Diagnostic code appears P0345 on the instrument panel Nissan Murano generation Z50 often becomes a real test for the owner. This signal indicates a malfunction in the camshaft position sensor control circuit, which can lead to unstable operation of the V6 engine, loss of power and even the inability to start the engine. Ignoring the problem can aggravate the situation, causing damage to the catalyst due to incorrect ignition timing.
Engine control system (ECU) Nissan Murano Constantly monitors the synchronization of the crankshaft and camshaft. If the signal from the phase sensor is missing or does not coincide with the data from the crankshaft position sensor, the control unit records the error and goes into emergency mode. For the owner, this means a sharp drop in acceleration dynamics and increased fuel consumption.
In this material, we will analyze in detail why this malfunction occurs, how to properly diagnose it yourself, and what steps need to be taken to restore the normal operation of the power unit. It is important to understand that the reason may lie in the sensor itself, in the wiring, or even in the mechanical components of the timing belt.
The essence of the problem and symptoms of the malfunction
Code P0345 stands for "Bank 1 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit". On the VQ35DE engine, which is installed on Nissan Murano Z50, this means that the computer is not receiving correct data about the position of the first camshaft. The system cannot synchronize fuel injection and ignition, which is critical for engine operation.
There are a number of telltale signs you need to look out for that appear long before the Check Engine light comes on. The engine may idle rough, vibrate more than usual, or stall immediately after starting. Sometimes the car simply won’t start; the starter turns the engine, but the engine doesn’t start.
Symptoms may vary depending on the extent of circuit damage:
- 🚗 The car goes into emergency mode (Limp Mode), limiting the speed to 2500-3000 rpm.
- ⛽ Fuel consumption increases significantly due to enrichment of the mixture.
- 💥 Misfires appear, which feel like “triple” of the engine.
⚠️ Warning: If the P0345 code is accompanied by a flashing Check Engine Light, this may indicate a misfire, which can quickly damage the catalytic converter.
Sometimes the problem only appears under certain operating conditions, for example, after the engine has warmed up or when driving on rough roads. This often indicates a break in the wiring, which is due to vibration or thermal expansion of the contacts.
The main causes of the error
The most common reason for the code to appear is P0345 on Nissan Murano is the failure of the camshaft position sensor itself (CMP sensor). Over time, the magnet inside the sensor can become contaminated with metal shavings, and the electronics can fail due to temperature changes.
The second most popular factor is damage to the electrical circuit. The wires going to the sensor may rub against the engine housing or brackets, especially in high temperature areas. Oxidation of the contacts in the connection connector also occurs, which leads to poor contact.
Less obvious but serious reasons include:
- 🔧 Mechanical wear of the timing chain and phase shifters (CVTCS).
- 🔌 Incorrect installation of the sensor or damage to the sealing ring.
- 💻 Engine control unit software failure (rare).
It is important to note that on the VQ35DE engine the sensor is often contaminated with metal shavings that get into the oil channels. This not only breaks the sensor itself, but can also clog the oil receiver mesh.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to simply replace the sensor without clearing the installation area and oil channels of chips. This will lead to repeated failure of the new node.
Sometimes the problem lies in a malfunction of the phase shifter rotor, which is located at the end of the camshaft. If the pin that secures the phase shifter is broken or worn, synchronization will be disrupted even if the sensor is working.
For accurate diagnosis, you must use an OBDII scanner and a multimeter. Without these tools, you can only guess at the cause of the breakdown, which often leads to unnecessary spending on spare parts.
- Up to 100,000 km
- 100,000 - 200,000 km
- More than 200,000 km
- I don't know the exact mileage
Step-by-step diagnostic procedure
The first step in fixing the error is P0345 is a visual inspection. You need to get to the phase sensor, which is located on the cylinder head on the exhaust manifold side. Inspect the connector for oxidation, moisture, or mechanical damage.
Check the integrity of the wires going to the sensor. Look for places where the insulation may have melted from the heat of the engine or rubbed against the sharp edges of metal parts. Even a microcrack in the insulation can cause a short circuit to the housing.
If visually everything is in order, you need to check the electrical parameters:
- 🔋 Measure the supply voltage at the sensor connector (should be about 5V or 12V, depending on the circuit).
- ⚡ Check the ground circuit for resistance.
- 📉 Check the resistance of the sensor itself (the resistance must be within the limits specified in the service book).
Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the connector terminals with the ignition on. If there is no power, the problem may be a fuse or a broken wire to the ECU.
☑️ Sensor circuit diagnostics
In some cases, checking the signal with an oscilloscope helps. This allows you to see the waveform and understand whether the sensor is actually generating pulses when the engine rotates.
How to check the sensor without a scanner?|You can temporarily disconnect the phase sensor connector and start the engine. If the engine begins to operate more stably (albeit with errors), this may indirectly indicate a malfunction of the sensor itself, since the ECU will switch to emergency algorithms, ignoring the incorrect signal.-->
It is also worth checking the condition of the oil filter and the quality of the oil. Dirty oil or wear debris may indicate that the system needs to be flushed before installing new parts.
Repair and replacement of position sensor
If diagnostics confirm a malfunction of the sensor itself, it must be replaced. On Nissan Murano Z50 The replacement process is not difficult, but requires care. You will need a new sensor CMP sensor and an o-ring.
Allow the engine to cool before starting work to avoid burns. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety. Remove the plastic engine cover and unscrew the sensor connector.
The replacement process includes the following steps
- 🛠️ Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt and carefully remove it from the seat.
- 🧹 Thoroughly clean the installation site of dirt and metal shavings.
- 🔄 Install the new sensor with a new O-ring and tighten the bolt.
After installation, be sure to clean the connector pins before connecting. Use contact spray to remove oxides and ensure a secure connection.
Don't forget to clean the oil passages if the cause is contamination. Metal shavings can remain in the cylinder head and continue to damage new parts.
After replacing the sensor, it is necessary to erase errors from the ECU memory and conduct a test run. The engine should run smoothly and the P0345 code should not appear immediately.
Problems with phase shifters and timing chain
If replacing the sensor does not produce results, the problem may be deeper - in the mechanical part of the timing belt. Worn phase shifters (CVTCS) are common on VQ35DE engines. These are devices that change the timing of valve opening.
Wear on the gears or the phase shifter rotor causes the camshaft to not be in the correct position. The sensor is in good working order, but the signal about the shaft position does not correspond to the data from the crankshaft.
Indirect signs of phase shifter wear are:
- 🔊 Knocking or rustling noise in the timing chain area on a cold engine.
- ⏱️ Difficulty starting the engine after a long stay.
- 📉 Loss of power at low and medium speeds.
In this case, more serious repairs will be required, including removing the timing chain and replacing the phase shifters. This is an expensive procedure that requires highly qualified specialists.
It's also worth checking the chain tensioner. If the circuit is stretched, the phase synchronization may be disrupted, causing the P0345 code.
| Detail | Problem Symptom | Difficulty of replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Phase sensor (CMP) | Error P0345, engine tripping | Low |
| Wiring | Spontaneous occurrence of an error | Average |
| Phase shifter (CVTCS) | Timing belt knock, poor start | High |
| Timing chain | Metal noise, slipping | High |
| Engine ECU | No signals | Extremely high |
Resetting the error and checking the result
After repair work is completed, the error code must be reset. This can be done using a diagnostic scan tool or by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes.
It is important to do a test drive to ensure that the error does not return. The engine must operate stably in all modes: from idle to maximum speed.
If the error appears again, it means that the cause has not been completely eliminated. Perhaps the problem is in another sensor or in the mechanical part of the timing belt.
In some cases, adaptation of the ECU is required. After replacing the phase sensor, the control unit may require time to learn new engine operating parameters.
A successful repair does not end with the installation of a new part. Be sure to test drive and make sure that the P0345 code does not return for a long time.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the diagnosis to professionals. Incorrect timing assembly can cause serious engine damage.
Regular maintenance and the use of quality oil will help prevent many problems with sensors and timing belts.
Repair costs and prevention
The cost of replacing the phase sensor with Nissan Murano Z50 relatively small. The part itself is inexpensive, and the work of the master takes about an hour. However, if the problem is in the phase shifters or the circuit, the cost of repairs can increase several times.
Prevention of errors includes regular oil and filter changes. Clean oil prevents the formation of metal shavings and clogging of oil passages.
It is also recommended to periodically check the condition of wiring and connectors, especially in high temperature areas. This will help avoid breaks and oxidation of contacts.
Don't ignore the first signs of trouble. Early diagnosis and repair will avoid costly engine repairs in the future.
Use only original spare parts or high-quality analogues. Cheap sensors often have a shorter lifespan and may fail prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to drive with P0345?
Technically, the car can move, but the engine will be unstable. Extended use may damage the catalyst and other components. It is recommended to correct the problem as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to replace a phase sensor?
The cost of the part itself varies from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles, depending on the manufacturer. Replacement work usually costs from 1000 to 2500 rubles. If phase shifters need to be replaced, the price will increase to 20-40 thousand rubles.
How to clean the sensor from chips?
The sensor can be washed in gasoline or a special carburetor cleaner. The magnetic part must be carefully wiped with a rag. However, if the sensor is damaged, it is better to replace it with a new one.
Could P0345 be a false alarm?
Sometimes the error occurs due to poor contact or power surge. If after checking the wiring and resetting the error it does not return, the problem was temporary. But most often this is a sign of a real malfunction.
What to do if the error only appears when it’s hot?
This often indicates a problem with wiring or contacts that are expanding when heated. Carefully inspect the connectors and wires for chafing or poor contact.