Error P0345 on cars Nissan Murano - This is one of the most common failures encountered by owners of second and third generation crossovers. The engine management system detects a malfunction of the camshaft position sensor circuit (Bank 2), which leads to unstable operation of the power unit. In most cases, the problem lies not in the engine itself, but in the electrics or mechanics of the gas distribution.
Ignoring a failure signal can lead to serious consequences for V6 3.5 VQ35DE or VQ35HR. The engine goes into emergency mode, losing power, and in the worst case, the timing chain turns. You need to quickly carry out diagnostics to avoid costly engine overhauls.
The essence of the error and the operation of the VTC system
Code P0345 means "Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit (Bank 2)". In engines Nissan Murano a variable valve timing system (VTC) is used, which is controlled through hydraulic couplings. The ECU compares signals from the crankshaft and camshaft sensors. If the desynchronization exceeds acceptable limits, the computer generates an error.
Most often the problem occurs on a cold engine or with a sudden change in speed. System VTC cannot adjust the phases correctly because the sensor does not send the correct signal. This is critical for the operation of the fuel injection and ignition system. Without synchronization, the motor does not work efficiently and may stall.
Symptoms of an error appearing on Nissan Murano include:
- 🔴Check Engine light comes on on the dashboard
- 🔴 Floating idle speed (from 600 to 1200 rpm)
- 🔴 Loss of traction during acceleration and difficulty starting the engine
- 🔴Increased fuel consumption due to incorrect operation of the cylinders
The main reasons for the failure
The most common reason is failure of the camshaft position sensor. Over time, the magnetic element inside the sensor loses its properties, or the contacts become dirty. On Nissan Murano The sensors are located in hard-to-reach places, which makes it difficult to visually inspect them without partial disassembly.
The second most popular reason is mechanical stretching. timing chains or wear of dampers. If the chain jumps one tooth, the synchronization is disrupted and the ECU records an error. Also, the phase shifter (VTC clutch) often wears out, which cannot maintain the desired position under oil pressure.
Problems may also be hidden in the electrical part:
- 🔴 Open or short circuit in the wiring harness
- 🔴 Oxidation of contacts in the sensor connector
- 🔴 ECU malfunction (less common, but possible)
- 🔴 Low oil pressure in the system
Circuit Diagnostics and Testing
The first step should be to check the resistance and voltage at the sensor. You need to disconnect the connector and measure the parameters with a multimeter. The resistance should be between 800-1200 Ohms. If the readings are outside these limits, the sensor faulty.
Check the integrity of the wires going to the sensor. Often, insulation chafing occurs at points of contact with the engine housing or other units. On Nissan Murano V6 engine vibration can damage the wiring harness over time, leading to intermittent failures.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to start the engine with the sensor disconnected for a long time. This can lead to overheating of the catalyst and failure of the exhaust system due to incorrect mixture composition.
- The car won't start
- RPM fluctuates at idle
- The problem is only when it's hot
- There is no error, but the engine is running poorly
Sensor and Coupling Replacement Procedure
Replacing the camshaft position sensor with Nissan Murano requires accuracy. Depending on the generation, access may be limited by the thermostat or the intake manifold. It is necessary to remove the decorative engine cover and disconnect the battery terminal.
If the problem is the VTC clutch, replacement will require removing the valve cover and possibly the timing chain. This is more labor-intensive work. Make sure that when replacing you use original parts or high-quality analogues, as cheap sensors often become unstable after just a few months.
☑️ Preparing to replace the sensor
Nuances of firmware and adaptation
After replacing the sensor or coupling, it is necessary to reset the errors and adapt the system. Simply deleting codes through a scanner may not help, since the ECU has remembered the parameters of the old faulty system. You need to carry out the idle speed learning procedure.
Sometimes it is necessary to reflash the ECU if the error persists after replacing all mechanical and electrical components. This may indicate a software glitch that can be resolved by updating the software to the latest version from the manufacturer. Nissan.
What should I do if the P0345 code returns immediately?
If the error returns immediately after reset, check the oil pressure. Low pressure will not allow the VTC clutch to hold phases. Also check to see if the timing chain has jumped one tooth. In rare cases, the problem may be in the engine control unit itself, which requires repair or replacement.
⚠️ Attention: When resetting engine adaptations, do not close the throttle or touch the gas pedal during the learning process. The process may take up to 10 minutes and interruption will result in the procedure having to be repeated.
Repair costs and prevention
The cost of repairs varies from the price of the part to the complexity of the work. Camshaft position sensor for Nissan Murano is relatively inexpensive, but the labor to replace it can be expensive due to labor-intensive access. Replacing the VTC coupling is significantly more expensive.
Error prevention includes regularly checking the oil level and quality. Using low-quality oil or not changing it on time leads to rapid wear of the VTC hydraulic components and chain stretching.
- 💡 Change the oil every 7-8 thousand km
- 💡 Use only recommended viscosities (5W-30 or 5W-40)
- 💡 Keep the oil filter clean
- 💡 Check sensors at every maintenance
| Component | Symptom of failure | Average cost (RUB) | Difficulty of replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camshaft sensor | Error P0345, floating speed | 2500 - 4000 | Average |
| VTC coupling (phase shifter) | Noise when starting, loss of traction | 15000 - 25000 | High |
| Timing chain | Metallic ringing, phase error | 30000 - 50000 (set) | Very high |
| Connector/Wiring Harness | Random errors, signal loss | 1500 - 3000 | Low |
Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality consumables are the only way to prevent premature wear of the VTC clutch and timing chain stretching, which are the main causes of the P0345 code.
Features of VQ35DE and VQ35HR engines
Engines VQ35DE and VQ35HR, installed on Nissan Murano, have their own design features. HR versions use a variable timing system on both camshafts (intake and exhaust), which complicates diagnostics. The P0345 code can be caused by problems with both the intake and exhaust shafts.
In motors DE wear of clutch drive gears is more common. This is a mechanical problem that cannot be solved by replacing the sensor. It is necessary to open the valve cover and inspect the gears for chipped or worn teeth.
⚠️ Attention: If, when starting the engine, a characteristic metallic knock is heard, which disappears after 1-2 seconds, this is a sure sign of wear on the VTC coupling. Ignoring this symptom can lead to an open circuit and the valves meeting the pistons.
When purchasing a used Nissan Murano, be sure to check for P0345 in the scanner memory, even if the Check Engine light is not on. Often, owners make mistakes before selling, hiding problems with the timing chain.
Common mistakes during self-diagnosis
Many owners try to solve the problem by simply replacing the sensor without checking the mechanics. If the chain is stretched, a new sensor will not correct the situation and the error will return. It is necessary to check the timing marks, especially after a mileage of more than 150,000 km.
Another common mistake is using non-original sensors. Chinese analogs often have incorrect magnetic field characteristics, which leads to false alarms of the system. ECU Nissan very sensitive to signal quality.
Is it possible to drive with P0345?
Technically possible, but not recommended. The engine will run in emergency mode with a lean mixture, which will lead to overheating. In addition, the loss of power can become critical when overtaking or driving uphill. If the error is accompanied by a knocking sound, operation is prohibited until the cause is eliminated.
Don't try to diagnose a P0345 problem based on appearance alone. Use a professional scanner to view real-time data to see timing and shaft timing.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Why does P0345 only appear when it is cold?
This may be due to oil thickening at low temperatures, making it difficult for the VTC hydraulic coupling to operate. It is also possible that contacts in the sensor connector may fail due to thermal expansion.
Is it necessary to change the timing chain for the P0345 code?
Not always. First you need to check the sensor and coupling. If the timing marks match and the sensor is good, the chain may be fine. But with a mileage of over 200 thousand km, the risk of chain stretching is very high.
Could P0345 cause poor starting?
Yes, if the ECU does not receive a signal about the camshaft position, it cannot correctly calculate the timing of fuel injection and ignition, which leads to a long starting time or inability to start the engine.
How much does it cost to diagnose error P0345 at a service center?
The cost of computer diagnostics averages 1500-3000 rubles. If components need to be removed for visual inspection, the cost of the work will be significantly higher.
Does fuel quality affect the occurrence of P0345?
Fuel quality indirectly affects engine performance, but does not directly lead to error P0345. However, bad fuel can clog the injectors and catalyst, placing additional stress on the timing system.