Last Updated on: 7th September 2023, 12:47 am
The error message P0335 is an identification code that points to an issue with the “Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit”. This is known as a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).
Identifying the precise issue causing this fault code is crucial, as multiple factors could lead to it. Therefore, a detailed diagnosis specific to your vehicle is necessary.
P Fault Code Meaning
If a DTC is associated to the powertrain, an OBD scanner will read it as starting with P, thus the letter “P”. Generic fault codes are those of the format P0xxx.
P0335 is a diagnostic error code signifying an issue with the crankshaft position circuit, detected by the OBD-II system.
What Is the P0335 Fault Code
The P0335 diagnostic code signifies there’s an issue with the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor is key in providing crucial information about ignition timing and fuel delivery to the engine control module.
Whenever the powertrain control module (PCM), which oversees the vehicle’s engine operations, senses a problem with this sensor, it lights up the check engine warning on your dashboard and initiates a failsafe mode.
The reason behind this specific code getting triggered is the engine control module’s inability to confirm the proper functioning of the crankshaft position sensor.
This might also occur when there’s a glitch with the square wave voltage signal that’s produced by the sensor’s reluctor ring.
It’s worth noting that the P0335 code is specifically associated with the crankshaft position sensor “A” in bank 1.
Is It Serious?
The fault code P0335 is a significant warning sign that there might be mechanical or electrical problems with the engine.
If you observe any issues with the way your vehicle drives, or if the check engine light illuminates, it’s crucial to get your vehicle fixed promptly.
Persisting to drive with this fault code active might lead to risky situations, such as unexpected engine failure or escalating engine damage.
If your vehicle shows a P0335 code, it is recommended to avoid driving it until it has been thoroughly repaired, to prevent potential breakdowns or additional engine damage.
In case you spot any performance irregularities with your vehicle, it’s vital to get it diagnosed to pinpoint the problem, and undertake the necessary steps to repair it.
Potential Causes
Here are some potential reasons for the occurrence of a P0335 diagnostic code.
- Compromised wiring harness: This can occur due to frayed or broken wires, disconnected wires, or corrosion.
- Inadequate electrical connections: These can result from dirty or loose terminals, impaired connectors, or due to corrosion.
- Crankshaft position sensor defects: Wear and tear, damage, or an internal failure in the crankshaft position sensor could be the cause.
- Signal plate damage: The signal plate found on the crankshaft could get damaged due to usage over time, physical damage, or a malfunction within the plate itself.
- Snapped timing belt or chain: If the timing belt or chain breaks, the engine could stop functioning, which might necessitate substantial repair work.
- Malfunctioning ECM/PCM: The engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) might malfunction due to a software glitch, hardware issue, or other complications.
- Engine misfire or rough running: This can be due to a multitude of issues, encompassing problems with the ignition system, fuel system, or other mechanical issues.
Signs & Symptoms
The signs of a P0335 code can greatly vary and might not always be evident right away. Here are some potential symptoms you may notice.
- Check engine light: This light may illuminate when the P0335 code is triggered, but it might not light up until the issue has reoccurred multiple times. (see more about the check engine light)
- Vehicle stalling or faltering: You may notice your vehicle stalling or hesitating during acceleration, especially if the crankshaft position sensor isn’t working correctly.
- Trouble starting the engine: If the crankshaft position sensor isn’t giving the engine control module the correct timing information for ignition and fuel delivery, you might experience difficulties starting the vehicle.
- Engine running roughly: If the crankshaft position sensor isn’t working as it should, your vehicle may run poorly or show unusual vibrations.
- Engine suddenly stops: In certain cases, the engine might stop running unexpectedly if the crankshaft position sensor isn’t providing accurate information to the engine control module.
Additional symptoms of a P0335 fault code might include subpar fuel efficiency and a decrease in engine power.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get your vehicle fixed as soon as possible to avoid further engine damage.
Diagnosing the P0335 Fault Code
Pinpointing the cause of a P0335 diagnostic code usually involves a sequence of procedures that could require specific tools and a solid understanding of mechanics.
Here are some typical steps a mechanic might take to identify the root cause of a P0335 code.
- Using a scan tool, check for any codes stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may include present, historical, and forthcoming codes, along with freeze frame data. Clear any detected codes and perform a road test to try to reproduce the symptoms.
- Carry out a visual examination of the crankshaft position sensor and its associated wiring, watching for indications of damage or wear.
- Use the scan tool to observe the readings of the crankshaft position sensor and RPM signal. If these are within normal limits, evaluate the wiring to ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Test the PCM following manufacturer-recommended testing guidelines.
If you’re not comfortable with vehicle diagnostics or lack the necessary tools or knowledge to diagnose a P0335 fault code, it’s advisable to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for a detailed diagnosis and repair.
Attempting to rectify this code at home can consume a significant amount of time and effort and might demand a greater mechanical understanding than what beginners typically possess.
To determine if the crankshaft position sensor is malfunctioning and causing the P0335 code, you might want to consider testing the crankshaft sensor.
This would help you verify if the sensor is indeed the source of the problem.
Common Mistakes
Appropriate diagnosis of a P0335 diagnostic code is crucial to ensure the actual problem is pinpointed and appropriately rectified.
Even skilled technicians can err if the diagnostic procedures are not followed systematically.
The most frequently observed cause of a P0335 code is a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor, but it’s essential to examine all potential causes so that issues like a damaged sensor ring or timing belt aren’t missed.
Other possible causes of a P0335 code might include issues with the following.
- wiring harness
- electrical connections
- signal plate
- engine control module (ECM)
- powertrain control module (PCM)
- or other mechanical problems
Following a meticulous diagnostic process is vital to discern the exact cause of the code and undertake the suitable steps for its repair.
How to Fix a P0335 Code
There are various common fixes for a P0335 diagnostic code, each dependent on the particular cause of the issue.
Here’s a list of potential repairs that might be necessary.
- Replacement of the crankshaft sensor: If the crankshaft position sensor is defective or damaged, replacing it could solve the problem.
- Repair or replacement of the wiring harness: Should there be a problem with the wiring harness, such as damaged or frayed wires, it might need repair or replacement.
- PCM/ECM replacement: If the powertrain control module (PCM) or the engine control module (ECM) is malfunctioning, a replacement may be needed.
- Signal plate replacement: If the signal plate, located on the crankshaft, is damaged or not working correctly, it might need to be replaced.
- Repair or replacement of the engine timing belt or chain: If the timing belt or chain is broken or damaged, it could require repair or replacement, along with any mechanical damage resulting from the problem.
It’s crucial to diagnose the exact cause of a P0335 code and follow the suitable repair steps to resolve the issue.
Driving With a Faulty Crank Sensor
Generally, it’s not advisable to operate a vehicle with a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor, as it can lead to several problems impacting the vehicle’s driveability and safety.
Here are some potential problems that could occur if you continue to drive a vehicle with a defective crank sensor.
- Stalling or faltering: If the crankshaft position sensor isn’t delivering precise information about the timing of ignition and fuel delivery, the engine might stall or hesitate during acceleration.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: A faulty crank sensor might cause the engine to run inefficiently, leading to poor fuel economy.
- Loss of engine power: If the crank sensor isn’t working correctly, the vehicle may lose power or acceleration.
- Sudden engine stop: In some scenarios, the engine might stop running unexpectedly if the crank sensor isn’t delivering accurate information.
In summary, it’s preferable to avoid driving a vehicle with a faulty crankshaft position sensor until it has been fixed to prevent any of these issues from arising.
P0335 Code Still Appearing
If you’ve replaced the crankshaft position sensor and the P0335 code persists, there might be other problems that need resolving. Some potential causes could include the following.
- Incorrect installation of the new sensor: It’s critical to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions while installing the new crank sensor to guarantee its proper placement. If it’s installed incorrectly, it may not work as expected and the code might still show up.
- Damaged wiring: If the wiring connected to the crank sensor is faulty or has a weak connection, it could hinder the sensor’s effective operation.
- Malfunctioning ECM or PCM: If the ECM or PCM is faulty, it may not accurately process the information from the crank sensor.
- Other mechanical issues: There might be other issues related to the vehicle’s engine or other mechanical parts leading to the appearance of the P0335 code.
To solve this issue, you might need to conduct more diagnostic tests to pinpoint the specific cause and implement the appropriate solutions.
