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P0135 and P1380/P1381 Faults on 1998 Ford Contour - O2 Sensor & Camshaft Position Issues

Model: 1998 Ford Contour Fault Code: P0135 Posted: 2005-07-17 11:43

I own a 1998 Ford Contour with a four-cylinder engine and approximately 89,000 miles. I'm currently experiencing two diagnostic trouble codes: P0135 (O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction - Bank 1 Sensor 1), P1380 (Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit - Bank 1), and P1381 (Camshaft Position Timing Over Advanced - Bank 1). The P0135 code indicates a malfunction in the oxygen sensor circuit for Bank 1, Sensor 1. The P1380 and P1381 codes suggest issues with the camshaft position actuator and timing, which may be related to variable valve timing (VVT) systems present on this model. I've checked my service manual, but it doesn't clearly explain what a camshaft position actuator is—especially on a four-cylinder engine. The car has been running smoothly for years despite the check engine light being on, and I'm now concerned about passing inspections in New York State, which require the light to be off. I've tried replacing the oxygen sensor, but the issue persists. I'm seeking advice on whether the problem lies with the sensor itself or deeper components such as the camshaft gear, actuator solenoid, or timing system. Any guidance on troubleshooting these codes would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes
P0135
Comments (8)
Anonymous 2006-06-05 12:57

I have the same issue on my 1998 Ford Contour at 100,000 miles. I can't find a clear solution either. My suspicion is that the camshaft timing gear may be worn or misaligned, as the sensor reads one of the teeth in the gear.

Anonymous 2006-06-05 13:48

Why suspect the gear instead of the oxygen sensor? Are the engine timing marks properly aligned? Has there been any recent work on the timing belt or engine components? Does the vehicle run differently, or does it take longer to crank before starting?

Anonymous 2006-06-05 14:00

I replaced the O2 sensor, but surprisingly, the car has run flawlessly for three years with the check engine light on. The issue now is that NY state won't allow inspection with the light active. A repair shop quoted $1,500 to fix it—so I bought a code reader to investigate further. I'm unfamiliar with what a camshaft position actuator is on a four-cylinder engine; none of my manuals mention it. Despite having extensive hands-on experience, I can't diagnose or fix this without knowing the components involved.

Anonymous 2006-06-05 15:30

I’m not very familiar with these systems either—what about contacting a Ford dealer parts department for specific guidance on the camshaft actuator and related components?

Anonymous 2006-06-05 15:37

After researching, I found that this model has variable valve timing. There's a solenoid mounted on the valve cover that adjusts the exhaust camshaft position—either retarding or advancing it. The issue could be with the solenoid itself, its electrical circuit, or the cam gear alignment.

Anonymous 2006-06-05 15:43

Thanks for the insight—I’ll try that. However, I have little hope. I took the car to a Ford dealership when symptoms first appeared and was given vague excuses—apparently they weren’t certain what the issue was either. The car runs fine, so I’ve just maintained it and driven it. Now with state inspection rules, I’m considering not owning another Ford. Every repair on this vehicle has been frustrating or required new tools or a bigger hammer.

Anonymous 2006-06-07 10:12

Thanks—I plan to disassemble the engine this weekend (weather permitting) and inspect the components. It's surprising that service manuals don’t at least mention the camshaft actuator system, especially on a model with VVT.

Anonymous 2006-06-07 13:38

If you're using Haynes manual, I find it to be quite general in its explanations. Chilton offers more detail, but still lacks depth compared to what I’d like for this type of repair.