P0345 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)
2 Ford models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $1,500-$4,500 repair
P0345 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 5.4L 3-valve (3V) Triton V8 in 2005-2014 Ford Expedition is notorious for cam phaser failures and timing chain stretch, representing one of the most common and expensive repairs on these trucks. The VCT (Variable Camshaft Timing) system uses oil pressure to actuate the cam phasers - when phasers wear out or chains stretch, the engine sets multiple camshaft correlation codes and rattles on startup. The factory oil pump also wears out at similar intervals, compounding the problem. Running low on oil or using the wrong viscosity dramatically accelerates failure. Left unrepaired, a failed phaser can cause a chain to jump timing, resulting in bent valves and catastrophic engine damage. Repair typically requires complete timing system replacement including both cam phasers, both timing chains, guides, and tensioners - a 12-16 hour job.
Common Symptoms
- Loud rattling/knocking from engine on cold start (top-end rattle)
- Check engine light with codes P0340, P0341, P0344, P0345, P0346, P0349 (cam sensor/phaser codes)
- Codes P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019 (camshaft-crankshaft timing correlation)
- Rough idle, especially when cold
- Engine surging at idle
- Loss of power and poor fuel economy
- Rattle that worsens on acceleration at low RPM
- Multiple misfire codes accompanying timing codes
How to Fix
Complete timing system overhaul: replace both VCT cam phasers, both timing chains, all chain guides, and tensioners as a complete kit. A Ford/Motorcraft 3V cam phaser repair kit (phaser sprockets, timing chains, tensioners and guides) or equivalent is recommended. Also replace the oil pump if over 80,000 miles - worn pump cannot supply adequate oil pressure for VCT system. Use 5W-20 full synthetic oil only. Change oil every 5,000 miles maximum. Labor: 12-16 hours on Expedition due to 4WD and engine mounts.
Sources for this issue (2)
The 2004-2010 5.4L 3-valve Triton uses variable cam timing (VCT) phasers fed by clean, high-pressure engine oil. With infrequent oil changes or normal high-mileage wear, the phasers' internal vanes and locking pins wear out, the plastic timing-chain guides crack, and the hydraulic chain tensioners bleed down. The result is the notorious 'death rattle' — a loud rattle/knock on cold start and a metallic ticking at hot idle.
Common Symptoms
- Loud rattle or knock for several seconds on cold start
- Metallic ticking or rattling at hot idle
- Rough running / loss of power
- Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes
How to Fix
Replace the complete timing set: both cam phasers, primary and secondary timing chains, tensioners, guides, and VCT solenoids. Critical: address at first rattle — running it risks catastrophic engine damage. OEM Ford cam phaser is 3R2Z-6A257-DA (per side); Dorman repair kits and aftermarket full timing kits are common alternatives.
Sources for this issue (3)
- Ford TSB 06-19-8: 4.6L/5.4L 3V ticking/knocking at operating temperature or rattle at startupmanufacturer-tsb
- Ford TSB 10-18-4: low-frequency knock at hot idle, 2009-2010 F-150 4.6L/5.4L 3Vmanufacturer-tsb
- Ford TSB 12-7-10: 5.4L intermittent rattle / rough idle at operating temperaturemanufacturer-tsb
P0345 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 P0345 mean on a Ford?
P0345 stands for "Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)." P0345 means the engine computer detected a malfunction in the camshaft position sensor circuit on bank 2 (the cylinder bank not containing cylinder number one). The camshaft position sensor tells the computer where the camshaft is in its rotation, which it uses for precise fuel injection and ignition timing and to manage cylinder identification. When the signal is missing, erratic, or out of range, the computer can't reliably track cam position, which may cause hard starting, rough running, stalling, or a no-start. The fault is usually in the sensor, its wiring, or the connector rather than the camshaft itself. On Ford it is documented across 2 models: Expedition, F-150.
What are the most common causes of P0345?
The most common causes of P0345 are: Failed camshaft position sensor (bank 2), Damaged wiring, connector, or corrosion in the sensor circuit, Metal debris or oil contaminating the sensor tip, Faulty reluctor/tone wheel on the camshaft, Open or short in the sensor signal or power circuit, Loose timing chain/belt or VVT issue affecting cam timing, Poor ground or low reference voltage to the sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0345 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $1,500 to $4,500 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.