What does it mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.
The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) measures the location of the crankshaft and transmits this information to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
Depending on the vehicle, the PCM uses this crankshaft position information to properly time the spark, or on some systems, it is only for misfire detection and does not control spark timing. The CKP sensor is fixed and works in harmony with a reluctor ring (or toothed ring) that is attached to the crankshaft. When this reluctor ring passes in front of the CKP sensor, the magnetic field created by the CKP sensor is interrupted, creating a square wave voltage signal that the PCM interprets as the crankshaft position. If the PCM detects that there are no crankshaft pulses or sees a problem with the pulses on the output circuit, P0335 will be set.
Crankshaft Position Sensor Trouble Codes:
- P0336 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
- P0337 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
- P0338 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input
- P0339 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
Symptoms
NOTE: If the crankshaft position sensor is used only for misfire detection and NOT for spark timing (this varies by vehicle), the vehicle should start and run with an illuminated MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp). Additionally, some vehicles require multiple key cycles to illuminate the MIL. If this is the case, there may be no MIL illumination until the issue becomes frequent over time. If the crankshaft position sensor is used for both misfire detection and spark timing, the vehicle may or may not start.
Symptoms may include:
- Vehicle may not start
- Vehicle may run roughly or misfire
- MIL illumination
Causes
A P0335 check engine code could be caused by:
- Damaged CKP sensor connector
- Damaged reluctor ring (missing teeth or not rotating due to a sheared keyway)
- Open sensor output
- Sensor output shorted to ground
- Sensor output shorted to voltage
- Faulty crankshaft position sensor
- Broken timing belt
- Failed PCM
Possible Solutions
Using a scan tool, check if there is an RPM signal when the engine is cranking or running.
If there is no RPM reading, visually inspect the crankshaft sensor and connector for any damage and repair if necessary. If there is no visible damage and you have access to an oscilloscope, you can check the CKP’s 5-volt square wave pattern. If you don’t, obtain a resistance reading for your crankshaft sensor from a repair manual. (There are so many different types of crankshaft sensors that there is no way to indicate here what resistance value is correct). Then check the CKP sensor resistance by disconnecting the sensor and measuring the sensor’s resistance. (It is better to check resistance readings from the PCM connector. This rules out any wiring issues from the start. But this requires mechanical skills and should not be performed if you are not familiar with automotive electrical systems). Does the sensor meet resistance specifications?
If not, replace the CKP sensor. If it does, recheck the resistance reading from the PCM connector. Is the reading still correct?
If not, repair the open or shorted crankshaft sensor wiring and recheck. If the reading is correct, the problem is intermittent or the PCM may be at fault. Try reconnecting and checking the RPM signal again. If there is now an RPM signal, test the wiring harness to try to induce the fault.
This code is basically identical to P0385. This P0335 code refers to the “A” crankshaft position sensor, while P0385 refers to the “B” crankshaft position sensor. Other crankshaft sensor codes include P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0335, P0336, P0337, P0338, P0339, P0385, P0386, P0387, P0388, and P0389.