What does it mean?
P1396 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Camshaft Position Sensor “A†Circ Malfunction .
Symptoms
- MIL on and extended cranking before the engine starts
- Occasional no-start or a stall while driving
- Rough idle, hesitation and a misfire feel
- Reduced power and, on some vehicles, odd transmission shift behaviour
- Fuel consumption noticeably higher
Likely causes
- Open circuit, short or high resistance in the sensor signal, supply or ground wire
- Oil contamination inside the sensor connector from a leaking valve cover gasket
- Failed camshaft position sensor
- Damaged or contaminated camshaft target wheel, or a loose camshaft sprocket
- Harness chafed on the valve cover or heat damaged near the exhaust
- Timing chain stretch or a jumped tooth changing the cam signal timing
- Control module input circuit fault
How to fix it
- Watch the cam and crank signals in live data or on a scope while cranking
- Inspect the sensor connector and pigtail for oil, corrosion and damaged pins
- Measure supply voltage, ground and signal at the sensor connector
- Test harness continuity back to the control module and look for chafe points
- Remove the sensor and inspect its tip and the cam target wheel for damage and metal debris
- If the signals are present but out of phase, verify the timing chain alignment against the marks
- Replace the sensor and repair the oil leak that contaminated it, then confirm the signal on a road test