Good morning and happy Friday.

My 2005 F150 recently had a check engine light. After running the scanner, I've found the issue, but I've been unable to fix it. It runs they way it always has, but that light will keep me from getting my inspection renewed (due next month). After extensive research, I've found problems with the same code ranging from simple wiring issue, to bad camshaft components requiring a total rebuild. Unfortunately, most of those posting the same problem never followed up and informed what was the issue.

Usually, I can and have fixed things myself, but this one has me at a loss and I had to take to the only mechanic I trust.

I'm worried it may be something big where the repair will be way over than I can afford.

If so, I'm going to have to consider getting another used truck.

What is a good used truck to look for?
I want something that will LAST for several years, not one that'll have all sorts of recalls or repeating issues.


I drive about 250 miles a week on average. Pull trailers on occasion and load equipment from work.
I'd prefer a V8, but will consider a V6 if it still gives enough power to pull 4500lb trailer at highway speeds.


**Before y'all bash me on the fact I have a 2005 Ford F-150 V8 5.4L, it has nearly 220k miles and I've pulled everything without issue, even broken down Silverados and Rams. Yes, I read all the complaints about it, but often those folks don't know theres a thing called periodic maintenance.

You can get it inspected...it just might cost you and extra $20.

Texas Motorcars. Period. Good luck.

At 250,000 miles, it's about time for a new one anyway.
Check what Spags has at TMC. He does shipping. So getting it to Katy wouldn't be a problem for Brian.

I may be wrong here, but isn't there a limit on the cost of a repair that would keep you from getting it inspected? As in if it would cost you more than $1,000 to fix it they will allow it to pass without it being repaired?

Those 5.4 motors have serious cam phaser issues. I honestly would look for a 2006 5.3 Chevy or older. Maybe a Dodge with a hemi. If you can afford a 5.0 in a newer ford, do that too. I bet Spagnola has the 411 on all this stuff.

What code is it throwing?

P0345 and P0349

Toyota Tundra was built for folks like you. Don't drive much, but need power and reliability. Problem is they cost a fortune and when something does break down, it can be expensive to fix.

I'd try to get the Ford repaired if it was me.

If so, that's a terrible law. Either it's too dangerous to drive on the road or it isn't. Cost of the repair shouldn't factor in at all.

https://www.obd-codes.com/p0345

Symptoms Symptoms can include: Hard starting or no start Rough running / misfiring Loss of engine power Causes A code P0345 could mean one or more of the following has happened: a wire or connector in the circuit could be grounded/shorted/broken the camshaft position sensor may have failed the PCM may have failed there exists an open circuit the crankshaft position sensor may have failed Possible Solutions With a P0345 OBD-II trouble code, diagnosis can be tricky at times. Here are some things to try: Visually inspect all the wiring and connectors in the circuit Check for continuity in the circuit wiring Check the operation (voltage) of the camshaft position sensor Replace the camshaft position sensor as required Check the crankshaft position circuit as well Replace circuit wiring and/or connectors as required Diagnose/replace the PCM as required



gonna have to read this one.

https://www.obd-codes.com/p0349

Yup, I was thinking its an electronic issue.
Didn't see any opens or shorts, But I don't have a detailed wiring diagram to tell me proper voltages and pins on the harnesses. So rather than play in the dark, I took it to someone who knows.

I don't have problems starting or accelerating.
It hasn't died on me, thank God.

If you're looking for a truck that is only a couple of years old, you'll probably be better off just buying new. There are deals to be made at the end of the year on new models and the pre-owned trucks available in the last 2 or so model years are not much cheaper, if at all.

Well, I just got the call back.

The whole PCM needs to be replaced.
It's no longer taking the pulses from the cam sensors.
Sensors and timing solenoids are running fine.

Is there a way to program a PCM myself?

Ive removed the PCM few times before when I was swapping out COPs and spark plugs.
So it's easy to put it in.