P0340 on Acura: How to Diagnose & Fix
Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
1 Acura model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $800-$1,500 repair
P0340 on Acura by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
First-generation MDX models with the J35 V6 are prone to timing belt tensioner bearing failure and simultaneous water pump leaks when the timing belt service is neglected past 105,000 miles. The hydraulic tensioner loses pressure, allowing the belt to skip teeth and potentially bend valves on this interference engine.
Common Symptoms
- Ticking or rattling noise from front of engine on startup
- Coolant leak from water pump weep hole
- Engine runs rough after high-mileage
- Squealing noise from belt area
- Engine misfires at high RPM
How to Fix
Replace the timing belt, tensioner, water pump, and all idler pulleys as a complete kit at 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Use genuine Honda/Acura components or the verified AISIN kit matched to the year split: TKH-001 for 2001–2002 and TKH-002 for 2003–2006. Never reuse the old tensioner even if it appears functional. This is a critical interference engine — a broken belt destroys the valves.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- 2001–2002 AISIN TKH-001Fits 2001-2002
Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2001–2002 AISIN TKH-001.
- 2003–2006 AISIN TKH-002Fits 2003-2006
Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2003–2006 AISIN TKH-002.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningThis is an INTERFERENCE engine. If the timing belt breaks, the pistons hit the valves and you are looking at a $3,000-5,000 head repair. Do the belt, tensioner, and water pump together at 100k miles — it is the single most important maintenance item on these engines.
Sources for this issue (2)
P0340 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0340 mean on a Acura?
P0340 stands for "Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction." This code means the engine computer lost or received an erratic signal from the camshaft position sensor. That sensor tells the computer the exact position and speed of the camshaft, which it uses together with the crankshaft sensor to time fuel injection and spark precisely. When the camshaft signal is missing, intermittent, or out of range, the computer sets P0340. Symptoms often include hard starting, stalling, rough running, or a no-start because the engine can't time itself correctly. On Acura it is documented across 1 model: MDX.
What are the most common causes of P0340?
The most common causes of P0340 are: Failed camshaft position sensor, Corroded or loose sensor connector, Damaged or shorted sensor wiring, Bad reluctor/tone ring on the camshaft, Loose timing chain/belt or jumped timing, Metal debris or oil contamination on the sensor tip, Poor sensor power or ground supply, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0340 on a Acura?
Published repair estimates on Acura range from $800 to $1,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0340 on a different make?
View P0340 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.