P1346Manufacturer-specific code

P1346 Code: VVT Sensor Circuit Range/Performance (Toyota, Bank 1)

On Toyota and Lexus, the P1346 code points to a range or performance problem in the bank 1 VVT sensor circuit. You may notice a rough idle, a loss of power and sometimes a rattle at startup. Valve timing that is off, or a camshaft sensor problem, is behind it.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$20 to $900
Difficulty
Medium
System
Ignition and Misfires
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Toyota

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P1346 code means

P1346 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it stands for, not the generic standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by Toyota and Lexus. If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1346
Toyota and LexusVVT sensor circuit range or performance (bank 1)

The Toyota VVT-i system advances or retards the intake camshaft with a hydraulic gear. The computer controls it with the OCV valve, which meters engine oil, and checks the actual position with the camshaft sensor.

The computer sets the P1346 code when the relationship between the camshaft sensor and the crankshaft sensor is not what is expected. It indicates valve timing that is off or a sensor problem.

Before you repair anything, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1346 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Rough idle, or an engine that stalls.
  • Loss of power.
  • Higher fuel use.

Likely causes of the P1346 code

  1. Timing chain or belt stretched or off by a tooth. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  2. Camshaft sensor. Confirm it by comparing its reading with the actual value.
  3. Damaged VVT gear. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  4. Oil in poor condition. Check the level, condition and viscosity.

How to diagnose the P1346 code step by step

  1. Check the oil level and condition.
  2. Activate the OCV with the scan tool. At idle the engine should shake or stall if it works.
  3. Measure the OCV resistance. It is 6.9 to 7.9 ohms on many engines.
  4. Clean the OCV filter if the engine has one.
  5. Verify the valve timing.

How to fix the P1346 code

  • Change the oil and filter with the correct viscosity.
  • Clean or replace the OCV.
  • Replace the VVT gear if it is damaged.
  • Correct the valve timing if it is off, then clear the P1346 code and confirm it does not return.

Technical reference data

  • OCV resistance: about 6.9 to 7.9 ohms at 20 °C (68 °F).
  • Typical oil: 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the engine.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Values are approximate: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

Very common on the Corolla, Yaris, RAV4 and Camry. Always use the oil viscosity specified and change the oil on time, because VVT-i is very sensitive to it.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives the code, and confirm it with a scan tool that supports that brand.

Frequently asked questions about P1346

What does the P1346 code mean on a Toyota?
It points to a range or performance problem in the bank 1 VVT sensor circuit. You may notice a rough idle, a loss of power and sometimes a rattle at startup.
Does P1346 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer code, and on other brands it may not exist or it may mean something else.
Can I drive with a P1346 code?
Yes, with caution. If you hear a metallic knocking, have it checked soon, since off valve timing can hurt the engine.
How much does it cost to fix P1346?
On a Toyota the cost runs from about $20 to $900. An oil change or an OCV cleaning is cheap, while a timing chain job is on the expensive end.
Will a P1346 code clear itself?
Not if the valve timing is off or a part is failing. Fresh oil may help if sludge was the problem, but a stretched chain will keep the code coming back.
What is the most common cause of P1346?
Valve timing that is stretched or off, or a camshaft sensor problem. Start with the oil level and condition, since they are quick to check.

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