fju2112

Hi -

Just had a timing belt/water pump/90K service done. Driving the car back, the CEL came on. I ran the code w/ my code reader, it's code P1346. didn't find anything on the boards here. Any ideas?

Here's what I've found online:

http://toyota.justanswer.com/questio...ode-p1346-mean

"The trouble code is described in the repair manual as a problem with the V V T(variable valve timing) bank 1, this is the cylinder head closest to the firewall. There is a deviation between the crank position sensor and the vvt sensor on the camshaft, I would suggest rechecking the belt timing again, especially on the bank 1 side, make sure that all the electrical connectors are plugged in for the cam and crank sensors."

Similar engine (2000 Rx300)

Sound right to you guys? I'm thinking I'll have to bring it back in but they better not charge me a dime if they have to "recheck the timing belt" as that will involve a lot more work...

Lexmex

Most of the time when I have seen this with RX300s, it has occurred just after timing belt install. It really needs to be handled carefully as it is one of the more sensitive vehicles (1MZFE engine) and it is likely just out of whack by maybe one tooth. I'd have them recheck the installation.

fju2112

thanks for the response lex...have an email out to them and am awaiting response!

fju2112

they are going to take a look at the car Friday, which is the only time that will work for us soon anyway. if it is a timing issue and this is not a non-interference engine, couldn't there be HUGE problems if my wife continues to drive this car to work and back, if it is in fact a timing issue?

Lexmex

The ECM (vehicle computer) controls the situation here and will adjust things accordingly. There are a few other errors that are similar where this will occur. Another possibility here is a stretched or incorrect belt. A rare instance is also if any type of oil or other substance got on the timing belt, causing it to skip.

Despite all the mechanical stuff/maintenance I do with my RX, I actually wouldn't do the timing belt by myself but leave it to a true expert. To me, it's akin to tuning a piano or other instrument you have to get just right.

fju2112

Understood, thanks again. Just to be clear I know they used OEM parts and they are very talented mechanics. This is actually the only time I've had any issue w/ their work when picking up the car.

They just better not charge me a red cent if they have to take everything apart again and make sure the timing is right

Lexmex

I had this work done at Lexus about 4 years ago and they did a perfect job. Despite all of the modifications to my RX, I haven't had this code or anything like it. Almost every time it comes about due to something related to the installation, but these vehicles are very picky.

JSM1284

P1346


CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
VVT sensor (VV signal) consists of a magnet, iron core and pickup coil.
The VV signal plate has 3 teeth on its outer circumference and is installed the camshaft timing gear. When the camshafts rotate, the protrusion on the signal plate and the air gap on the pickup coil change, causing fluctuations in the magnetic field and generating an electromotive force in the pickup coil.
The actual camshaft angle is detected by the VVT sensor and it provides feedback to the ECM to control the intake valve timing in response to during condition.




DETECTING CONDITIONS


WIRING DIAGRAM



INSPECTION PROCEDURE

HINT: Read freeze frame data using LEXUS hand-held tester or OBD II scan tool. Because freeze frame records the engine conditions when the malfunction is detected. When troubleshooting, it is useful for determining whether the vehicle was running or stopped, the engine was warmed up or not, the air-fuel ratio was lean or rich, etc. at the time of the malfunction.

fju2112

Thanks for the info JDM!

I have an OBDII code reader but it's pretty basic. I'll have to figure out how to run diagnostics beyond pulling the one code.

They just did the timing belt change so I have to imagine this has something to do with the work they did (or, in this case, failed to do part of it right when putting things back together).

fju2112

The car's going into the shop tomorrow (again). These people have been good about owning up to mistakes, but I want to be armed with info in case they try to charge me anything or say the problem didn't have to do with the timing belt installation. Lexmex, others, any specific info I can use to back up my theory that this had to do with their work in case I get charged?

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

Lexmex is the expert, but I had an identical situation with my timing belt. It was off one tooth and the guy that did it had to redo it at no charge. Fortunately, he admitted his mistake. All is well after he moved it one tooth.