1. What is P0345?

P0345 is a Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating a Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2). The camshaft position sensor monitors camshaft rotation and timing, sending critical signals to the ECM for fuel injection and ignition timing. Bank 2 refers to the engine bank opposite cylinder 1. P0345 triggers when the ECM detects irregular voltage, no signal, or implausible data from the Bank 2 camshaft position sensor circuit.

Why It Matters for Chevrolet Silverado 1500

For Silverado 1500 owners—especially those with 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engines—accurate camshaft position data is vital for proper engine timing. A malfunctioning sensor can cause misfires, reduced power (critical for towing), and increased fuel consumption (2–4 MPG drop). In severe cases, P0345 may trigger the ECM to enter limp mode, limiting speed to protect the engine. Addressing it promptly prevents catalytic converter damage from unburned fuel and restores performance.

2. Common Causes in Chevrolet Silverado 1500

P0345 in Silverado 1500 typically stems from issues affecting the Bank 2 camshaft position sensor or its circuit. Common causes include:

• Failed camshaft position sensor (Bank 2) — Internal electronic failure or magnetic pickup damage (common in 100,000+ mile Silverados).
• Wiring or connector faults — Corroded pins, damaged insulation, or loose connections (vulnerable near front engine covers and timing chains).
• Timing chain/belt issues — Stretched chains or worn tensioners causing camshaft timing deviations (notable in 2014–2019 5.3L models).
• Oil contamination — Oil leaks from valve covers or front seals fouling the sensor (common in high-mileage engines with gasket degradation).
• ECM software errors — Rare, but outdated calibration may misinterpret sensor signals (addressed in GM TSB 21-NA-132 for 2019–2022 models).

3. Key Symptoms in Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Owners typically notice one or more of these P0345-related symptoms:

• Check Engine Light illuminated with P0345 (often paired with misfire codes like P0300-P0308)
• Engine hesitation or lack of power during acceleration
• Rough idle or stalling, especially when cold
• Increased fuel consumption and exhaust emissions
• UR1000 live data showing erratic or missing camshaft position signals
• Reduced towing capacity and performance under load

4. Silverado 1500 Models Prone to P0345

While P0345 can occur across model years, certain Silverado 1500 variants show higher incidence due to sensor location and engine design:

• 2014–2019 Silverado 1500 with 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 — Timing chain stretch contributes to sensor signal issues
• 2017–2023 Silverado 1500 6.2L V8 — Higher operating temperatures accelerate sensor degradation
• Silverado 1500 with over 100,000 miles — Sensor wear and wiring fatigue become more common
• Work trucks with heavy towing usage — Increased engine stress accelerates timing component wear

GM TSB 21-NA-132 addresses P0345 in 2019–2021 Silverados, recommending updated sensor installation and ECM reflash for specific VIN ranges.

5. Diagnostic Steps (Silverado 1500 Focus) with UR1000

Use UR1000 to test the Bank 2 camshaft position sensor circuit and identify whether the fault is sensor, wiring, or timing-related:

Case Example: A 2018 Silverado 5.3L showed P0345 with rough idle. UR1000 live data revealed intermittent Bank 2 cam signals. Resistance test was normal, but waveform analysis showed timing drift. Inspection found a stretched timing chain—replacing the chain kit and sensor resolved P0345 and restored performance.

6. Fixes & Execution for Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Fix depends on identified root cause. UR1000’s tests help avoid unnecessary sensor replacement—25% of P0345 cases are wiring or timing issues:

• Replace Bank 2 camshaft position sensor — If circuit tests fail, install OEM-equivalent (GM part #12623169 or equivalent). Clean mounting surface and check for oil leaks.
• Repair wiring/connectors — Splice damaged wires with heat-shrink connectors; clean corroded pins and apply dielectric grease to prevent future issues.
• Timing chain/belt service — For 2014–2019 5.3L models with stretch, replace chain, tensioners, and guides (critical to prevent recurring P0345).
• Fix oil leaks — Replace valve cover gaskets or front seals to prevent sensor contamination (common in high-mileage Silverados).
• ECM reflash — Update software per GM TSB 21-NA-132 for 2019–2022 models with calibration-related issues.

Silverado-Specific Workflow

1. Always perform waveform analysis with UR1000 before replacing the sensor—timing chain issues mimic sensor failures in 5.3L EcoTec3 engines.
2. For 2014–2016 models, inspect the camshaft reluctor ring for damage during sensor replacement—wear can cause erratic signals.
3. After repairs, clear codes and perform a test drive while monitoring UR1000 live data to confirm signal stability under load.

7. Repair Costs & Safety Tips for Silverado 1500

Critical Safety Precautions

• Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on sensors or wiring to prevent electrical shorts.
• Allow engine to cool completely before accessing front covers—components reach high temperatures.
• Use proper torque specifications when reinstalling sensors (18–22 ft-lbs) to avoid damaging threads.
• After timing chain service, verify camshaft/crankshaft synchronization with UR1000 before full operation.

8. Preventive Maintenance for Silverado 1500 P0345

Reduce P0345 risk with these Silverado-specific steps:

• Change engine oil every 5,000–7,500 miles with GM-recommended dexos1™ oil to prevent timing chain wear.
• Inspect camshaft sensor connectors during 60,000-mile service—clean and apply dielectric grease.
• Replace valve cover gaskets every 100,000 miles to prevent oil contamination of sensors.
• Use UR1000 to monitor camshaft/crankshaft signal synchronization quarterly, especially before towing season.
• Address engine misfires promptly—unburned fuel can damage sensors and catalytic converters.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

10. Summary

P0345 (Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit, Bank 2) is a critical code for Chevrolet Silverado 1500 owners, as it impacts engine timing, performance, and emissions. Using the UR1000 diagnostic tool—with its live data monitoring, waveform analysis, and circuit testing—allows accurate diagnosis of whether the issue stems from a faulty sensor, wiring fault, oil leak, or timing chain wear. Most cases resolve with sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or timing chain service. Addressing P0345 promptly restores power, fuel efficiency, and prevents costly engine damage—essential for both daily driving and towing.