P0390 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Fix

Overview

Symptoms

• engine noise or unstable timing
• loss of power at mid/high RPM
• hard start when cold

Common causes

• Disconnected or loose connector affecting camshaft position sensor b circuit (bank 2)
• Open circuit in wiring
• Connector pin damage/corrosion or harness stress near related components

How to diagnose P0390

1. Confirm P0390 and capture freeze-frame data with a professional scan tool.
2. Inspect wiring, connectors, and grounds related to camshaft position sensor b circuit (bank 2) for obvious defects.
3. Use a continuity test from module pin to component to identify opens/high resistance.
4. Check for related DTCs to identify the root-cause chain before replacing parts.
5. After repair, clear codes and confirm readiness monitors complete without recurrence.

Severity of code P0390

Moderate: This code is moderate severity: the vehicle may still operate, but fault progression can increase repair cost over time.

Can you drive with P0390?

Most vehicles can be driven short-term with P0390, but postpone heavy load/highway driving until repaired.

If the warning lamp is flashing or drivability/safety is affected, avoid driving and diagnose immediately.

How to fix it (step-by-step)

1. Repair obvious wiring/connector faults first to prevent repeat parts replacement.
2. Address the root fault mode (open) in the camshaft position sensor b circuit (bank 2) circuit/system.
3. Apply the required relearn/adaptation procedure if specified by service information.
4. Road-test and verify P0390 remains cleared under the conditions that originally set the code.

Fix options

• Clear corrosion and protect terminals.
• Restore continuity and verify pin tension.
• Clear DTCs and verify with live data and completed drive cycle.

Typical repair cost

$300-$1400

Common mistakes when diagnosing P0390

• Replacing parts without verifying voltage, ground, and signal integrity first.
• Ignoring related stored/pending codes that indicate upstream faults.
• Skipping post-repair verification drive cycle and readiness checks.

P0390 in common vehicles

P0390 appears across makes such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo. Failure patterns differ by platform: wiring routes, software calibration, and component supplier revisions can change root cause.

Frequently asked questions

What causes P0390?

P0390 is commonly set by open faults affecting camshaft position sensor b circuit (bank 2).

How much does it cost to fix P0390?

For P0390, repair costs are typically $300-$1400 depending on exact root cause, labor rates, and part quality.

Can I clear P0390 without repair?

You can clear P0390 temporarily, but the code usually returns until the underlying fault is corrected.

Helpful tools

• Estimate repair cost
• Decode your VIN
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