P0365 Camshaft position sensor code after Spark Plug replacement

Hey everyone!

Have a 2018 SR5 with 82k miles. Was overdue for a few small things and today I replaced the spark plugs and engine air filter. Job went easier than expected, mainly due to all the amazing resources available on this forum. Plugs were replaced using the Denso FK20HBR8 3491 off Rock Auto. Made every attempt to torque to about 13lbs, but probably a bit under that on the driver side.

A few things I noticed.

The passenger side middle coil pack is damn near brown. It looks burnt compared to all the other coil packs. I'm going to replace that one. Also the rear plug on the passenger side had a bit of oil on it so will probably be getting the valve gasket replaced.

Here's my issue....finished the job. Hopped in the truck and it started right up. Great idle, however the CEL came on. Initially I thought maybe it would reset after a few key cycles since I was unplugging sensors. On the 3rd time, the truck cranked but wouldn't start. Hopped out and checked all the connections and everything looked good. Hopped back in and it started right up still with the CEL. This pattern repeats, I can get it to fire right up once or twice but then it'll crank and take a minute to start. It does eventually start without excessive cranking.

Drove the truck up to O'Reilly, on the drive it ran so smooth, and really felt great. They put a reader on it and it came back with P0365 - Camshaft Position Sensor "B" circuit. So here's my questions:

Is the Camshaft position sensor "B" the one that's located below the middle of the rear 2 spark plugs on the passenger side? I noticed the wires got kinked which I straightened out, and reseated that sensor. Should I just go ahead and replace the sensor? I'm ordering the coil pack anyways so will be right there.

When replacing the plugs, I did inadvertently remove that sensor thinking I needed the bolt out to remove the plate covering the middle passenger spark plug so could have done something to it inadvertently...not completely sure.

Trying NOT to take it to Toyota for additional diagnostics, so any thoughts people have for me to check would be greatly appreciated!

 

Should clarify that the P0365 code is for Camshaft Position Sensor "B" (Bank 1), which upon looking at it that's the upper intake sensor? I didn't even touch that sensor or plug during the swap so seems odd it would be that one. Still have a feeling it's the lower one...

 

Toyota code is for exhaust, not the intake. Unplug and plug the connector again

 

what color of the wire was kinked? Your sensor probably working, but the wiring is damaged

 

I haven't pulled back the plastic sheeting to check. I think that's going to be my next thing to check, cut away that plastic, check the wires, try to reseat everything on that exhaust sensor. Appreciate the schematic, that's super helpful.

 

Took the sensor out and looks like I may have cracked the plastic when I bolted it in. Think this would cause the code and ignition issue?

 

Additional photo of the sensor

 

Third photo

 

If does not seat flash, it will affect the reading. Try to push it down and hand tight, plug the connector until you hear a click

 

Replace!

 

Yep already got the part on order.

 

Hand tight it. Specs call for 7 ft lbs

 

Yup. Make sure the sensor is fully seated flush by hand, then tighten the bolt

Also make sure there isn't excessive corrosion of the aluminum (where the sensor goes in) and lightly oil the oring. That should make install a bit easier

 

Just as others have said replace it. But, just for fun I would have someone press it into the hole with their hand, securing it in place as I started the vehicle to see if the CEL goes out. Do this carefully and safely of course, perhaps a cold engine.

Just to get back to one of your original concerns. I did not see anyone address the "Brown coil pack"? Is it possible it is just an off-brand replacement from a previous owner?

 

I have a new random issue that has me saying WTF. Took the truck on the highway today and the cruise contol isn't working! I have no idea how that would even happen with something as simple as a spark plug change

Edit: sounds like cruise can be disabled if certain codes are active. I could see how a camshaft issue could lean towards disabling it. Guess I'll see.

 

I think I've seen another thread on this site with a minor engine problem that prevented the cruise control from working. Just get that sensor replaced and then look into the cruise control. It didn't make sense to those in that thread either.

Will you try my suggestion in post #14?

 

Following the in tank fuel pump replacement under recall, I had a CEL and lost cruise. Got it back after clearing codes, list again when the CEL returned....it's a feature. Good luck, let's us know after replacing the sensor if all is well!

 

Nope, I'm the only owner. Never been serviced by anyone other than the Toyota dealership and outside of recalls, the only things I've had done are normal oil changes and routine service on the transfer case. I have a new coil pack coming Friday so will grab a Pic of the old one when I take it out.

 

Yep, will give that a shot tomorrow. Could be something easy to confirm that sensor is the issue.

 

Brown coil on cylinder No 3 (middle coil/passenger side) is common, particularly for that position. Due to loose spark plug.

This was mine back when I had the ACIS Plenum flap fiasco, loose plug on No 3, etc on my 2018