If your Honda’s check engine light is on and a scan tool shows P1364, you’re likely dealing with an issue tied to ignition timing specifically, the ignition timing sensor circuit. This code isn’t about a failed spark plug or coil; it points to a problem detecting or communicating crankshaft position and timing events. For Honda owners, especially those with 2003–2011 Accords, Civics, or Odysseys with the K-series engine, P1364 often means the car may run rough, stall at idle, or have trouble starting.

What does diagnostic trouble code P1364 mean for Honda vehicles?

P1364 is a manufacturer-specific OBD-II code that stands for “Ignition Timing Sensor Circuit Malfunction” in most Honda models. It’s triggered when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an open or shorted condition in the circuit for the ignition timing sensor sometimes called the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) or, in some contexts, the top-dead-center (TDC) sensor. Unlike generic codes like P0335, P1364 is Honda-specific and appears mostly on vehicles using the K20A, K24A, or similar engines.

When does P1364 show up and what symptoms go with it?

You’ll usually see P1364 after the engine stalls unexpectedly, fails to start, or runs unevenly at low RPMs. Common signs include:

  • Engine cranks but won’t start or starts only after several tries
  • Rough idle, especially when cold
  • Stalling while idling at stoplights
  • No noticeable drivability issues until the code sets (some drivers report no symptoms beyond the light)

It’s not always dramatic. Some Honda owners clear the code and drive for days before it returns especially if the wiring is intermittently failing.

What causes P1364 in Honda cars?

The most common cause is a failing or damaged ignition timing sensor itself but don’t replace it blindly. Wiring issues are just as frequent: cracked insulation near the sensor connector, corrosion in the harness near the timing cover, or a loose ground at the engine block. Less commonly, the PCM may be at fault, but that’s rare and should only be considered after ruling out sensor and wiring problems.

One mistake people make is assuming this is the same as a camshaft position sensor (CMP) fault. It’s not the ignition timing sensor on these Hondas is physically located behind the timing cover, bolted to the cylinder block near the crank pulley. Confusing it with the CMP sensor leads to wasted time and parts.

How to confirm and diagnose P1364 correctly

Start by verifying the code with a reliable scanner not just a basic code reader. Then inspect the sensor’s wiring harness for chafing or heat damage near the exhaust manifold or timing cover. Check resistance across the sensor terminals (typically 700–1,300 ohms at room temperature); values outside that range suggest failure. Also, look for oil contamination: if the sensor’s O-ring has leaked, oil can seep into the connector and cause intermittent faults.

If you're comfortable doing electrical testing, checking reference voltage and signal return at the PCM connector helps isolate whether the issue is in the sensor, harness, or control module. A step-by-step walkthrough for this kind of diagnosis is available in our guide on how to diagnose P1364 ignition timing sensor circuit malfunction.

Does P1364 mean the same thing in other brands?

No. While Toyota Camrys from 2007–2011 use P1364 for a similar timing-related circuit fault, the physical sensor location and wiring layout differ. And in Acura TL models (which share Honda platforms), P1364 points to the same system but may involve slightly different calibration thresholds. If you own an Acura TL, the troubleshooting steps overlap significantly see our repair steps for Acura TL for model-specific notes.

Can I ignore P1364 temporarily?

You can drive short distances if the engine runs smoothly but don’t delay diagnosis. An intermittent P1364 can turn into a no-start condition without warning, especially in hot weather or after extended highway driving. Ignoring it also risks misfires that could damage the catalytic converter over time.

Before replacing anything, double-check the basics: battery voltage (low voltage can mimic sensor faults), engine grounds, and even recent oil changes (overfilling can cause oil to contact the sensor). If you’ve recently worked near the timing cover like replacing the water pump or timing belt recheck all connectors and routing.

For context on how this compares across platforms, you might find it helpful to compare with what P1364 means in Toyota Camry models.

Next step: Scan for pending codes, inspect the ignition timing sensor wiring near the timing cover, and test sensor resistance with a multimeter. If resistance is out of spec or wiring shows damage, replace the sensor and repair the harness. If everything checks out electrically but the code persists, consider checking PCM grounds or consulting a technician familiar with Honda K-series diagnostics.