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P0335 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0335 code illustration showing a crankshaft position sensor, reluctor wheel, engine timing components, Check Engine Light, Pro Street TV logo, and www.ProStreetOnline.com.

Crankshaft Position Sensors play a huge part in your vehicle’s operation. This is usually a hall effect or magnetic sensor that informs engine position and speed to the ECU or Powertrain Control Unit. Based on this information, your onboard computer dictates combustion events. Should this sensor fail or encounter issues, is when your P0335 trouble code is triggered.

If your check engine light is turned on, and you pull a P0335 trouble code using a scan tool, this guide can help. With the right amount of research and testing, you can fix P0335 issues with just a bit of patience.

What Does P0335 Code Mean?

Within the OBDII error code vernacular, the P0335 check engine light translates to Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction. Although some vehicles have multiple crankshaft sensors, chances are you have just one. In order to clear this check engine light, you will need to perform a variety of tests to see where the problem lies.

What does the crankshaft position sensor do?

This sensor reads the position of your crankshaft, and sends this data to your ECU. By measuring the exact rotational speed as well as the position of your crank, your vehicle can function. The Powertrain Control Unit or ECU will then use this data to control spark and fuel delivery.

If this signal is interrupted or the ECU sees a value that’s incorrect, a misfire can occur. When there is no signal from this sensor that’s when the P0335 check engine light is illuminated.

If your OBD-II scanner displays P0335, your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) “A” circuit.

The generic OBD-II definition for P0335 is:

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction

The crankshaft position sensor is one of the most critical sensors in modern engine management. It continuously monitors crankshaft speed and position so the PCM can accurately control:

If the PCM loses or receives an incorrect crankshaft position signal, it stores P0335 and usually illuminates the Check Engine Light.

In many vehicles, a complete CKP signal loss will prevent the engine from starting.

Common causes include:

Because the crankshaft position sensor directly controls engine timing, P0335 is considered a high-priority diagnostic trouble code.

P0335 Troubleshooting Guides

Symptoms of a failed crankshaft position sensor

How can you tell if your crankshaft position sensor is bad? There are quite a few symptoms of this failure, a few of which you can find below.

Car won’t start – Hard to start car – Without the right signal, your ECU will refuse to deliver fuel or spark. When this happens, you need to fix P0335 issues before you can get your car back on the road.

Engine stalls – This can be a serious condition and one you shouldn’t drive your vehicle under. If your vehicle stalls, this can create dangerous problems, especially if you own an automatic or CVT transmission.

Engine misfires – Because your ECU doesn’t know exactly what your crank is up to, misfires can occur. These can cause damage to your engine, and can even lead to popping from your tailpipe or black soot and even smoke.

Check Engine Light – When your crankshaft sensor fails, the stored MIL status will trigger your check engine light. If this happens, don’t be discouraged but look for the right P0335 guide to clear check engine light problems.

Common Causes

Bad Camshaft Position Sensor – In some rare cases, bad camshaft sensors can contribute to the P0335 trouble code. This usually causes other MIL codes as well, so be mindful of that before checking your CAS.

Defective Crankshaft Position Sensor – One of the obvious culprits to this check engine light, replacing your CKP will fix this issue.

Bad wiring – Corroded wiring or a break in the vehicle wiring can cause problems with your crankshaft sensor signal.

What Does the P0335 Code Mean?

The crankshaft position sensor monitors the exact rotational position and speed of the crankshaft.

The PCM uses this information to determine:

If the PCM detects that the CKP signal is missing, erratic, or outside its expected range, it stores P0335.

Without a reliable crankshaft signal, proper engine operation becomes impossible.

What Is the Crankshaft Position Sensor?

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) is mounted near:

Depending on the manufacturer, the sensor may be:

As the crankshaft rotates, a reluctor wheel passes the sensor and generates a signal that tells the PCM the crankshaft’s exact position.

Why the Crankshaft Position Sensor Is Important

The CKP sensor is one of the primary inputs used by the PCM.

Without it, the PCM cannot accurately determine:

Many engines will immediately stall if the CKP signal disappears while driving.

How the PCM Detects P0335

The PCM continuously compares crankshaft position data with:

If the crankshaft signal:

the PCM stores P0335.

Some vehicles require multiple failures before the Check Engine Light turns on, while others illuminate it immediately.

What Does “Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction” Mean?

P0335 does not always mean the crankshaft position sensor itself has failed.

Instead, it indicates the PCM has detected a problem somewhere within the crankshaft position sensing circuit.

Possible causes include:

Proper testing is required before replacing components.

Can a Bad Crankshaft Position Sensor Cause P0335?

Absolutely.

The CKP sensor is the most common cause of P0335.

Common failures include:

Many crankshaft sensors fail intermittently before failing completely.

Can Wiring Problems Cause P0335?

Yes.

Inspect for:

Since the CKP signal is extremely sensitive, even minor wiring damage can interrupt communication with the PCM.

Can a Damaged Reluctor Wheel Cause P0335?

Definitely.

The reluctor wheel generates the signal read by the crankshaft sensor.

Common problems include:

Damage to the reluctor wheel often produces erratic RPM readings and intermittent stalling.

Can Timing Problems Cause P0335?

Yes.

Timing chain or timing belt problems may alter crankshaft-to-camshaft synchronization.

Possible causes include:

These problems may trigger P0335 along with camshaft correlation codes.

P0335 Quick Facts

ItemInformation
DTCP0335
Generic DefinitionCrankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction
SystemEngine Management / Ignition
SeverityHigh
Safe to Drive?No (if stalling or no-start occurs)
Common SymptomsCheck Engine Light, no-start, stalling, hard starting, rough running
Common CausesFailed CKP sensor, damaged wiring, reluctor wheel damage, timing issues
Typical Repair Cost$150–1,800+
Related CodesP0336, P0337, P0338, P0339, P0340, P0016, P0300

Common Vehicles That Experience P0335

P0335 commonly appears on:

It is especially common on:

What Does P0335 Really Mean?

Many drivers immediately assume P0335 means the crankshaft sensor must be replaced.

While the sensor itself is often responsible, the PCM is actually reporting a fault somewhere in the crankshaft position sensing circuit.

The underlying problem may involve:

Think of P0335 as the PCM saying:

“I’m no longer receiving a reliable crankshaft position signal. Inspect the sensor, wiring, reluctor wheel, and engine timing before replacing parts.”

Common P0335 Scan Tool Patterns

Using a professional scan tool is one of the fastest ways to diagnose P0335.

Unlike some intermittent sensor faults, P0335 often produces obvious live-data abnormalities because the crankshaft position sensor provides critical engine timing information.

Modern scan tools may display:

Monitoring these values often helps determine whether the problem is caused by the sensor itself, damaged wiring, timing issues, or PCM communication problems.

Pattern 1: Engine RPM Reads Zero While Cranking

One of the most common scan-tool patterns is:

Possible causes include:

If the PCM never receives an RPM signal, it cannot start the engine.

Pattern 2: Intermittent RPM Signal

Live data may show:

Possible causes include:

Intermittent crankshaft sensor failures are extremely common.

Pattern 3: CKP and CMP Correlation Errors

The PCM constantly compares the crankshaft and camshaft signals.

If scan data shows:

Possible causes include:

Many vehicles will also store:

Pattern 4: Engine Starts Then Immediately Stalls

Some vehicles display:

Possible causes include:

The PCM immediately shuts down ignition and fuel injection when crankshaft position information is lost.

Pattern 5: Freeze-Frame During Highway Driving

Freeze-frame data often reveals:

Heat-related crankshaft sensor failures frequently occur after the engine reaches operating temperature.

Pattern 6: Long Crank Before Starting

Some vehicles require extended cranking before starting.

Possible causes include:

The PCM may eventually recognize the signal after several crankshaft revolutions.

Pattern 7: Misfire Codes Accompany P0335

P0335 commonly appears with:

A weak or intermittent crankshaft signal may cause false misfire detection.

Common Symptoms of P0335

Symptoms vary depending on whether the crankshaft signal is intermittent or completely absent.

Common symptoms include:

Some vehicles may stall without warning while driving.

Check Engine Light

The Check Engine Light is almost always present.

Depending on the severity of the failure, additional timing or misfire codes may also appear.

Engine Stalling

One of the most common symptoms is sudden stalling.

When the PCM loses crankshaft position information:

Intermittent stalls often occur after the engine reaches operating temperature.

Hard Starting or No-Start

Without a valid CKP signal, the PCM cannot determine:

Many vehicles will crank normally but never start.

Rough Running and Hesitation

If the CKP signal becomes unstable rather than disappearing completely, drivers may notice:

These symptoms may worsen as engine temperature increases.

Is P0335 Serious?

Yes. P0335 is considered a high-severity diagnostic trouble code.

Ignoring it may result in:

Immediate diagnosis is recommended.

Can You Drive With P0335?

Driving with P0335 is not recommended.

If the vehicle currently runs:

Do not continue driving if you experience:

Unexpected engine shutdown creates a significant safety hazard.

P0335 vs Related Trouble Codes

Understanding related crankshaft and camshaft codes simplifies diagnosis.

P0335

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction

General malfunction affecting the crankshaft position sensor circuit.

P0336

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance

The crankshaft signal is present but outside normal operating parameters.

P0337

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Low Input

The PCM detects a signal voltage below specification.

P0338

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit High Input

The crankshaft sensor circuit voltage is higher than expected.

P0339

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent

The crankshaft position signal is intermittently lost.

P0340

Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction

The camshaft position sensor circuit has failed and often appears with P0335 during synchronization problems.

30 Common Causes of P0335

The most common causes include:

  1. Failed crankshaft position sensor
  2. Heat-damaged CKP sensor
  3. Open CKP circuit
  4. Shorted CKP wiring
  5. Loose electrical connector
  6. Corroded terminals
  7. Oil contamination in the connector
  8. Broken reluctor wheel teeth
  9. Bent reluctor wheel
  10. Incorrect sensor air gap
  11. Stretched timing chain
  12. Jumped timing belt
  13. Failed timing chain tensioner
  14. Crankshaft end play
  15. Damaged harmonic balancer
  16. Broken flexplate reluctor ring
  17. Water intrusion
  18. Rodent damage
  19. Poor engine grounds
  20. Low battery voltage
  21. Charging system problems
  22. Aftermarket wiring damage
  23. Failed camshaft position sensor
  24. Variable valve timing faults
  25. Excessive engine vibration
  26. Internal engine damage
  27. PCM connector corrosion
  28. PCM calibration issue
  29. Failed PCM driver
  30. Failed PCM (extremely rare)

Final Thoughts

The P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction code indicates the PCM has lost a reliable crankshaft position signal that is essential for engine timing, ignition, and fuel injection.

Fortunately, failed crankshaft position sensors, damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, and reluctor wheel problems account for the majority of P0335 repairs.

Proper diagnosis should determine whether the fault originates in:

The next section of this guide covers:

Following a systematic diagnostic process prevents unnecessary parts replacement while restoring reliable engine operation, accurate ignition timing, and long-term engine performance.

Related Pro Street Diagnostic Guides

How to Diagnose the P0335 Code

Diagnosing P0335 requires determining why the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has lost a reliable Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) signal.

Unlike P0337, P0338, or P0339, which identify specific circuit faults, P0335 is a general crankshaft position sensor circuit malfunction that requires systematic testing of the entire CKP system.

The underlying problem may involve:

Because the crankshaft position sensor controls ignition timing, fuel injection, and engine synchronization, diagnosis should begin immediately if the engine stalls or refuses to start.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning diagnosis:

Avoid working near rotating engine components while the engine is running.

Tools Required

Professional diagnosis may require:

An oscilloscope provides the most accurate method of evaluating crankshaft sensor signal quality.

Step 1 – Verify the Code

Connect a professional scan tool.

Record:

Monitor:

Never erase codes before recording freeze-frame information.

Step 2 – Check for Related Trouble Codes

P0335 frequently appears with:

Related codes often help determine whether the failure involves timing components or another engine management sensor.

Code CombinationLikely Diagnosis
P0335 onlyCKP sensor or circuit fault
P0335 + P0340CKP/CMP synchronization problem
P0335 + P0016Timing chain or reluctor wheel issue
P0335 + P0300Misfires caused by unstable CKP signal
P0335 + P0339Intermittent crankshaft sensor failure

Step 3 – Review Freeze-Frame Data

Study:

Determine whether the fault occurred:

Heat-related failures are very common with aging crankshaft sensors.

Step 4 – Perform a Visual Inspection

Inspect the crankshaft position sensor and surrounding area.

Check for:

Many CKP failures can be identified visually.

Step 5 – Inspect the Wiring Harness

Follow the CKP wiring harness.

Inspect for:

Repair damaged wiring before replacing the sensor.

Step 6 – Inspect the Electrical Connector

Disconnect the CKP sensor connector.

Inspect for:

Clean or replace damaged connectors as necessary.

Step 7 – Verify Battery and Charging System Voltage

Low system voltage may interfere with sensor operation.

Normal voltage:

Repair charging system faults before continuing diagnosis.

Step 8 – Monitor Engine RPM While Cranking

Observe live scan data.

During cranking:

If RPM remains at 0, the PCM is not receiving a usable CKP signal.

Step 9 – Test CKP Sensor Resistance

For magnetic pickup sensors:

Disconnect the sensor.

Measure internal resistance.

Compare the reading with manufacturer specifications.

Readings outside specification typically indicate sensor failure.

Hall-effect sensors generally require voltage testing instead of resistance measurements.

Step 10 – Verify Sensor Power and Ground

Using a multimeter:

Check:

Verify voltage matches factory specifications.

Step 11 – Inspect the Reluctor Wheel

Inspect the reluctor wheel using a borescope or during component removal.

Check for:

A damaged reluctor wheel produces incorrect crankshaft position signals.

Step 12 – Verify Sensor Air Gap

Some CKP sensors require a precise air gap.

Measure the gap between:

Compare measurements with manufacturer specifications.

Excessive clearance weakens the crankshaft signal.

Step 13 – Test the CKP Signal Using an Oscilloscope

An oscilloscope provides the most accurate diagnosis.

Inspect the waveform for:

A clean, consistent waveform confirms proper sensor operation.

Step 14 – Verify Camshaft Synchronization

Monitor:

Incorrect synchronization often indicates:

Step 15 – Review Technical Service Bulletins

Before replacing expensive components:

Review manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).

Manufacturers occasionally release updates addressing:

Step 16 – Inspect Engine Timing Components

Inspect:

Timing problems frequently trigger crankshaft correlation codes alongside P0335.

Step 17 – Perform a Road Test

If the engine runs:

Monitor:

Attempt to duplicate the conditions shown in freeze-frame data.

Step 18 – Verify Sensor Operation at Operating Temperature

Many CKP sensors fail only after becoming hot.

Allow the engine to reach full operating temperature.

Continue monitoring:

Heat-related failures often become obvious during this step.

Step 19 – Complete an OBD-II Drive Cycle

After repairs:

Step 20 – Confirm the Diagnosis

Before replacing expensive components, verify:

Completing these diagnostic procedures prevents unnecessary parts replacement while accurately identifying the root cause of P0335.

Step 21 – Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor

If testing confirms the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) has failed, replacement is the correct repair.

Common signs of sensor failure include:

General replacement procedure:

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Locate the crankshaft position sensor.
  3. Disconnect the electrical connector.
  4. Remove the retaining bolt(s).
  5. Carefully remove the old sensor.
  6. Inspect the mounting surface for debris.
  7. Lubricate the new O-ring if required.
  8. Install the new sensor and torque it to specification.
  9. Reconnect the electrical connector.
  10. Clear diagnostic trouble codes.

Some engines require a Crankshaft Position Variation Relearn (CKP Relearn) after sensor replacement.

Step 22 – Repair Wiring Problems

Inspect the complete CKP wiring harness.

Look for:

Repair using:

Poor electrical connections are one of the most common causes of intermittent P0335 codes.

Step 23 – Repair or Replace the Reluctor Wheel

If inspection reveals reluctor wheel damage:

Replace or repair the affected component.

Inspect for:

A damaged reluctor wheel produces incorrect crankshaft position signals regardless of sensor condition.

Step 24 – Repair Timing Components

If crankshaft and camshaft synchronization is incorrect:

Inspect:

Replace worn timing components according to manufacturer procedures.

Incorrect mechanical timing frequently triggers P0335 along with cam/crank correlation codes.

Step 25 – Repair Engine Grounds

Poor engine grounding may interfere with CKP sensor operation.

Inspect:

Clean corrosion and tighten loose connections before replacing electronic components.

Step 26 – Repair Connector Damage

Inspect the CKP sensor connector for:

Replace damaged connectors using OEM repair kits whenever possible.

Step 27 – Perform a Crankshaft Position Relearn

Many modern vehicles require a CKP Variation Relearn after replacing:

Using a professional scan tool:

Failure to perform this relearn may result in continued misfire detection or recurring P0335 codes.

Step 28 – Verify Sensor Operation

After repairs:

Monitor live scan data.

Verify:

The crankshaft signal should remain stable throughout the RPM range.

Step 29 – Complete an OBD-II Drive Cycle

After repairs:

Verify P0335 does not return.

Step 30 – Verify the Repair

After completing repairs:

  1. Clear all stored codes.
  2. Start the engine.
  3. Verify immediate engine start.
  4. Confirm stable idle.
  5. Road test the vehicle.
  6. Monitor live CKP and CMP data.
  7. Verify no pending or permanent DTCs return.
  8. Confirm normal ignition timing and engine performance.

A successful repair restores proper engine synchronization, ignition timing, fuel injector control, and reliable starting.

How to Fix P0335

The proper repair depends on the diagnostic results.

Common repairs include:

Never replace the PCM until every other possible cause has been eliminated.

Typical Repair Costs

RepairTypical Cost
Professional diagnosis$100–250
Crankshaft position sensor replacement$150–450
Wiring repair$100–350
Connector replacement$75–200
Reluctor wheel replacement$300–1,200
Timing chain replacement$900–2,500
Timing belt replacement$500–1,500
CKP relearn procedure$75–200
PCM software update$100–250
PCM replacement (rare)$900–2,500+

Repair costs vary depending on engine design, labor rates, and sensor accessibility.

Common Diagnostic Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes:

Most P0335 repairs involve the sensor, wiring, or timing components rather than PCM failure.

Manufacturer-Specific Notes

General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick)

Inspect:

Many GM vehicles require a crankshaft variation relearn after sensor replacement.

Ford/Lincoln

Inspect:

Heat-related sensor failures are common on higher-mileage engines.

Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram

Inspect:

Sensor damage from oil contamination is frequently encountered.

Toyota/Lexus

Inspect:

Toyota engines generally have highly reliable CKP sensors, making wiring faults more common than sensor failure.

Nissan/Infiniti

Inspect:

Many Nissan engines set both crankshaft and camshaft correlation codes when timing chain wear develops.

Honda/Acura

Inspect:

Verify sensor installation depth if the sensor has recently been replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What usually fixes P0335?

The most common repairs include replacing a failed crankshaft position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, replacing corroded connectors, repairing timing chain problems, replacing a damaged reluctor wheel, or performing a crankshaft position relearn.

Can I drive with P0335?

Driving with P0335 is not recommended. The engine may stall unexpectedly, fail to restart, or experience severe misfires that create unsafe driving conditions.

Does P0335 always mean the crankshaft position sensor is bad?

No. Although the CKP sensor is the most common cause, P0335 may also result from damaged wiring, reluctor wheel problems, timing chain wear, poor electrical connections, or PCM communication issues.

Can a bad timing chain cause P0335?

Yes. A stretched timing chain or jumped timing belt can alter crankshaft and camshaft synchronization, causing the PCM to detect an invalid crankshaft position signal.

Is P0335 a serious code?

Yes. P0335 is considered a high-severity diagnostic trouble code. Ignoring it may lead to hard starting, no-start conditions, engine stalling, poor performance, increased emissions, and potential catalytic converter damage caused by repeated misfires.

Final Thoughts

The P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction code indicates the PCM has lost a reliable crankshaft position signal that is essential for proper engine operation.

Fortunately, failed crankshaft position sensors, damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, reluctor wheel damage, and worn timing components account for the majority of P0335 repairs.

A complete diagnosis should always verify:

Following a systematic diagnostic process prevents unnecessary parts replacement while restoring reliable engine starting, accurate ignition timing, proper fuel injection, and long-term engine performance.

Continue Your Pro Street CKP Sensor Series

Related guides include:

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