2006 Ford Expedition P0345 and P0349 Codes: Diagnosis and Fix for 5.4L V8 Engine
Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum but have been working on cars for years — this issue is driving me crazy. I own a 2006 Ford Expedition Limited with a 5.4L V8 engine and am currently experiencing persistent P0345 and P0349 diagnostic trouble codes that won't clear. I've already replaced both cam phaser units (bank 1 and bank 2), used the proper special wedge tool to realign the timing chain, and marked the chain relative to the original timing mark on each phaser. During the bank two reassembly, the camshaft did rotate slightly — but with careful patience, I managed to get everything back into alignment and properly torqued. Bank one went smoothly. After starting the engine, the check engine light immediately comes on, triggering both P0345 and P0349 codes. I've since replaced both crankshaft position sensors (CPS), cam phaser solenoids, and an alternator (which failed just days ago — likely unrelated). My suspicion is that during reassembly, I may have damaged a wiring harness or connector, especially given the intermittent behavior: once I clear the codes, the check engine light stays off for extended driving periods. However, every time I shut down the engine and restart it, the code returns and remains lit until cleared again. The truck runs smoothly — no stalling, no misfires, no choppy idle — but fuel efficiency has noticeably decreased over time. The vehicle is at approximately 167,000 miles and maintained regularly. I'm testing voltage at the CPS connectors: I’m reading only 0.30 volts DC on both grey-with-red and orange wires (should be around 5VDC for proper signal). When I tested continuity in the wiring harness, some sections showed near-zero resistance (max 2 ohms) but no voltage when connected to the PCM under engine operation. I’ve run a new wire in parallel with the original harness from the PCM connector to the CPS plug — this was done because earlier tests revealed sporadic tones instead of steady beeps. Despite this, the P0345/P0349 codes persist after starting. Could it be a faulty PCM? Is there any chance these codes appear specifically when I start the engine after working on the cam phasers? Any insights or testing steps would be greatly appreciated — especially for someone with limited experience in advanced diagnostics but who's committed to fixing this DIY-style.
This is a 5.4L engine? P0345 and P0349 relate to circuit issues on Bank 2 — are you certain which side is Bank 2? Check the electrical connector; they're replaceable and often fail due to loose connections or corrosion.