DTC P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction

What is P0335?

The code P0335 is defined as a “Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit Malfunction.”

The engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) logs diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0335 when it can’t confirm the crankshaft’s position.

Here’s what happens:

The crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor) monitors the crankshaft’s exact position and rotational speed (or RPM signal). Depending on whether you have a variable reluctor or Hall-effect sensor, it creates either a wave-shaped AC signal or an on/off digital voltage signal. The engine control unit (ECU) reads this voltage signal to interpret the crankshaft’s position. 

Consequently, your ECM uses this information to regulate the fuel delivery and ignition timing, ensuring proper combustion of the air-fuel mixture. 

However, if the CKP sensor can’t send the correct signals to the ECM, it turns on the check engine light and logs the P0335 trouble code. 

Apart from this, other engine codes that may activate include:

• P0336: Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit Range
• P0337: Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Low Circuit Input
• P0338: Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ High Circuit Input
• P0339: Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Intermittent Circuit

What Causes the Code P0335?

Here are a few potential reasons your vehicle’s computer will register the code: 

1. Faulty crankshaft position sensor — most common issue
2. Damaged sensor wiring harness
3. Sensor circuit failure or loose CKP sensor connector 
4. Broken timing belt or chain 
5. Torn harmonic balancer (a circular rubber component that dampens vibrations to protect the crankshaft)
6. Damaged reluctor ring 
7. Broken crankshaft
8. Malfunctioning PCM or ECU

NOTE: P0335 code tends to appear more frequently in certain models from brands like Toyota, Nissan, Audi, and Dodge. In many models from these brands, the CKP sensor may be mounted in vulnerable or heat-prone areas, which can result in premature failure. If you own a vehicle from one of these brands, it’s best to stay alert for early signs of a faulty sensor. 

6 Warning Symptoms of P0335 Error Code

When the ECM fails to identify the crankshaft’s position, it activates the code and has difficulty controlling fuel delivery and ignition timing. This can lead to:

1. Difficulty starting the engine
2. Engine stalling, rough idling, or misfiring
3. Hesitation or poor acceleration
4. Sudden jerking when driving at a steady speed
5. An illuminated check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp
6. Decreased fuel economy

Can You Still Drive with the P0335 Trouble Code?

No, you shouldn’t. 

If your car’s ECM registers the DTC P0335, you most likely have a crank sensor failure or a bad reluctor ring. These can cause severe problems, such as engine stalling and misfiring. Driving with any of these problems, such as a misfire, is out of question until necessary repairs are complete. 

If the issue remains unresolved, it could lead to extensive engine damage and costly repairs.

How to Diagnose P0335 Error Code: A General Know-How

Diagnosing P0335 includes inspecting the CKP sensor and timing belt, which can be challenging for inexperienced people and may lead to common mistakes. For smooth troubleshooting, contact your local dealership or mechanic for help. 

Here’s how they’ll determine the cause of code P0335: 

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to identify other trouble codes, such as P0336 or P0017. Sometimes, simultaneous crankshaft and camshaft sensor issues can trigger additional codes related to engine timing. They’ll also check the freeze frame data stored in the ECM.

2. Turn the ignition switch on and crank the engine. Then, use a scan tool to check for an RPM signal while cranking. The reading should typically be between 100 and 500 RPM.

3. Look for a loose connector or corroded wire around the crank position sensor. Poor connection or corrosion on wires can cause the ECM to activate the P0335 code.

4. Inspect the crankshaft for cracks. If damaged, the CKP sensor can’t gauge the crankshaft’s precise position, sending inaccurate signals to the ECM.

5. Check the reluctor ring for missing teeth. If the reluctor ring is deformed, it can prevent the sensor from determining the crankshaft’s position.

6. Ensure the timing chain and belt aren’t torn or misaligned, as this can disrupt engine timing and trigger the error code.

7. Check the harmonic balancer for tears or cracks. An ill-fitting component can make it difficult for the sensor to determine the crankshaft’s position and trigger the DTC.

8. Test the crank sensor to check whether it’s working. The steps for different sensors may vary. For example, if your vehicle has:
   • Hall effect sensor: Connect the multimeter’s leads to the appropriate power and ground pins, then set it to voltage mode. Typically, they’ll attach the red lead to the sensor‘s power supply pin and the black lead to the ground pin. The multimeter should show accurate readings between 5 and 13 volts.

   • Variable reluctance sensor: Disconnect the battery, set the multimeter to ohms, and measure the sensor’s resistance. The reading should be around 200 to 2,000 ohms. If the reading isn’t as per the owner’s manual, you may need a sensor replacement.

9. Use a multimeter to verify whether the ECM sends or receives accurate readings to and from the sensor.

What Are the Possible Repairs & Costs for Fixing DTC P0335

Once the mechanic identifies the culprit, they’ll:

• Replace the faulty crankshaft position sensor
• Clean the corrosion or fix the sensor’s wiring problem
• Swap out the damaged reluctor ring
• Switch the broken timing belt and chain with a new one
• Replace the harmonic balancer 
• Change the crankshaft
• Repair or update the ECM 

Here’s what you’ll likely spend on changing the faulty sensor and other fixes (including labor charges): 

• Wiring issue repair: $100 to $1,500
• Crankshaft position sensor replacement: $200 to $400
• Harmonic balancer replacement: $420 to $470
• Timing belt replacement: $400 to $1,100
• Crankshaft replacement: $400 to $3,000
• Engine control module replacement: $700 to $2,000
• Timing chain replacement: $1,600 to $1,950
• Reluctor ring replacement: $1,800 to $2,800

After the repairs, the technician will clear the existing codes using a scan tool and test drive the vehicle to ensure they don’t return.