P1345Manufacturer-specific code

P1345 Code: Crankshaft to Camshaft Position Correlation (GM)

On General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac), the P1345 code points to a correlation problem between the crankshaft and camshaft positions. You may notice a loss of power or jerking. A distributor that is installed wrong or a stretched timing chain is the usual cause.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$0 to $900
Difficulty
Medium
System
Ignition and Misfires
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Chevrolet

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

On this page

What the P1345 code means

P1345 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it stands for, not the generic standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac). If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1345
General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac)Crankshaft to camshaft position correlation

On GM V6 and V8 engines with a distributor, the computer compares the camshaft sensor signal with the crankshaft signal to verify the timing.

The computer sets the P1345 code when the relationship between the two signals is not right: the distributor is installed wrong or the valve timing has slipped.

Before you repair anything, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1345 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Loss of power or jerking.
  • Sometimes no symptoms at all.

Likely causes of the P1345 code

  1. Distributor installed wrong after a repair.
  2. Stretched timing chain. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  3. Camshaft sensor. Confirm it by comparing its reading with the actual value.
  4. Distributor gear. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.

How to diagnose the P1345 code step by step

  1. Check the cam retard with the scan tool. It should be close to 0 degrees.
  2. Check how the distributor was installed.
  3. Verify the timing chain.

How to fix the P1345 code

  • Adjust the position of the distributor.
  • Replace the chain if it is stretched, then clear the P1345 code and confirm the cam retard reads near zero.

Technical reference data

  • Allowed cam retard: about plus or minus 2 degrees.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Values are approximate: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

Very common on the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe and S10 with the Vortec 4.3, 5.0 and 5.7 engines.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives the code, and confirm it with a scan tool that supports that brand.

Frequently asked questions about P1345

What does the P1345 code mean on a GM vehicle?
It points to a correlation problem between the crankshaft and camshaft positions. You may notice a loss of power or jerking.
Does P1345 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer code, and on other brands it may not exist or it may mean something else.
Can I drive with a P1345 code?
With caution. If the timing is off, the engine runs poorly and can be damaged, so have it checked before you drive far.
How much does it cost to fix P1345?
On a GM vehicle the cost runs from about $0 to $900. Resetting the distributor position is cheap, while a timing chain replacement costs far more.
Will a P1345 code clear itself?
No. A distributor that is off position or a stretched chain does not correct itself, so the code returns until the timing relationship is fixed.
What is the most common cause of P1345?
A distributor installed in the wrong position after a repair. A stretched timing chain is the next thing to check.

Related codes

Questions about the P1345 code

There are no questions about this code yet. Tell us about your case: vehicle, symptoms and what you have already checked.