basic way to put it is the 3rd and 4th gear are slipping (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-a-slipping-transmission). What was your concern when you had the car diagnosed? Was is just the Check Engine Light, or did you notice a problem...
My 2010 Ford Escape vibrates a lot. There are no leaks at all. What could be the cause?
If the vibration happens when you're stopped at a red light, then it's more than likely caused by a vacuum leak, or fuel or ignition system component failure. Typically, the first three parts that would be inspected are the idle...
Speedometer has quit working.
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a faulty transmission speed sensor. The transmission speed sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-speed-sensor-replacement) relays output shaft speed on the transmission to the ECU which then translates this to the speedometer. When this sensor is not...
serpentine belt keeps breaking
The belt is either too tight or too loose, pulleys (including that on the harmonic balancer), the tensioner, and accessories are out of plane, and/or the belt driven accessories are binding, that is they are not turning freely because the...
Valve Cover Gasket 2006 Toyota Highlander
Hi there - a leaking valve cover gasket (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-valve-cover-gasket-last) can cause misfires if spark plugs, plug wires/boots or coils get wet with oil, and there is a risk of fire if oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold. So it makes...
Serpentine belt
Hi There, It sounds like the serpentine belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/serpentine-drive-belt-replacement) tensioner pulley (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement) may be incorrectly adjusted or potentially worn out. The tensioner pulley is a pulley that allows the tension of the belt to be adjusted. This pulley has a...
best car battery
Hi Cesar. Thanks for contacting us today. There are several brands of car batteries that tend to last longer than most. Interstate, Optima and Duralast are among the best for cold cranking amps, which is really what makes a battery...

Related articles

P0106 OBD-II Trouble Code: Manifold Air Pressure (MAP) Barometric Pressure Sensor Electric Circuit Output Range and Performance Problem
P0106 Trouble code definition Manifold Air Pressure (MAP) Barometric Pressure Sensor Electric Circuit Output Range and Performance Problem What the P0106 code...
P2757 OBD-II Trouble Code: Torque Converter Clutch Press Control Solenoid Control Circuit Performance or Stuck Off
P2757 means a problem with the torque converter clutch pressure control solenoid due to a bad torque converter or solenoid or electrical issues.
B1975 OBD-II Trouble Code: Passenger’s Seat Recline Back Switch Circuit Short to Battery
B1975 means there is a circuit malfunction in passenger seat recline back switch, likely due to damaged electrical components or a faulty switch.