P0335 is a generic OBD2 trouble code pointing to a failure with the crankshaft position sensor (CPK sensor). The sensor monitors the position of the crankshaft in order to determine whether or not the engine is rotating.
The trouble code is triggered by the Engine Control Module (ECM), which is the computer that runs the engine. The ECM receives information from a number of sensors and compares it to expected values in order to determine if there is an error condition.
The ECM uses the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) as a reference point to determine if the engine is running at all. Technically, the CKP sends electrical pulses that correspond to the position of the crankshaft, which is connected to your car’s pistons. When these pulses are not received by the ECM, it will trigger this trouble code and display it on your dashboard.
The crank sensor is situated on the rear of the engine block, near where the crankshaft spins. The sensor itself is a small metal disc that attaches to one end of a long wire. The other end of the wire plugs into a connector mounted on top of the block.
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Common Symptoms of the P0335 Code
Some common symptoms of the P0335 code include:
Engine Hesitates or Misfires
If you’re experiencing a P0335 code, the engine may hesitate or misfire when you press on the accelerator. You might also notice that your car runs rough and doesn’t seem to accelerate as smoothly as it did before.
Engine Stalls or Fails To Start
If you’re experiencing a P0335 code, the engine may stall or fail to start at all. When you try to start your car, it may crank for a few seconds and then stop. Or it may just turn over but not start. You might also notice that the engine stalls when you brake or slow down quickly.
Check Engine Light Illuminates on Dashboard
The Check Engine Light may come on and illuminate on your vehicle’s dashboard. The light may flash or remain steady, depending on the model of your vehicle.
The Check Engine Light will illuminate when a P0335 code is present, but it will also illuminate for other reasons, such as a low gas tank or a loose gas cap.
Rough Idle or Stumble
The P0335 code is often accompanied by a rough idle or stumbling engine when you accelerate. The problem may also be noticeable when you come to a complete stop, which can cause your vehicle to stall out.
Low Engine Power or Poor Acceleration
If you have a failing crankshaft position sensor, you may notice a decrease in engine power or poor acceleration. You may notice that your vehicle takes longer to accelerate when you step on the gas pedal, and it may feel like your vehicle is not accelerating as quickly as it should.
There may also be a noticeable hesitation when you step on the gas pedal. If your vehicle is outfitted with an automatic transmission, you may notice that it shifts into lower gears more often than normal.
Overheating
If your crankshaft position sensor is faulty, your engine may overheat because it can’t operate at peak performance. You may notice that your vehicle’s temperature gauge is higher than normal and that your vehicle is overheating. You may also hear a hissing noise coming from the engine compartment as coolant escapes through the radiator cap.
Possible Causes of the P0335 Code
Here are some potential causes for the P0335 code:
Damaged or Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
A malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can trigger the P0335 code. This sensor tells the computer when the engine is at the top dead center and when it’s not.
When an engine is at the top dead center, this means that the piston is at its highest point and the crankshaft is in a position where it can be turned. When it’s not in this position, the computer knows that something is wrong with the engine and will set a P0335 code.
Damaged or Faulty Wiring Harness
A damaged or faulty wiring harness or a short in a connector can trigger the P0335 code. The wiring harness is designed to carry current from the sensors on the engine, such as the camshaft position sensor, oxygen sensor, and crankshaft position sensor. If this harness becomes damaged or corroded, it can cause issues with reading signals from these sensors.
Open or Shorted Signal Circuit
A signal circuit that is open or shorted may cause the P0335 code to appear on your dashboard. If this is the case, then there may be a problem with one of the wires in your vehicle’s ECU.
Damaged Reluctor on the CKP Sensor
The reluctor is a part of the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) that is used to measure engine speed. If this piece is damaged, it will not send accurate information to your car’s computer system. As a result, you may receive a P0335 error code when you start your car.
Faulty PCM
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is the computer that controls your car’s fuel and ignition systems. It monitors all of these systems and sends signals to them when it needs to keep your engine running smoothly.
When a P0335 code is set, it means that one of those signals was either too high or too low. This can happen when the PCM is damaged or has been improperly calibrated.
A Vacuum Leak in the Intake System
A vacuum leak in the intake system can cause your engine to run poorly. When this happens, it can set the P0335 diagnostic trouble code. A vacuum leak causes air to get into your engine and reduces the power output.
Engine Mechanical Problems
The engine itself can also cause a P0335 error code. This can happen if there is a problem with the distributor cap, wires, spark plugs, or ignition coil. If one of these parts fails and causes the engine to run inefficiently or not at all, it will set this diagnostic trouble code.
How To Fix a P0335 Code
Check Your Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor
The first thing you should do is check the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. This sensor is located on the engine block and should be attached to a wire.
If you notice that there is a loose wire, this could be the problem. You will need to remove it and connect it back to the engine block. If the sensor is broken or damaged, you will need to replace it. You can find a replacement at most auto parts stores.
Once you install the new sensor, reset your car’s computer so that it recognizes the change.
Check the Wiring and Connectors
You’ll want to check all of your connections. This includes making sure all of your connectors are in place and secure. If you have any loose connections, they will likely produce a P0335 code. Also, check for corrosion on any of your wires or connectors, which could also be causing an issue.
If the wires or connectors are corroded, you’ll need to replace them. You can choose to check the wires yourself, and you can do this by looking for any breaks in the insulation or frayed ends. You can also use a multimeter to test your wires for continuity and resistance.
Check Your Vehicle’s Reluctor Ring
The reluctor ring is the part of the ignition system that receives signals from the ignition switch and sends those signals to the computer.
It’s located on top of the crankshaft pulley, and it has a series of teeth on it that align with a sensor as the engine turns.
If the ring is worn out or damaged, you will need to replace it. You can inspect the reluctor ring by looking at it closely and checking for cracks or breaks in the teeth.
Look for a Broken or Damaged Timing Chain
If the timing chain is broken, you will need to replace it. The timing chain can break due to wear and tear, or you may have had a hard impact that caused the chain to break.
Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost
A faulty crankshaft position sensor can cause a variety of problems, including stalling, poor acceleration, and erratic shifting. This means that it’s time for a replacement.
The cost of replacing a crankshaft position sensor varies, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In many cases, it’s possible to repair a faulty sensor rather than replace it completely. This can save you some money in the long run.
However, if you have to replace it, you need to account not just for the cost of the part but also for labor costs. But generally speaking, it can cost you anywhere between $100 and $300. This includes labor costs.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Diagnosing The P0335 Code
Diagnosing the Wrong Position Sensor
Every car engine has two significant position sensors, which are the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor.
It’s easy to mix up the two if you don’t know what each of them looks like and where they are situated in your car’s engine. This can result in a false diagnosis and unnecessary parts replacements. If you have not done any engine repairs before, it’s best to take your car to a professional mechanic and let them diagnose it for you.
Not Checking All Possible P0335 Causes
A common mistake DIYers make is to assume that the most common cause of P0335 is a bad camshaft position sensor. While it’s true that this is usually the most likely culprit, there are many other things that can go wrong with your car’s engine and cause this code to come up on your dash.
Diagnosing the Problem Yourself
There is nothing wrong with trying to diagnose your own car problems, but it’s very important to do so properly and responsibly.
You should only attempt to diagnose your vehicle if you have some experience with cars and know how they work. If you are new to auto repair or don’t feel confident enough yet to diagnose the problem yourself, it’s best to take it to a reputable mechanic.
End Note
If you have a good understanding of how a car engine and ignition system works, it’s possible to diagnose the cause of a P0335 trouble code yourself.
It’s important to know that the P0335 code is actually a generic code for any number of problems with your car, and it’s not possible to diagnose the problem without further information from the manufacturer.
It’s also important to take safety precautions when diagnosing a P0335 code, especially if you’re checking for faulty wiring and connections.
If you’re not sure how to safely diagnose a problem with your car’s emissions system, it’s best to leave this task up to a professional mechanic.
