What causes fault code P0374?

• Most likely: Defective crankshaft or camshaft position sensor (high-resolution sensor) • Likely: Damaged wiring harness or short circuit in the signal circuit • Possible: Contamination (metal debris or dirt) on the sensor tone ring/reluctor wheel • Rare: Internal Engine Control Unit (ECU) failure

How do you fix fault code P0374?

STEP 1: Check the sensor connector for corrosion or loose pins. Inspect the wiring harness for signs of fraying or heat damage. STEP 2: Measure the reference voltage to the sensor (typically 5V or 12V). Verify ground circuit integrity (resistance should be < 0.5 Ohms). STEP 3: Use an oscilloscope to probe the signal wire while cranking. A healthy sensor should produce a clear square wave. Absence of pulses confirms a faulty sensor. STEP 4: Replace the sensor and clear the fault codes. Ensure the reluctor wheel is free from debris or physical damage.

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0374 - Timing Reference High Resolution Signal A No Pulses

Q: What does fault code P0374 mean?

P0374 is triggered when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) fails to detect pulses from the high-resolution timing reference sensor 'A' during engine cranking or running. This sensor provides high-frequency feedback to the PCM for micro-adjustments of ignition and fuel injection timing. Without this signal, the PCM cannot accurately calibrate the engine cycle, leading to synchronization failure. This often forces the engine into a limp mode or prevents it from starting entirely, as the PCM loses precise track of the crankshaft/camshaft position in relation to the firing order.

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0374?

• Check engine light on (MIL) • Engine will not start (Crank but no start) • Engine stalling during operation • Rough idling and misfires • Vehicle may enter Limp home mode

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP), Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP), Engine Control Module (ECM), Reluctor Wheel

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

Related Fault Codes

P0300

Random or Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected

P0301

Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

P0302

Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected

P0303

Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Technical Description

P0374 is triggered when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) fails to detect pulses from the high-resolution timing reference sensor 'A' during engine cranking or running. This sensor provides high-frequency feedback to the PCM for micro-adjustments of ignition and fuel injection timing. Without this signal, the PCM cannot accurately calibrate the engine cycle, leading to synchronization failure. This often forces the engine into a limp mode or prevents it from starting entirely, as the PCM loses precise track of the crankshaft/camshaft position in relation to the firing order.

Possible Causes

Defective crankshaft or camshaft position sensor (high-resolution sensor)

Damaged wiring harness or short circuit in the signal circuit

Contamination (metal debris or dirt) on the sensor tone ring/reluctor wheel

Internal Engine Control Unit (ECU) failure

Symptoms

Check engine light on (MIL)

Engine will not start (Crank but no start)

Engine stalling during operation

Rough idling and misfires

Vehicle may enter Limp home mode

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P0374 - Timing Reference High Resolution Signal A No Pulses

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P0374 - Timing Reference High Resolution Signal A No Pulses

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