P3168 BMW Fault Code

Description:

The Camshaft Position sensor will signal the Engine Control Module when the #1 cylinder is ready for the spark plug to fire (top-dead-center on compression stroke).

The ECM uses the information from this sensor to help calculate fuel delivery and spark timing.

P3168 Code Symptoms :

When you turn on the ignition, the Service Engine Soon or Check Engine P3168 light should flash briefly, indicating that the OBD system is ready to scan your vehicle for any malfunctions. After this brief flash, the light should stay off while you drive as long as no problems are detected. If so, you'll be glad to know that your vehicle is equipped with an early warning system that could save you time, money, and fuel in addition to helping protect the P3168!

Diagnosis And Repairing P3168

P3168 OBD2 reports a sensor fault, replacement of the sensor is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem. The fault is most likely to be caused by the systems that the sensor is monitoring, but might even be caused by the wiring to the sensor itself.

How to fix P3168 code ?

• Exhaust gas leaks
• EVAP canister or fuel tank leaks
• Faulty select solenoid
• Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close

As long as the throttle plate remains closed, the idling speed and quality is controlled by the PCM via the idle control valve, and as can be seen from the above it should be clear that idle control on a gasoline engine is a complex affair.

For instance, if the engine is started in sub-zero temperatures, the PCM will command the idling control valve to allow less air to enter the engine to enrich the air/fuel mixture to create a condition which is roughly analogous to how chokes worked on carburetted engines to control idling in cold weather.