P0335 or Crankshaft Position “A” Circuit Malfunction

The P0335 trouble code indicates a possible issue with your vehicle’s crankshaft. But what exactly does this mean and how can you resolve the problem? Read on to learn more about the OBD-II code P0335. 

What Does the P0335 Code Mean?

The OBD-II code P0335 is a generic diagnostic trouble code that stands for “Crankshaft Position “A” Circuit Malfunction.” The code is set when your car’s primary computer—also known as the powertrain control module (PCM)—is unable to detect a signal from the crankshaft position sensor.  

The ECM/PCM always needs to know the speed and position of the crankshaft – this is a foundational input without which the engine won’t start. However, on some platforms, if the crank sensor fails while the engine is running, the engine will continue to run until the next time it is switched off and then it will fail to start. This is the exception rather than the rule.

The ECM/PCM always needs to know the speed and position of the crankshaft – this is a foundational input without which the engine won’t start.

–Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

The crankshaft sensor may be an inductive (analog wave) sensor or it may be a Hall-Effect (digital square wave) sensor.

Let’s look at the criteria a few different manufacturers use for setting the P0335:

2018 Nissan Altima:

1. The crankshaft position sensor (POS) signal is not detected by the ECM during the first few seconds of engine cranking.
2. The proper pulse signal from the crankshaft position sensor (POS) is not sent to ECM while the engine is running.
3. The crankshaft position sensor (POS) signal is not in the normal pattern during engine running.

2017 Mazda:

There is no CKP sensor signal input while the exhaust camshaft rotates 5 times. The CKP sensor input signal pattern, received while the crankshaft rotates 10 times , is incorrect.

2007 Jeep Wrangler:

No CKP signal is present during engine cranking, and at least 8 camshaft position sensor signals have occurred.

2016 Chevy Silverado:

1. Crankshaft Position Sensor = No Signal — For greater than 4 s
2. Crankshaft Position Sensor = No Signal — For greater than 1 s
3. Crankshaft Position Sensor = No Signal — During 2 engine revolutions.

As you parse these parameters, it becomes evident that the criteria, while slightly different, aren’t all that difficult to understand for each vehicle.

In some vehicles, the CKP signal may also be used as an input for additional functions, such as fuel delivery, variable valve timing, and the tachometer.   

P0335 on Some Infiniti Vehicles

Code P0335 may appear on some Infiniti vehicles. On a 2007 Infiniti M45 4.5L V8, for example, this DTC is set when the following conditions are detected:

•  The crankshaft position sensor (POS) signal is not detected by the ECM during the first few seconds of engine cranking.
• The proper pulse signal from the crankshaft position sensor (POS) is not sent to ECM while the engine is running.
• The crankshaft position sensor (POS) signal is not in the normal pattern during engine running.

Common issues like a defective crankshaft position sensor and open or shorted sensor circuit can cause this DTC on some Infiniti vehicles.

What are the Possible Causes of the P0335 Code?

A number of issues can trigger a P0335. Here are some of the most common causes of this error code:

• Defective crankshaft position sensor
• Damaged or broken reluctor ring
• Circuit issues, such as damaged wiring and loose connections 
• Issues with the PCM, such as software in need of an update 

Take note that, while this list is already quite extensive, the P0335 code can appear due to other potential causes. 

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0335 Code?

The symptoms that your car could experience with the trouble code P0335 may vary. Below are some of the most common signs that could accompany this code: 

• Check Engine Light is on
• Engine stalls or hesitates 
• Engine bucks or stumbles at road speed
• Hard starting or no-start
• Engine misfire/rough running 

How to Diagnose the P0335 Code

As previously discussed, there are a lot of potential causes for a P0335. This is why diagnosing the exact issue that’s causing this OBD-II code can be a challenge.

Check out the videos below to get an idea of how to troubleshoot this code on your own:

How to Fix the P0335 Code

Disclaimer: Due to the wide variability in vehicle makes and models, as well as other factors, the following information must not be construed as complete or the only definitive way to address a particular issue. Instead, the following content merely attempts to give you a better idea of what a do-it-yourself approach to the issue might involve. You are encouraged to find more technical resources regarding the subject or take your vehicle to a professional technician for the best results.

As with most of the other OBD-II codes, there is no single universal fix for the P0335 code. There are a multitude of possible causes for a code to appear, and you’ll have to identify the exact underlying issues before you can proceed to find a fix.

The most common and reliable fixes include replacing your vehicle’s crankshaft position sensor, as well as changing the timing belt or chain. However, do not try this if you aren’t familiar with how to do the job.

While it is possible to entrust such fixes to a mechanic, it’s also possible to carry out these repairs yourself if you have the time, patience, tools, and gumption, particularly when it comes to replacing the timing belt or chain.

Doing so could potentially save you a lot of money since you won’t have to pay a professional for labor costs. However, you’ll also need to be extra careful as one misstep could spell disastrous consequences for your vehicle.

If you’re keen on learning how to fix a P0335 code yourself, or if you’re simply curious about the process, be sure to read these simple step-by-step guides.

Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor

For those of you who want to replace your vehicle’s crankshaft position sensor, here’s a handy guide, but you can also find a good video that shows somebody replacing the crank sensor for your specific vehicle, because replacing the CKP sensor isn’t the same on every vehicle. It’s best to either find a video or look for specific instructions online. Don’t attempt this without doing one or both.

1. Park your vehicle on a flat and even surface away from other vehicles.

2. Turn off the car battery and disconnect it.

3. Using the video for your vehicle or the material you found online, find your vehicle’s crankshaft position sensor. The location obviously varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

4. Release the electrical connector attached to the crankshaft position sensor.

5. Remove the mount bolt that retains the sensor.

6. Uninstall the crankshaft position sensor and remove it.

7. Mount and install the new crankshaft position sensor. Note any special procedures.

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

Pro Tip: Some sensors have a cardboard spacer that provides the proper sensor air gap and is swept away when the vehicle is started.

8. Reinstall any parts you removed to reach the sensor.

9. Reconnect the car battery.

10. Start the engine.

11. Give your vehicle a test drive.

Crankshaft position sensor prices range from $3 all the way to $700, excluding labor costs. Replacing a crankshaft position sensor is costly and requires a lot of skill, but it’s also one of the most reliable ways to fix code P0335.

Replace the Timing Belt

If you want to know how to replace a timing belt by yourself, here’s a general guide. Again, before you start, gather all the information you can from a video and online sources on exactly how to do this job. These steps are very general to give you an idea of what’s involved and can’t be used on every vehicle.

1. Park your vehicle on a flat and even surface away from other vehicles.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Remove the accessories blocking access to the timing belt like the alternator belt, alternator, power steering pump, and valve cover assembly. The information you found online will be useful for this step.
4. Remove the distributor cap (if equipped, so you can identify the firing position of cylinder 1).
5. Align the timing marks of your vehicle’s engine until the crankshaft pulley matches up with the 0° mark on the timing scale with the number 1 piston at TDC compression.
6. Since the harmonic pulley is virtually always in the way of the timing belt, you’ll need to remove it usually with special tools.
7. Remove the timing cover by unscrewing the bolts that keep it secure and locked in place.
8. Loosen the mounting bolts that hold the belt tensioner, but don’t remove them.
9. Inspect the tensioner pulley for any signs of damage. If it’s cracked or broken, replace it immediately.
10. Remove the timing belt.
11. Install the new timing belt.
12. Reinstall all the different parts and bolts you removed to access the timing belt.
13. Give your vehicle a test run.

Bear in mind that this process requires a great deal of expertise. If you aren’t confident in your mechanical skills, it might be safer and smarter to leave it to a professional. The cost of a timing belt ranges from $2 to $200.

Other Notes About P0335

You shouldn’t continue to drive your vehicle once it triggers this code. An issue with the CKP can cause your vehicle to stall—and that can be dangerous. 

Get your car diagnosed immediately if you run into this trouble code (or the related trouble codes P0336, P0337, P0338, etc.).

Where to Get a New Crankshaft Position Sensor for Your Vehicle

A damaged crankshaft position sensor is enough to keep your daily driver cooped up in the garage, so don’t ignore it, especially if it’s what triggered code P0335. The good news is that CarParts.com can fix that problem for you in a jiffy.

Say goodbye to misfires, hard starts, and stalling issues when you shop for a top-notch crankshaft position sensor from us. We have a great selection of crankshaft position sensor replacements sourced from the most reputable aftermarket brands today.

On hand and ready to ship, our crankshaft position sensors passed stringent testing procedures, ensuring maximum durability and dependability.

Find the right crankshaft position sensor for your ride by entering its year, make, and model into our vehicle selector. This will narrow down the catalog to compatible products for your daily driver. You can also use the search filters to find a crankshaft position sensor according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.

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Products Mentioned in this Guide

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