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P1327 — Ignition phase detect malfunction

Detailed page for trouble code P1327.

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Code

P1327

DS P — Powertrain

Ignition phase detect malfunction

Brand: DS
Views: UK: 4 EN: 2 RU: 3
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty camshaft position sensor (phase sensor) or crankshaft position sensor
  • Damaged or corroded sensor connector, wiring short or open, or poor ground
  • Incorrect cam/crank timing from a slipped/ stretched timing belt or chain, or misinstalled timing components
  • Reluctor ring (tone wheel) damage, missing teeth, or debris
  • Weak battery or poor supply/ reference voltage to sensors
  • Faulty ignition module or ECU/PCM internal fault or software error

Symptoms

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Hard starting or no-start condition
  • Rough idle, frequent misfires or stumbling under load
  • Reduced engine power, hesitation or poor drivability
  • Possible intermittent stalls or loss of spark
  • Diagnostic trouble codes for cam/crank correlation or sensor circuits stored

What to check

  • Read stored and pending codes and freeze-frame data with a capable scan tool
  • Check for related codes (cam/crank sensor, correlation, misfire codes)
  • Inspect battery voltage and charging system (low voltage can affect sensors)
  • Visually inspect cam and crank sensor connectors, wiring harness and grounds for corrosion, damage or looseness
  • Inspect timing belt/chain condition, tensioner, and timing marks for correct alignment
  • Perform live-data or oscilloscope capture of camshaft and crankshaft sensor waveforms during cranking and idle

Signal parameters

  • Camshaft position (phase) sensor: expected digital square-wave or sine pattern synchronized to cam rotation (typical 0–5 V Hall output or 0.5–4.5 V variable reluctor waveform)
  • Crankshaft position sensor: higher frequency pulses corresponding to crank teeth (0–5 V Hall or variable reluctor amplitude dependent on sensor type)
  • Phase relationship: cam signal should align with crank pulses at predictable crank angles (cam signal frequency typically half engine speed for four-stroke engines)
  • During cranking: clean consistent pulses without dropped or distorted edges; voltage levels should follow sensor type specifications
  • Reference voltage: many sensors use a stable 5 V or switched 12 V reference—check for proper supply and stable ground

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Verify P1327 is current or pending and note freeze-frame (engine speed, temperature). Check for additional codes (e.g., P0340, P0335, P0016).
  2. Inspect battery and charging. Ensure supply voltage >11.5 V during cranking and stable at idle.
  3. Visually inspect connectors, pins and wiring to camshaft and crankshaft sensors. Repair any damaged wiring or corroded connectors.
  4. Using a scan tool, view live cam and crank sensor signals. If available use an oscilloscope to capture waveforms simultaneously; look for missing pulses, noise, irregular amplitude or timing shifts.
  5. If waveforms are noisy or missing, swap or bench-test the suspect sensor (if spares available) or replace sensor and retest.
  6. If sensors appear good, verify mechanical timing: remove covers as required and confirm cam and crank timing marks line up per factory procedure. Repair timing belt/chain, tensioner or guides if slipped or stretched.
  7. Inspect reluctor rings/ toothed wheels for damage, missing teeth, or metal shavings; replace as necessary.
  8. After repairs, clear codes, perform a cranking/run test and test drive to confirm code does not return and drivability is restored.
  9. If fault persists with correct sensor signals and mechanical timing, consider ECU/ignition module diagnosis or software update per manufacturer procedures.

Likely causes

  • Intermittent/poor electrical connection at camshaft position (phase) sensor
  • Failed camshaft position sensor
  • Timing chain/belt slip or incorrect cam/crank alignment
  • Damaged tone wheel or missing tooth on crank/cam reluctor
  • Crankshaft position sensor fault

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Ignition phase detect malfunction — cam/crank sync error. Check cam/crank sensors and timing.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-3 hours
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