P0372: The crankshaft or camshaft timing signal shows fewer pulses than the computer expects
Timing reference high resolution signal A too few pulses
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
The sources read give no severity guidance for this code. A timing or coil circuit fault can cause misfires or hard starting, so have it checked.
It gets more serious if:
- Inspect soon: Inspect soon if the engine misfires hard, the check engine light flashes, or the engine stalls or will not start.
P0372 in short
P0372 means the timing reference signal shows too few pulses, so the computer is not getting enough from the crankshaft or camshaft sensor to control timing. Wiring, a crank or cam sensor, or rarely the engine computer are the listed causes.
The generic title is "Timing reference high resolution signal A too few pulses". TroubleCodes.net says the computer is not receiving enough signal pulses from the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor, which prevents proper timing control.
The page lists wiring issues, a CKP, RPM or CMP sensor fault, and engine computer problems as probable causes. It says its detailed guide for this code is not yet published, so this page is brief.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Wiring or connector problem
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- Listed first; check sensor wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.
- What would change this
- Rises if damage is found. Falls if the harness tests good.
Cause 2: Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor fault
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- The page lists the CKP, RPM or CMP sensor as the next thing to test.
- What would change this
- Rises if sensor output is weak or missing. Falls if normal.
Cause 3: Engine computer problem
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- Considered only after the sensors and wiring check out.
- What would change this
- Rises only after wiring and sensors are cleared.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Inspect the harness and connector between the sensor and the computer for damage or corrosion.
IfDamage or corrosion is seen
It meansRepair the wiring.
IfWiring looks fine
It meansHave the sensor signal tested.
Step 2: Have the sensor's reference voltage, ground and output checked while the engine cranks, and the reluctor ring inspected if reachable.
Warning:The sensor sits near the belt, flywheel or engine mounts; cranking with tools or hands nearby risks injury, and probing the wrong pin can damage the computer.
IfOutput is missing or weak
It meansThe sensor is suspect.
IfSensor and wiring are good
It meansThe engine computer needs professional evaluation.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Hard starting, stalling or poor running
Compare with: Check engine light with loss of power, Rough idle with the check engine light on
How to fix
Step 1: Have the sensor wiring and connector checked for damage or corrosion.
Parts and cost context
- Crankshaft position sensor:Test before replacing; prices and labour vary, so get a quote.
Labor varies by vehicle and shop; get a quote before you approve a repair.
Compare used part prices on PartPriceGuideOn your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for P0372 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
No curated relationships for P0372 yet.
Sources and review
- TroubleCodes.net generic code pages for P0361, P0362, P0370, P0371, P0372
- On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Codes (generic code title list)
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error