P0376
Timing Reference High Resolution Signal B Too Many Pulses
Ignition / timing reference
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0376 sets when the computer counts more pulses than expected in the high-resolution timing reference signal B — the fine crank/cam signal used to time spark and fuel. The extra pulses make timing unreliable, so the engine can misfire, run rough, or stall. It usually points to a failing timing sensor, a damaged reluctor wheel, or noisy wiring.
High
Can I keep driving? The engine may misfire, run rough, or stall because timing reference is unreliable; drive as little as possible until it's fixed.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Engine misfires or runs rough
- Hesitation, surging, or possible stalling
- Reduced power
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty timing reference / high-resolution sensor (optical or magnetic)Likely
- Faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensor feeding the timing signalCommon
- Damaged crank/cam reluctor rings or tone wheelsCommon
- Open, shorted, or noisy wiring picking up extra pulsesLess often
- Failed engine control module (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and confirm the high-resolution timing signal B is at fault.
- Inspect the sensor connector and wiring, looking for chafing or noise sources that add false pulses.
- Check the crank and cam sensor signals for correlation with a scan tool or scope.
- Inspect the reluctor/tone wheels for damage or debris.
- Replace the timing reference sensor if it produces erratic pulses with good wiring. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0376?+
Not for long — an unreliable timing reference can make the engine misfire or stall, and a sustained misfire can harm the catalytic converter.
Can I just clear P0376?+
It will clear, but the erratic signal returns until the sensor, reluctor, or wiring is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0376
Read & clear P0376 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX