Last Updated on June 2, 2025
When your vehicle’s OBD2 scanner shows code P0335, it’s pointing to a critical issue with the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP). This sensor plays a vital role in engine performance—it tells the Engine Control Module (ECM) the exact position and speed of the crankshaft. If this data isn’t received, it disrupts fuel injection and ignition timing, making the engine unreliable or even inoperable.
The crankshaft itself is responsible for converting reciprocating motion from the pistons into rotational motion, which drives your vehicle forward. A properly functioning CKP sensor ensures your ECM knows when to ignite the fuel-air mixture and inject fuel into the combustion chamber.
Related Reading:
- Bad Crankshaft Position Sensor Symptoms & Diagnose
- OBD2 Codes List and Meaning
- Car with a Key Symbol on the Dashboard
Causes and Symptoms of Trouble Code P0335
Quick Causes of Code P0335:
- Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Damaged wiring or connectors
- Engine vibration affecting signal stability
- Broken Reluctor ring
- Faulty ECM or PCM
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness
- Worn-out timing belt or broken signal plate
Common Symptoms of Code P0335:
If your car throws code P0335, you might notice one or more of the following symptoms:
Check Engine Light illuminates
Difficulty starting or complete failure to start
Engine stalling during idle or acceleration
Misfiring or rough engine performance
Engine bucking at cruising speeds
Ignoring these signs can lead to more extensive engine damage or make your vehicle inoperable.
Diagnosing Code P0335 Like a Pro (DIY + Advanced)
Diagnosing code P0335 starts with using an OBD2 scanner to read and clear trouble codes. Here’s how both professionals and DIYers approach it:
Step-by-Step Diagnosis:
- Scan with an OBD2 Tool: Use your scanner to identify the fault and collect freeze frame data.
- Clear the Code: Reset the ECM to remove existing codes and take a test drive to see if it returns.
- Check Live RPM Data: If no RPM is shown with the engine running, the CKP sensor or wiring is likely faulty.
- Visual Inspection: Look for broken wires, loose connectors, or corrosion around the CKP sensor and its connectors.
- Check the Reluctor Ring and Timing Belt: A damaged ring or belt can cause sensor misreadings.
- Multimeter Testing: Use a digital multimeter set to low DC voltage to check sensor output and wiring integrity.
- Compare with Service Manual: Confirm readings with manufacturer specs. Mismatches indicate faulty parts.
Common Mistakes in Diagnosis:
- Overlooking loose or corroded connectors
- Ignoring the condition of the Reluctor ring
- Skipping multimeter tests for sensor signals
- Replacing the sensor without checking the timing system
Fixing Code P0335 – Step-by-Step Solutions
Once you’ve pinpointed the issue, follow these practical solutions to fix code P0335:
Quick Solutions:
- Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor: If it’s damaged, swap it out with a new one.
- Repair Wiring and Connectors: Any open, shorted, or corroded wires should be repaired or replaced.
- Check the Timing Belt and Reluctor Ring: A faulty belt or broken ring must be replaced.
- Test the ECM: If all else fails, your Engine Control Module may need professional repair or replacement.
DIY Fixing Tips:
- Remove the CKP sensor and clean the area with a cotton pad.
- Inspect for metal shavings or debris around the sensor.
- Reinstall or replace as necessary.
- Use a multimeter to confirm a 5V square wave signal from the CKP sensor.
- Compare results with your car’s service manual before replacing any part.
After repairs, clear the code again using your scanner and go for a test drive. If the check engine light stays off and the scanner shows no trouble codes, the issue is resolved.
How Serious is Code P0335?
The presence of code P0335 means the engine is either misfiring or not functioning reliably. Continuing to drive without addressing it can lead to:
- Engine failure
- Total shutdown at high speed
- Further damage to the ECM or other sensors
Modern cars may even refuse to start or die shortly after starting if this code is triggered. It’s best to fix the issue immediately.
Cost to Repair Code P0335:
| Component | Estimated Cost (Parts + Labor) |
|---|---|
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | $180 – $250 |
| Timing Belt Replacement | $300 – $400 |
| Timing Chain Repair | $1500 – $2000 |
| ECM/PCM Replacement | $800 – $1100 |
Note: DIY repairs can significantly lower costs, but only if you’re confident in your skills.
When to Call a Mechanic:
If your fix doesn’t clear the error or the car keeps stalling, it’s best to seek professional help. Mechanics have tools like oscilloscopes and advanced scanners that can pinpoint hard-to-find issues.
To elaborate on your article and bring it closer to 2200 words while improving user engagement and SEO value, here are five meaningful expansions that you can include:
Comparison Table: Code P0335 vs. Similar Trouble Codes
| Trouble Code | Description | Key Symptoms | Likely Cause |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0335 | Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit | Hard start, misfires, stalling, no RPM data | Faulty sensor, wiring, ECM issues |
| P0336 | Crankshaft Position Sensor Range/Performance | Inconsistent idle, poor acceleration | Sensor not aligned or failing |
| P0340 | Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction | Car won’t start, misfiring, stalling | Wiring issues, faulty camshaft sensor |
This table will help readers differentiate between codes and lead to more internal link opportunities.
How a Faulty Crankshaft Sensor Impacts Fuel Economy & Emissions
A malfunctioning CKP sensor sends incorrect timing data to the ECM, which leads to:
- Unoptimized fuel injection, increasing fuel consumption.
- Incomplete combustion cycles, creating excess carbon emissions.
- Failed state inspection or smog test due to emission spikes.
These issues tie directly into long-term engine wear and increased costs. Also, include a link to articles like How to Fix P0420 Code for emissions-related content.
Visual Breakdown: How the Crankshaft Sensor Works
Add a labeled diagram showing:
- Crankshaft
- Reluctor ring
- CKP sensor
- ECM connection
Explain how:
- The reluctor ring spins with the crankshaft.
- It passes in front of the CKP sensor.
- The sensor creates a square wave signal.
- The ECM receives this to control ignition timing.
You can embed this in a graphic or an infographic format for higher visual impact.
Final Thoughts on Code P0335
The code P0335 is not just another check engine light—it indicates a direct failure in one of your engine’s most critical sensors. Whether it’s the sensor itself, damaged wiring, or a failed ECM, you should not ignore it. Use a quality scanner, perform a step-by-step inspection, and apply the correct fix.
If you’re unable to resolve the issue after trying all the steps, don’t delay in seeking professional help—solving it early prevents major repair costs later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Code P0335
Q1: What does code P0335 mean on a car?
A: Code P0335 refers to a malfunction in the Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” circuit. This sensor informs the Engine Control Module (ECM) about the crankshaft’s position and speed. When it fails, the ECM can’t properly control fuel injection and ignition timing, leading to starting issues, misfires, or stalling.
Q2: Is it safe to drive with code P0335?
A: It’s not recommended. While your car may start and run, it could stall unexpectedly, misfire, or fail to accelerate correctly. In worst cases, the engine may shut down and refuse to restart. Driving with this code could also damage other engine components over time.
Q3: What causes code P0335 to appear?
A: Common causes include:
-
A faulty crankshaft position sensor
-
Damaged or corroded wiring
-
A broken or misaligned reluctor ring
-
Electrical connection failures
-
A faulty ECM or timing belt issue
Q4: How do I fix code P0335 myself?
A: Start by:
-
Checking and cleaning the CKP sensor and its wiring
-
Testing sensor voltage output with a multimeter
-
Replacing the sensor if no proper signal is detected
-
Inspecting the reluctor ring and timing components
-
Resetting the code using an OBD2 scanner and test driving
Q5: How much does it cost to fix code P0335?
A: Repair costs vary based on the root cause:
-
Crankshaft sensor replacement: $180–$250
-
Timing belt repair: $300–$400
-
ECM replacement: $800–$1100
Fixing it early can prevent these costs from escalating.
Q6: Will replacing the crankshaft sensor fix P0335?
A: Often, yes. If the sensor is the root cause, replacing it usually clears the code. However, if wiring, the ECM, or the timing components are involved, those may also need repair. Always diagnose the full system first.
Q7: Can a dead battery cause code P0335?
A: Rarely. A weak battery might interfere with signal voltage, but it’s not a direct cause. Code P0335 typically relates to mechanical or sensor failures rather than battery issues.