Fix P0365: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P0365: Camshaft Position Sensor “B” Circuit Malfunction indicates a problem with the signal from the camshaft position sensor in Bank 1. This code suggests that the sensor’s signal is either absent, erratic, or outside the expected range. It often arises in vehicles that have experienced significant engine work or aging sensor components.

P0365 quick overview

Meaning	P0365: Camshaft Position Sensor “B” Circuit Malfunction
Is it serious?	Yes, it can be serious as it affects engine timing and performance.
Possible causes	– Faulty camshaft position sensor – Incorrect installation of the sensor – Wiring or connector issues – Timing issues or misalignment – Physical damage to the sensor or camshaft – Engine control module (ECM) problems
How to diagnose?	Inspect the Sensor: Look for physical damage or incorrect installation. Check Wiring/Connectors: Examine for corrosion, damage, or looseness. Scope Sensor Signals: Analyze the waveform of the sensor’s signal. Verify Engine Timing: Ensure that the timing is correctly set, especially after repair work. Measure Voltage: Check the voltage supply to the sensor. Consult Additional Codes: Look for other related error codes for more clues. Check ECM: Evaluate the engine control module for faults.

How to fix P0365 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0365 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: BMW

Vehicle Information

• 2001 BMW 325i, 2.5L engine

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on
• Code P0365 stored (Camshaft Position Sensor Bank “B”)
• Replaced camshaft position sensors for banks “A” & “B”

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• No other codes mentioned

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check cam timing and adjusters
• Verify if cylinder head was removed previously and if it’s aligned properly
• Lab scope the sensors for signal quality
• Test sensor voltages and frequencies
• Use only OE (Original Equipment) or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts
• Check camshaft/crankshaft timing with BMW special tools
• Verify if the issue is with inlet or exhaust cam sensor
• Consider switching sensors to see if the code follows
• Ensure using genuine BMW sensors

Final Fix

• Replaced the “B” sensor with an OE sensor from a different supplier, drove 25 miles to set monitors. Problem solved.

Case #2: Jeep

Vehicle Information

• 2011 Jeep Patriot Latitude X, 2.4L engine

Issue + Repair History

• MIL Lamp on with codes P0369 and P0017 at approx. 1800rpm during pull away
• Initially came in with code P0355, replaced crankshaft position sensor and both cam sensors
• Then started setting code P0365 at approx. 1800rpm after driving away
• Verified all circuits okay and replaced PCM, but no change

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• Performed circuit tests for both cam sensors (banks 1 and 2), with results showing 0.5 ohms

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Scope cam/crank signals to check alignment
• Switch cam sensors to see if the code follows
• Check 5V reference to both sensors
• Consider the possibility of a bad new cam sensor, prefer using Mopar parts
• Compare labscope sensor patterns to known good ones
• Perform cam/crank correlation with a scope
• Use OEM sensors and perform a crank relearn
• Check pin fit on sensor connector and replace sensor with OEM part, then perform cam/crank relearn

Final Fix

• The issue was with the aftermarket cam sensor picking up secondary ignition interference
• Installing an OEM sensor resolved the problem

Case #3: Kia

Vehicle Information

• 1999 Kia Sephia LS, 1.8L engine

Issue + Repair History

• MIL Lamp on with hard starting issue and unusual cranking pattern
• Code P0365 (Crank Position Sensor Out of Range) detected
• Crank position sensor removed and inspected, found metal particles but cleaning did not resolve issue
• Fuel pressure zero with key on engine off, rises to 50 psi when cranked, but drops fast after key off
• Car runs fine once started, issue disappears when warm
• Initial repairs included checking fuel pump, flexplate, and starting system

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• Lab Scope crank sensor waveform looks normal
• Fuel pressure tests conducted

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Replace fuel pump due to pressure bleed down
• Consider replacing starter based on similar symptoms in other cases
• Check for updates on flywheel (flexplate) and starter harness from Kia
• Ensure fuel volume is adequate
• Examine fuel pump relay and connectors for defects

Final Fix

• The problem was linked to a too thin flexplate causing crank signal loss, setting code P0365
• Replaced with a thicker flexplate (3.3 mm) as per Kia service bulletin (ref no: engine 003)
• Also installed a remanufactured starter
• Unresolved issue: Fuel pump not holding pressure, customer warned of potential future problems

Case #4: Audi

Vehicle Information

• 2006 Audi A4 Quattro, 3.2L engine

Issue + Repair History

• MIL Lamp on with code P0365 (Camshaft Position Sensor Malfunction)
• Replaced the sensor on the right bank (Bank 1), but the code persisted

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• No additional codes or test results mentioned

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check for leaks in gaskets or sealing rings of camshaft adjusters and/or timing case
• Verify internal bolts of camshaft adjuster(s) for proper torque
• Assess oil pressure and look for oil leaks from or around camshaft adjusters
• Inspect wiring and connector of the exhaust camshaft position sensor for damage or corrosion
• Swap exhaust camshaft position sensors between banks to see if the fault code follows the sensor
• Examine voltage and signal quality on sensor pins
• Pull out camshaft adjuster solenoids and check for debris as per TSB# 15-06-04
• Inspect the timing of the engine with special tools

Final Fix

• The issue was with the right bank exhaust cam sensor
• The initial approach overcomplicated the diagnosis, highlighting the importance of focusing on basics first

Case #5: Ford

Vehicle Information

• 2011 Ford F-150 XL, 5.0L engine

Issue + Repair History

• Check Engine Light on with codes P0340, P0344, P0369, P0365, P0315
• Heads were removed previously due to bad valves and misfire on #8 cylinder
• After running a crank relearn, code P0315 disappeared
• Concerned about cam alignment on bank one

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit (Bank 1)
• P0344: Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1)
• P0365: Camshaft Position Sensor “B” Circuit (Bank 1)
• P0369: Camshaft Position Sensor “B” Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1)

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check if a ground wire was missed during installation
• Verify power on the violet/green wire at both sensors, should be at battery voltage
• Check for potential shorted cam sensor pulling both circuits down
• Ensure good ground on green/white wires
• Use scanner to compare Cam desired and Cam actual PIDs
• Inspect VVT solenoids
• Scope camshaft sensor bank 1 and recheck timing and harness connectors
• Make sure camshaft pulleys aren’t swapped

Final Fix

• The cam sensors on bank 1 were incorrectly installed; intake and exhaust cam sensors were reversed
• Noticed the issue when sensors were pulled out and the exciter on the cam had been hitting the sensor
• Reversed the sensors and planned to replace the damaged sensor

Advice	Diagnostic Step Description
Check Sensor Placement	Ensure camshaft position sensors are correctly installed in their designated locations.
Verify Sensor Condition	Inspect the camshaft position sensors for damage, debris, or improper contact.
Scope Sensor Signals	Use an oscilloscope to analyze the signal patterns of the sensors for any irregularities.
Check Wiring and Connectors	Examine the wiring and connectors of the sensors for corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
Inspect for Proper Timing	Verify that the engine timing is correct, especially after major engine work.
Confirm Sensor Voltage	Measure the voltage at the sensor connectors to ensure they are receiving proper power.
Replace with OEM Parts	Use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for replacements to ensure compatibility and reliability.
Review Additional Codes	Analyze other related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for a broader understanding of the issue.
Examine Physical Interference	Check for any physical obstructions or issues causing sensor interference.
Perform Systematic Diagnosis	Approach the diagnosis methodically, checking the most common and simplest possibilities first.