P0344 on Saab: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost

Quick Answer

Not safe to drive

P0344 on a Saab means the engine computer is getting an intermittent signal from the camshaft position sensor on bank 1, or the only sensor on the engine. The computer uses the camshaft signal to know which cylinder is on which stroke, and to control variable valve timing. When the signal comes and goes, the engine can hesitate, stall or start hard, then run normally again.

Severity: Moderate · Ignition
Typical repair cost, all makes: €30-€1400

Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your Saab and Skanyx tells you what P0344 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.

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What does P0344 mean on a Saab?

The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Saab models that log P0344.

Saab 9-5

2010-2012

On the 2.0 litre diesel, Saab defines P0344 as camshaft sensor performance and sets it when the engine computer counts too few camshaft sensor pulses above 50 rpm; it only runs when P0016 is not set. The factory test checks the sensor's low reference, 5 V reference and signal circuits at the connector before the sensor is tested or replaced.

What causes P0344 on a Saab?

Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0344 page, these are the patterns noted for Saab models:

Too few pulses from the camshaft sensor
: Saab 9-5
Open or high resistance in the sensor's reference or signal circuit
: Saab 9-5

How to diagnose P0344 on a Saab with OBD2

Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0344:

Read all codes and freeze-frame data, and check for P0016, P0340, P0341 or crankshaft codes, because a timing or correlation fault changes the diagnosis
Inspect the sensor connector for oil, corrosion, bent or pushed-back pins and a loose lock tab
Inspect the harness for chafing, heat damage and broken strands, and gently wiggle it with the engine running while listening for a stumble. A generic OBD2 reader cannot display the camshaft signal itself; that needs an oscilloscope or manufacturer-level software
Check the sensor tip and mounting for oil, debris and a loose fit
Test supply voltage, ground and signal against the manufacturer specification, ideally with the engine hot
Inspect the camshaft pulse wheel and check cam timing if the sensor and wiring are good
Clear the code and road-test, and confirm it does not return

How much does P0344 cost to fix on a Saab? (EUR)

Estimated repair costs for P0344 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Saab parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.

Repair	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Total Estimate	DIY Difficulty
Workshop diagnosis of an intermittent fault	€0–€0	€30–€80	€30–€80	Professional
Replace camshaft position sensor	€20–€80	€30–€120	€50–€200	Moderate
Repair wiring or connector to sensor	€10–€50	€50–€150	€60–€200	Moderate
Replace cam cover gasket and clean the sensor connector (oil contamination)	€60–€200	€100–€350	€160–€550	Moderate
Replace timing chain and tensioner	€100–€400	€300–€1000	€400–€1400	Professional

Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.

These codes are often seen alongside P0344 or point to related issues, on any make:

Looking for the full P0344 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)? See the main P0344 guide

Diagnose P0344 on your Saab

Your car logged P0344. Skanyx reads it on a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone), tells you whether it is safe to keep driving, and shows the €30-€1400 repair range so you know the number before a shop quotes you. Free on iPhone and Android, and you do not need to be a mechanic to read it.