P342A BMW Fault Code

Description:

The Camshaft Position sensor will signal the Engine Control Module when the #1 cylinder is ready for the spark plug to fire (top-dead-center on compression stroke).

The ECM uses the information from this sensor to help calculate fuel delivery and spark timing.

P342A Code Symptoms :

The original multi-displacement system turned off opposite pairs of cylinders, allowing the engine to have three different configurations and displacements. P342A code had an elaborate diagnostics procedure, including showing engine trouble codes on the air conditionning display. However, the system was troublesome, misunderstood by customers, and a rash of unpredictable failures led to the technology being quickly retired.

Diagnosis And Repairing P342A

P342A OBD 2 code on vehicles with electronically controlled automatic transmissions, the 3-4 shift solenoid is responsible for actuating the hydraulic circuits to activate clutches or bands that change gears inside the automatic transmission.

How to fix P342A code ?

• Exhaust gas leaks
• Camshaft advance mechanism binding (VCT unit)
• Faulty spark plug (s)
• Spark plugs may be faulty

Some systems require that the actuator has an adequate supply of brake fluid. Low brake fluid levels can mimic the symptoms of code P342A, so consult the manual to locate the brake fluid reservoir.

Bear in mind that a low fluid level can set code P342A on some applications, so make sure that on fluid operated systems the fluid level is up to the mark before starting an electrical diagnosis.