What Does This Mean?

The generic diagnostic code P0315 is related to the powertrain and applies to fuel-injected engines from most manufacturers since 2003.

This code concerns the relationship between the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) and the engine control module (ECM/PCM). The PCM compares the crankshaft position measurements to an ideal reference. If the variation exceeds a certain threshold, an error code is recorded. This issue can be electrical or mechanical in origin.

Affected Manufacturers:

• Dodge, Chrysler, Ford, Jeep, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Kia, Isuzu, Hyundai, etc.

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Symptoms

An engine code P0315 can cause:

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated
• Misfires, engine hesitation, or RPM fluctuations
• Engine stalling with possible restart
• Difficulty starting after the engine is turned off
• Engine starts but does not maintain idle

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Possible Causes

The most common causes of code P0315 are:

1. Crankshaft position relearn not performed or incorrectly executed (most common cause)
2. Wear in timing components (chain, gears, distributor, flex plate)
3. Faulty crankshaft position sensor
4. Issue in the CPS sensor electrical circuit
   • Open power or ground circuit
   • Faulty signal circuit between the CPS sensor and PCM
5. PCM failure (rare)

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Diagnostic and Repair Steps

1. Check Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

Consult technical service bulletins specific to your vehicle. Some models may have known issues with available fixes.

2. Reading and Clearing Error Codes

• Use a diagnostic tool to retrieve all stored codes.
• Clear the codes and restart the engine.
• If the code does not return, it was likely a temporary issue.
• If the code reappears immediately or during a road test, continue diagnostics.

3. Inspect CPS Sensor and Wiring

• Locate the CPS sensor and inspect the connector and wiring.
• Look for signs of damage: exposed wires, burns, corrosion.
• Clean the connectors with electrical contact cleaner.

4. Checking the CPS Sensor

• Remove the sensor and inspect its tip for any damage.
• If the sensor is damaged, replace it with an original equipment (OEM) part.
• Check inside the sensor housing and examine the tone wheel for cracks or damaged teeth.

5. Testing the Timing System

• Manually rotate the engine and observe play in the timing chain.
• If irregularities are found, consider replacing worn components.

6. CPS Sensor Relearn

• Some diagnostic tools allow performing a CPS sensor relearn.
• Before this procedure, ensure all error codes have been cleared.

7. Last Resort: Consult a Professional

If the problem persists despite these checks, it is advisable to consult a qualified technician.

What Does It Mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to vehicles equipped with OBD-II. Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.

This P0316 code means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detected an engine misfire shortly after startup, specifically within the first 1000 revolutions.

This code may also be triggered along with another misfire code such as P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, P0308, P0309, P0310, P0311, P0312. If you also have another misfire DTC, you should first diagnose and repair that code or codes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0316 DTC may include:

MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
Rough engine starting or idling

Potential Causes

Causes

potential causes of this misfire code may include:

Damaged or faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
Faulty CKP sensor wiring or connector
Poor fuel quality
Fuel starvation
Ignition system malfunction
Fuel system malfunction: injector or fuel pump
Mechanical engine problem
Damaged PCM

Possible Solutions

First, you’ll want to repair any other misfire DTCs if present before diagnosing this code. If you own a Ford vehicle and have a P0316 with any of the other misfire codes, you should check the appropriate TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins), as some TSBs involve PCM reprogramming as part of the fix. Performing this requires specialized equipment. Some Ford vehicles even needed a new cylinder head due to valve issues. Regardless, if you have a Ford with multiple misfire codes including this one, check the TSBs.

If P0316 is the only code, then it’s time to do some further diagnosis of the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, and their associated connectors and wiring. One tip we’ve found is “Since this code indicates a startup misfire, pay attention to components that may expand or contract when cold (if the code sets when the engine is cold), or hot (if the code sets on restart).”

Realistically, the PCM’s freeze frame data will be helpful in pinpointing the issue. As will a good DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm Meter), so you can perform tests on the wiring and sensors.

What does it mean?

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This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles (VW, Ford, Audi, Buick, GM, etc.). Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.

A P0317 fault code belongs to the category of codes that includes ignition system codes. The reason is that often “rough road hardware” is actually an interpretation of sensors that have essentially detected the engine’s crankshaft moving unexpectedly.

 

The vehicle’s sensor system and PCM, or Powertrain Control Module, can indicate rough road conditions. For example, engine RPM may be irregular when the vehicle is driven on very rough roads or off-road. This can cause the PCM to interpret it as an engine failure such as a misfire.

Some vehicles may have a road sensor, an accelerometer, or some may use an ABS wheel sensor and the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) to help determine rough road conditions.

Regardless of the exact system used in your vehicle, if you get this fault code, it means the PCM has detected a rough road condition that requires attention. Typically, this code is only set when the readings are identical after multiple readings.

Symptoms

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Most fault codes trigger the Check Engine light (or Malfunction Indicator Lamp MIL). For this P0317 DTC, the light is not illuminated. However, you may have other warning lights on (traction control, ABS, etc.) or even experience engine misfires or rough operation.

Causes

Possible causes for setting this code are:

    Faulty rough road sensor (if equipped)
    Wiring/electrical fault related to sensors
    Control unit needs to initialize the new road sensor
    Other possible causes

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

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A good first step is to check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that may apply to your year/make/model. If the issue is known, there may be a bulletin providing specific diagnostic and repair assistance for your exact problem. This can save you time and money.

You should obtain a vehicle-specific repair guide to help determine the exact type of rough road detection system used by your vehicle.

If you have other misfire, ABS, or related codes, you should generally address those before proceeding to repair a P0317. Nevertheless, save all freeze frame data, as it can be useful in any diagnostics.

If your vehicle has an accelerometer sensor, check the sensor’s condition, wiring, and connectors for any issues. Repair as needed. Then, use a digital volt ohmmeter (DVOM) to check continuity, resistance, and other electrical aspects according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

If possible, use an advanced scan tool to drive the vehicle on rough roads and monitor sensor readings from the appropriate vehicle sensors to determine if you can replicate the problem, helping to pinpoint where the issue lies.

What does it mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles (VW, Ford, Audi, Buick, GM, etc.). Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.

A P0318 fault code belongs to the category of codes that includes ignition system codes. The reason is that sometimes “rough road conditions” are actually an interpretation from sensors that have essentially detected the engine’s crankshaft moving unexpectedly.

The vehicle’s sensor system and PCM, or Powertrain Control Module, may indicate rough road conditions. For example, engine speed may be irregular when the vehicle is driven on very rough or off-road surfaces. This can cause the PCM to interpret it as an engine malfunction such as a misfire.

Some vehicles may have a road sensor, an accelerometer, or some may use an ABS wheel sensor and the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) to help determine difficult road conditions.

Regardless of the exact system used in your vehicle, if you get this fault code, it means the PCM has detected a rough road condition that requires attention. Typically, this code is only set when the readings are identical after multiple drive cycles. This code refers to the electrical circuit of the Rough Road Sensor A.

Symptoms

Most fault codes trigger the Check Engine light (or Malfunction Indicator Lamp MIL). For this P0318 DTC, the light is not illuminated. However, you may have other warning lights on (traction control, ABS, etc.) or even experience engine misfires or rough operation.

Causes

Possible causes for setting this code include:

    Faulty rough road sensor (if applicable)
    Wiring/electrical fault related to sensors
    The control unit needs to initialize the new road sensor
    Other possible causes

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good first step is to check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that may apply to your vehicle’s year/make/model. If the issue is known, there may be a specific bulletin to assist with diagnosing and repairing your exact problem. This can save you time and money.

You should obtain a vehicle-specific repair guide to help determine the exact type of rough road detection system used by your vehicle.

If you have other misfire, ABS, or related codes, you should generally address those before proceeding with repairing a P0318. Nevertheless, save all freeze frame data, as it may be useful in any diagnostics.

If your vehicle has an accelerometer sensor, check the sensor’s condition, wiring, and connectors for any issues. Repair as needed. Then use a digital volt ohmmeter (DVOM) to check continuity, resistance, and other electrical aspects according to manufacturer specifications.

If possible, use an advanced scan tool to drive the vehicle on rough roads and monitor sensor readings from the appropriate vehicle sensors to determine if you can replicate the problem, helping to pinpoint where the issue lies.

P015E & P015F ISO/SAE reserved

What does it mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code applies generally to all spark ignition engines, including but not limited to certain Ford, Kia, Mazda, and Mercedes vehicles.

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) provides the crankshaft position or crankshaft timing to the Powertrain Control Module or PCM. This information is typically used for engine RPM. The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) provides the PCM with the exact location of the camshaft, camshaft timing, or distributor timing.

Whenever there is an electrical problem with either of these two circuits, depending on how the manufacturer wants to identify the fault, the PCM will set code P0320. This code is considered an electrical circuit fault only.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, the type of ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor, and the color of the sensor wires.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0320 engine code can include:

    Malfunction Indicator Light illuminated
    Engine cranks but does not start
    Misfires, hesitation, stumbling, lack of power

Causes

Possible causes for setting this code are:

    Open in the control circuit (ground circuit) between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
    Open in the power supply circuit between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
    Short to ground in the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor power supply circuit
    Faulty ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor
    Possibly a failed PCM (highly unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known fix published by the manufacturer and can save you time and money when diagnosing.

Next, locate the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor on your specific vehicle. It could be a crank/cam sensor; it could be a coil/pickup sensor inside the distributor; it could even be a wire from the coil going to the PCM to check the ignition system’s firing. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scrapes, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look burned or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

Depending on the vehicle, the most likely cause for P0320 to set is poor connections/updated ignition parts. This is why a TSB search for your vehicle cannot be emphasized enough.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if P0320 returns. If it does not, the connections were probably your problem.

If the P0320 code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. The next steps will be determined by the type of sensor you have: Hall effect or magnetic sensor. You can usually tell which one you have based on the number of wires coming from the sensor. If there are 3 wires from the sensor, it is a Hall effect sensor. If it has 2 wires, it will be a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor.

If it is a Hall effect sensor, disconnect the harness going to the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. With a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM), test the 5V power supply circuit going to each sensor to ensure it is powered (red wire to the 5V power circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a bad PCM.

If that is okay, with a DVOM, check that you have 5V on each signal circuit going to each sensor to ensure it has a signal circuit (red wire to the sensor’s signal circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a bad PCM.

If that is okay, check that you have a good ground at each sensor. Connect a 12V test light and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to each sensor. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate the circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wire harness going to each sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If it is a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor, we can check the sensor itself to see if it is working correctly. We will test it for: 1) Resistance 2) A/C Voltage Output 3) Short to Ground

With the sensor disconnected, connect the two wires of your ohmmeter to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Read the ohms resistance and compare it to your vehicle’s specifications: usually 750 – 2000 ohms. While still on ohms, disconnect 1 wire of your ohmmeter from the sensor and connect it to a good vehicle ground. If you get an ohms reading other than infinity or OL, the sensor has an internal short to ground. Remember not to touch the metal part of the wires with your fingers, as this could affect your readings.

Reconnect both wires of your DVOM to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Set your meter to read A/C voltage. While cranking the engine, read the a/c voltage output on your DVOM. Compare to the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle. A good rule of thumb is usually 0.5 V AC.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0320 code, it would most likely indicate a faulty ignition/distributor/engine sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced. In some cases, once the sensor is replaced, it will need to be calibrated to the PCM to function correctly.

If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs often need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

What does it mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code generally applies to all spark ignition engines, including but not limited to certain Audi, Mazda, Mercedes, and VW vehicles.

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) provides the crankshaft position or crankshaft timing to the Powertrain Control Module or PCM. This information is typically used for engine speed. The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) provides the PCM with the exact location of the camshaft, camshaft timing, or distributor timing.

Whenever there is an electrical problem with either of these two circuits, depending on how the manufacturer wants to identify the fault, the PCM will set code P0321. This code is considered an electrical circuit fault only.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, the type of ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor, and the color of the sensor wires.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0321 engine code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Light illuminated
Engine cranks but does not start
Misfires, hesitation, stumbling, lack of power

Causes

Possible causes for setting this code are:

Open in the control circuit (ground circuit) between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Open in the power supply circuit between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Short to ground in the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor power supply circuit
Faulty ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor
Possibly a failed PCM (highly unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known fix published by the manufacturer and can save you time and money when diagnosing.

Next, locate the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor on your specific vehicle. It could be a crank/cam sensor; it could be a coil/pickup sensor inside the distributor; it could even be a wire from the coil going to the PCM to check the ignition system’s firing. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scrapes, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look burned or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use an electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

Depending on the vehicle, the most likely cause of P0321 setting is poor connections/updated ignition parts. This is why researching TSBs for your vehicle cannot be emphasized enough.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if P0321 returns. If it does not, the connections were probably your problem.

If the P0321 code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. The next steps will be determined by the type of sensor you have: Hall effect or magnetic sensor. You can usually tell which one you have based on the number of wires coming from the sensor. If there are 3 wires from the sensor, it is a Hall effect sensor. If it has 2 wires, it will be a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor.

If it is a Hall effect sensor, disconnect the harness going to the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. With a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM), test the 5V power supply circuit going to each sensor to ensure it is powered (red wire to the 5V power circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that’s okay, with a DVOM, check that you have 5V on each signal circuit going to each sensor to ensure it has a signal circuit (red wire to the sensor signal circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that is okay, check that you have a good ground at each sensor. Connect a 12V test light and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to each sensor. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate the circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wire harness going to each sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If it is a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor, we can check the sensor itself to see if it is working correctly. We will test it for: 1) Resistance 2) A/C Voltage Output 3) Short to Ground

With the sensor disconnected, connect the two leads of your ohmmeter to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Read the ohms resistance and compare it to your vehicle’s specifications: typically 750 – 2000 ohms. While still on ohms, disconnect 1 lead of your ohmmeter from the sensor and connect it to a good vehicle ground. If you get an ohms reading other than infinity or OL, the sensor has an internal short to ground. Remember not to touch the metal part of the leads with your fingers, as this could affect your readings.

Reconnect the two leads of your DVOM to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Set your meter to read A/C voltage. While cranking the engine, read the a/c voltage output on your DVOM. Compare to the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle. A good rule of thumb is usually 0.5 V AC.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0321 code, this would most likely indicate a faulty ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced. In some cases, once the sensor is replaced, it will need to be calibrated to the PCM to function correctly.

If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs often need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

What does it mean?

---

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code typically applies to all spark ignition engines, including but not limited to certain Audi, Mazda, Mercedes, and VW vehicles.

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) provides the crankshaft position or crankshaft timing to the Powertrain Control Module or PCM. This information is typically used for engine speed.

The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) provides the PCM with the exact location of the camshaft, camshaft timing, or distributor timing. Whenever the voltage drops below a defined level in either of these two circuits, the PCM will set the P0322 code. This code is considered an electrical circuit fault only.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor type, and sensor wire colors.

Symptoms

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Symptoms of a P0322 engine code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Light illuminated
Engine cranks but does not start
Misfires, hesitation, stumbling, lack of power

Causes

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Possible causes for setting this code are:

Open in the control circuit (ground circuit) between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Open in the power supply circuit between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Short to ground in the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor power supply circuit
Faulty ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor
Possibly a failed PCM (highly unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

---

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue may be a known problem with a known fix published by the manufacturer and can save you time and money when diagnosing.

Next, locate the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor on your specific vehicle. It could be a crank/cam sensor; it could be a coil/pickup sensor inside the distributor; it could even be a wire from the coil going to the PCM to check the ignition system’s firing. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look burned or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic-bristled brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

Depending on the vehicle, the most likely cause of the P0322 setting is poor connections/updated ignition parts. This is why a TSB search for your vehicle cannot be emphasized enough.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if P0322 returns. If it does not, the connections were probably your problem.

If the P0322 code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. The next steps will be determined by the type of sensor you have: Hall effect or magnetic sensor. You can usually tell which one you have based on the number of wires coming from the sensor. If there are 3 wires from the sensor, it is a Hall effect sensor. If it has 2 wires, it will be a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor.

If it is a Hall effect sensor, disconnect the harness going to the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. With a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM), test the 5V power supply circuit going to each sensor to ensure it is powered (red wire to the 5V power circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that’s okay, with a DVOM, check that you have 5V on each signal circuit going to each sensor to ensure it has a signal circuit (red wire to the sensor’s signal circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that checks out, verify that you have a good ground at each sensor. Connect a 12V test light and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to each sensor. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate the circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wire harness going to each sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If it is a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor, we can check the sensor itself to see if it is functioning correctly. We will test it for: 1) Resistance 2) A/C Voltage Output 3) Short to Ground

With the sensor disconnected, connect the two leads of your ohmmeter to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Read the ohms resistance and compare it to your vehicle’s specifications: typically 750 – 2000 ohms. While still on ohms, disconnect 1 lead of your ohmmeter from the sensor and connect it to a good vehicle ground. If you get an ohms reading other than infinite or OL, the sensor has an internal short to ground. Remember not to touch the metal part of the leads with your fingers, as this could affect your readings.

Reconnect the two leads of your DVOM to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Set your meter to read A/C voltage. While cranking the engine, read the a/c voltage output on your DVOM. Compare to the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle. A good rule of thumb is typically 0.5 V AC.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0322 code, this would most likely indicate a faulty ignition/distributor/engine sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced. In some cases, once the sensor is replaced, it will need to be calibrated to the PCM to function correctly.

If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs often need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

What does it mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code generally applies to all spark ignition engines, including but not limited to certain Audi, Mazda, Mercedes, and VW vehicles.

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) provides the crankshaft position or crankshaft timing to the Powertrain Control Module or PCM. This information is typically used for engine speed.

The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) provides the PCM with the exact location of the camshaft, camshaft timing, or distributor timing. Whenever the voltage drops below a defined level in either of these two circuits, the PCM will set code P0323. This code is considered an electrical circuit fault only.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor type, and sensor wire colors.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0323 engine code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Light illuminated
Engine cranks but does not start
Misfires, hesitation, stumbling, lack of power

Causes

Possible causes for setting this code are:

Open in the control circuit (ground circuit) between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Open in the power supply circuit between the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor and the PCM
Short to ground in the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor power supply circuit
Faulty ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor
Possibly a failed PCM (highly unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue may be a known problem with a known fix published by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the ignition/distributor/engine speed sensor on your specific vehicle. It could be a crank/cam sensor; it could be a coil/pickup sensor inside the distributor; it might even be a wire from the coil going to the PCM to check the ignition system’s firing. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scrapes, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look burnt or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

Depending on the vehicle, the most likely cause for P0323 to set is poor connections/updated ignition parts. This is why researching TSBs for your vehicle cannot be emphasized enough.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if P0323 returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

If the P0323 code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. The next steps will be determined by the type of sensor you have: Hall effect or magnetic sensor. You can usually tell which one you have based on the number of wires coming from the sensor. If there are 3 wires from the sensor, it is a Hall effect sensor. If it has 2 wires, it will be a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor.

If it is a Hall effect sensor, disconnect the harness going to the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. With a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM), test the 5V power supply circuit going to each sensor to ensure it is powered (red wire to the 5V power circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that’s okay, with a DVOM, check that you have 5V on each signal circuit going to each sensor to ensure it has a signal circuit (red wire to the sensor signal circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that is okay, check that you have a good ground at each sensor. Connect a 12V test light and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to each sensor. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate the circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wire harness going to each sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If it is a Magnetic Pick-up type sensor, we can check the sensor itself to see if it is functioning correctly. We will test it for: 1) Resistance 2) A/C Voltage Output 3) Short to Ground

With the sensor disconnected, connect the two leads of your ohmmeter to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Read the ohms resistance and compare it to your vehicle’s specifications: typically 750 – 2000 ohms. While still on ohms, disconnect 1 lead of your ohmmeter from the sensor and connect it to a good vehicle ground. If you get an ohms reading other than infinite or OL, the sensor has an internal short to ground. Remember not to touch the metal part of the leads with your fingers, as this could affect your readings.

Reconnect the two leads of your DVOM to the 2 terminals of the camshaft/crankshaft position sensor. Set your meter to read A/C voltage. While cranking the engine, read the a/c voltage output on your DVOM. Compare to the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle. A good rule of thumb is typically 0.5 V AC.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0323 code, this would most likely indicate a faulty ignition/distributor/engine sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced. In some cases, once the sensor is replaced, it will need to be calibrated to the PCM to function correctly.

If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs often need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.