P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
When you get in your vehicle to head to work in the morning, what is the first thing running through your mind? Is it the positioning of your crankshaft? Probably not. However, the crankshaft plays a vital role in the operation of your vehicle's engine, converting linear energy into rotational energy. The positioning of this device is pivotal to the proper alignment and operation of the engine’s pistons, which is why OBD-II equipped vehicles use a crankshaft position sensor to relay information to the powertrain control module, allowing car owners to know when something is wrong. Drivers are typically alerted by an error code, which leads to the question, “how do I fix trouble code P0335?”
What Does the Code P0335 Mean?
This is a fairly common question among vehicle owners who own a car with an OBD-II equipped vehicle. Essentially, this code refers to an issue in the crankshaft location or its relays. The crankshaft position sensor is a stationary piece, but it works with the reluctor ring to determine positioning and voltage. When something occurs to interrupt the transference of signals, you will likely end up receiving an error code. However, there are many reasons for this message to occur. You do not have to jump to the conclusion that something is wrong with your crankshaft, P0335 only refers to an error in the area and the technology associated with the vehicle’s crankshaft.
Common Causes of P0335
The check engine light often accompanies P0335. However, figuring out the cause is not always the easiest thing to do because there are numerous possibilities. For example, your car could have a damaged crankshaft sensor. Another possibility is a failed Powertrain control module. However, a variety of sensors output issues could also be the cause of the error code along with a failed crank sensor. Beyond the computer components, your vehicle could have a broken timing belt or a damage reluctor ring. It is not uncommon for these rings to sustain damage to their teeth. Also, a reluctor ring can experience a sheared-off keyway. Any of these issues or a combination of them can cause the P0335 code and the ignition of the check engine light.
Potential Symptoms of P0335
The symptoms that are likely to occur before the error code differ based on your vehicle and whether the crank sensor is used for both misfire detection and spark timing. If used only for detecting misfires, then the malfunction indicator lamp might illuminate. However, the car may have to run through several cycles before the MIL comes on. Although, if your vehicle uses the crank sensor to check for misfires and spark timing, then it is possible that your car might not start. Therefore, the typical symptoms of a P0335 code are a misfire, MIL illumination, or failure to start.
Possible Solutions
When attempting to resolve the issue of this error code, you will first need to determine if there is an RPM signal when the car is running. You can use a scan tool for this. If there is no reading, then you can check the crank sensor for any sign of damage and make repairs as necessary. If the sensor looks fine, then you should contact an experienced mechanic to use a scope and assess the damage. You can also check for any loose wiring or connections.
The crankshaft is a critical component of the engine. While the OBD-II scanner error code P0335 problem does relate to the crankshaft, the code refers more to the electrical components and modules, rather than the crank itself. Therefore, use a scan tool and visually inspect the parts, but if the problem is not immediately apparent, then reach out to an experienced mechanic with a scope tool. You can get the parts you need at your local AutoZone Store. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.
