1996 Dodge Ram 1500 V6 Error Codes P0124 and P0343: Diagnosis and Fix Guide

Are you referring to P0124 and P0343? That’s the correct code format—yes, those are the codes we’re seeing.

Yes, confirmed. The truck shows both P0124 and P0343. We’ve verified the codes with a scan tool.

P0124 is a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) or Pedal Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent fault—this could explain the lack of power. P0343 indicates a camshaft position sensor circuit with high input, which may point to timing issues. First, verify distributor orientation and check wiring connections for both sensors.

Thread moved to the correct technical section (P0 codes).

Thanks—this helps. We’ll try checking those connections and sensor wiring first.

Jeff: I believe I may have made a mistake earlier—I do agree that P0124 is indeed related to the TPS circuit, especially on older Magnum-series engines. TPS failures are very common in this model and can cause poor acceleration or no power at all.

Correct—TPS issues are extremely frequent on 1990s Dodge Ram V6 engines. My earlier comment was inaccurate; the TPS is a top priority for this vehicle.

Still no clear answer about next steps—what should we do first? Should we replace the TPS or just inspect wiring?

The consensus is to begin with a thorough inspection of the TPS circuit: check all wiring, connectors, and ground points. If you have a scan tool capable of graphing TPS signals at KOEO (key off engine), slowly press and release the gas pedal—ideal TPS behavior shows a smooth, linear rise and fall. A jagged or flat line indicates a faulty sensor. Also verify distributor orientation as suggested earlier. Address this first before moving to other components like O2 sensors or fuel system issues. Once you resolve the TPS issue, re-scan for codes. If P0343 persists, then investigate camshaft position and timing alignment.

Got it—thanks! We’ll start with that. The truck runs better when we remove the TPS, which is strange. It idles fine but misses under load. Still showing both P0124 and P0343 after installation. Any idea why removing the sensor improves performance? Should we try a new one from an auto parts store or go with dealer-grade? Also, we cleaned the distributor cap—there was some dirt—but didn’t do a full wiring inspection. We’ll check that properly next weekend.

Thanks for the detailed advice—we’re going to follow it step by step and keep you posted!

We installed a new TPS from an auto parts store, cleaned the distributor cap thoroughly, and confirmed proper orientation. Still no improvement—now the truck runs worse than before. When we removed the TPS again, it ran smoother and quieter. But both P0124 and P0343 remain active. Any thoughts on what could be causing this? Is there a deeper issue with the cam sensor or distributor alignment? We’re starting to feel like we’re just throwing parts at the problem—any professional diagnostics would help, but we don’t have access to tools for full testing.

Confirmed: TPS was replaced from an auto parts store. Distributor orientation is correct. We cleaned the cap and found dirt—but didn’t do a full wiring inspection. The truck runs worse after installing the new TPS. When we removed it, performance improved significantly. Still showing P0124 and P0343. Any suggestions for next steps? This vehicle is becoming a financial burden—considering scrapping it entirely.

Are you certain the distributor is properly oriented? Specifically, when cylinder #1 reaches top dead center (TDC) on compression stroke, should the rotor point directly to terminal #1 in the cap? This is critical for ignition timing.

By 'distributor orientation,' I mean that alignment. We’ve confirmed it’s correct. The TPS we used was from an auto parts store—not dealer-grade. Now the truck idles smoothly and revs when stationary, but as soon as we start driving, it misfires and struggles to maintain speed. Could this be a fuel delivery issue? Any other ideas? Thanks for your help!

Distributor orientation is correct. I meant: when #1 cylinder reaches TDC, the rotor should point to terminal #1 in the cap. Can you get a cam and crank position difference reading using your scan tool? That would help confirm timing accuracy. Also check for clogged fuel filter or low fuel pressure—both are common causes of misfires. Ignition coil condition is another possibility, especially since older engines tend to develop misfiring components over time.

Distributor orientation is confirmed correct. We did not get the TPS from a dealer—got it from an auto parts store (my husband didn’t tell me). Now we’ve learned how to erase codes via the scan tool, but after erasing, we’re getting code P0321 instead. Our mechanic son and my husband are now suggesting pulling the fuel tank to replace the fuel pump and filter. But we don’t have the tools for such a job—this is turning into a costly repair path. We’re now worried about overspending on unnecessary parts.

P0321 (Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range Performance) is not related to fuel pump failure. The fact that you have this code after a recent engine or distributor-related work suggests timing issues. On your 1996 Dodge Ram V6, the 'distributor' in this context refers to the camshaft position sensor—often located on the distributor housing. If the cam gear, crankshaft sensor, flywheel, or distributor phasing is misaligned, you’ll get P0343 and lack of power. The fuel pump issue is unlikely unless there was a major engine rebuild or transfer involved. Instead, prioritize professional verification of timing alignment and signal integrity using a scan tool to check cam and crank signals. Investing in new parts without proper diagnostics is a money pit—your time and budget would be better spent on a qualified technician who can properly scope the sensor signals and verify mechanical alignment.

Thanks for clarifying—that makes much more sense. I appreciate your detailed explanation. We’ll take this advice seriously and seek professional help soon.