P0341 is a somewhat common OBDII diagnostic code in the Ford Ranger. It means that there is a Range/Performance problem. In layman terms this means that there is a problem with the signal coming from the Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS).
OBDII P0341 means that there is a problem with the Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS) circuit. While it can be tempting to throw a new camshaft position sensor in and see if it fixes the problem, the CPS doesn’t always end up fixing clearing the code. It can often end up being a wiring problem that causes P0341 in your Ranger. It’s worth doing the due diligence to see what’s causing the code.
P0341 Symptoms: Ford Ranger
The CPS helps an engine determine optimal timing for combustion. When it is not functioning properly, it can cause a lot of drivability problems in your Ranger, if it’ll even run at all.
As stated directly above, often the vehicle won’t even start. If it does it’ll often be in a failsafe mode with the following symptoms:
- Failure to Start
- Poor Idle Quality
- Decreased Fuel Economy
- Drop in Engine Power
Ford Ranger P0341 Causes
P0341 code is often caused by a failure in the Camshaft Position Sensor itself, or the wiring. Here are the most common causes:
- Wiring Issue– The Camshaft Position Sensor wiring is exposed to harsher conditions than a lot of the wiring in your Ranger. It is worth looking at it to see if it has developed a short, or to see if the harness connector is loose or damaged. Here’s a great article on how to diagnose a short in a car. It’s really not complicated once you get the hang of it. Also, if the wiring harness has been moved closer to the spark plug wires, they can cause interference as well.
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure– After examining all of the wiring around the CPS, it’s going to be time to test the sensor itself. Here is a fantastic video on how to do that with a multimeter. If you need a camshaft position sensor, they are pretty reasonable on Amazon.
There are significantly less likely causes for P0341 as well, such as the PCM failing. You’ll need to check the voltage at the camshaft sensor to see if it is within spec, and that the reluctor wheel is ok.
A great place to start is to see if the harness is plugged in tightly at the PCM and at the CPS itself.
Conclusion
P0341 is a serious concern and should be addressed as soon as possible. We recommend taking your Ranger into a mechanic (if it’ll move at all). If you have any suggestions for improving this article, please feel free to leave a comment below. Good luck, and thank you for reading!