I have a CEL with engine code P1345. When I tried to start the van today it hesitated as if battery was dying, but then it started fine. I read that perhaps the Crank Angle Sensor is faulty ? On another car ( E320 ) starting hesitation after the car has warmed up is a sure sign of a bad Crank Position Sensor. I get the problem when the van is not warmed up. Three questions:

1. Does this problem sounds like a Crank Angle Sensor gone bad ?
2. On an MPV MY 1996, where would I find the Crank Angle Sensor and is it hard to replace.
3. Is there something else I should do to make sure its a Crank sensor issue?
4. What other issues can cause this kind of a problem ?

TIA for your help.

 

READ THIS: http://repairpal.com/mazda/mpv

 

It is a Cam Pos Sensor Fault code.

 

Thanks for the comprehensive answer. I will use this as a basis of diagnosing and fixing the problem. The issue is intermittent but its accompanied by almost a failure to start -- almost like the battery is dead.

 

Does anybody have a pictorial DIY on changing the CMP ? Is the CMP behind the passenger wheel ?
I think the battery is OK, but not sure. Should I just change the battery and see if the problem goes away ? The OBD II info says that its the CMP sensor.

 

This is an old thread. I realize that I have learnt a lot since posting my question !
Is there an easy way to tell if the P1345 is really caused by the CPS ? In other words can the output of the CPS sensor be verified through the connector wiring ?

( I have the same problem again on this vehicle )