Faulty VVT (camshaft position) sensor on bank 1; Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the sensor; Open or shorted signal circuit between the sensor and the ECM; Contaminated or sludged engine oil affecting sensor operation; Mechanical timing chain or VVT phaser wear causing an erratic signal; ECM internal fault or poor ground connection

DTC codes / Toyota codes / P1345

P1345 · ToyotaVVT Sensor Circuit Malfunction Bank 1

Q: What does code P1345 mean?

VVT Sensor Circuit Malfunction Bank 1. P1345 on Toyota vehicles indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an electrical fault in the circuit for the camshaft position sensor on bank 1, which Toyota refers to as the VVT (Variable Valve Timing) sensor. The computer monitors the signal wire for an unexpected voltage, an open circuit, or a short to ground or power, and it sets this code when the signal does not match the expected pattern during engine operation.

P1345 on Toyota vehicles indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an electrical fault in the circuit for the camshaft position sensor on bank 1, which Toyota refers to as the VVT (Variable Valve Timing) sensor. The computer monitors the signal wire for an unexpected voltage, an open circuit, or a short to ground or power, and it sets this code when the signal does not match the expected pattern during engine operation.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeToyota specific

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Rough idle or intermittent stalling, especially when the engine is cold
Reduced engine performance or a lack of power during acceleration
Poor fuel economy or an increase in exhaust emissions
Difficulty starting or an extended crank time before the engine fires
In rare cases, the engine may enter limp mode and limit RPM

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty VVT (camshaft position) sensor on bank 1
Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the sensor
Open or shorted signal circuit between the sensor and the ECM
Contaminated or sludged engine oil affecting sensor operation
Mechanical timing chain or VVT phaser wear causing an erratic signal
ECM internal fault or poor ground connection

How to diagnose and fix it

Connect a scan tool and record all stored and pending codes, then clear codes and test-drive to see if P1345 returns
Visually inspect the VVT sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
Check the sensor resistance and signal output with a multimeter according to Toyota specifications
Verify engine oil condition and level, as dirty oil can disrupt VVT sensor performance
Perform a voltage drop test on the sensor ground and power circuits to rule out wiring faults
If the sensor tests bad, replace it with a quality OEM or equivalent part and clear codes
If the code persists after sensor replacement, diagnose the VVT phaser and timing chain for mechanical wear

Before you replace the VVT sensor

A dirty or sludged oil control valve or low oil pressure can cause the VVT sensor signal to become erratic, mimicking a sensor failure and leading to unnecessary replacement.
The VVT sensor on Toyota engines is often confused with the oil control valve solenoid; testing both circuits is essential because a faulty solenoid can set a related code but not always P1345.
Intermittent wiring faults from chafed harnesses near the timing cover are common on higher-mileage Toyota engines and may only appear when the engine is hot or vibrating.
After replacing the sensor, the ECM may need a relearn procedure or several drive cycles before the code clears permanently, so do not assume the repair failed if the light stays on briefly.
A weak battery or poor engine ground can cause voltage spikes that trigger P1345 without any actual sensor fault, so always check charging system health first.

Can I keep driving with P1345?

You can usually drive the vehicle short distances to a repair shop, but avoid heavy acceleration, towing, or long trips because the fault can cause stalling or reduced power. If the engine runs rough or stalls frequently, stop driving and have it diagnosed promptly.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for Toyota vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.