P0165 Standard V-8 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0165 Standard V-8 code definition:
P0165 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Standard V-8.

P0165 Standard V-8 is defined as Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low. This means the CMP (camshaft position) sensor circuit on engine bank 1 sends an irregular reading. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0165 Standard V-8 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Engine surge
Blown fuse (if applicable)
Lack of power
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)

Common Misdiagnoses

IC Circuit High Voltage Problem
Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem

Repair Processes :

If you find a related TSB, the information will often help in diagnosing the code in question as TSBs are crested from many thousands of repairs. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0165 Standard V-8 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0165 Standard V-8.

Fortunately, P0165 Standard V-8 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.