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Critical SeverityDo Not Drive

What does P0335 mean?

Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction

Direct Answer

P0335 means the ECM is not receiving a valid signal from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP). The CKP tells the ECM exactly where each piston is in its cycle — without this signal, the ECM cannot calculate correct ignition timing or fuel injection timing, and the engine may not start at all.

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Engine stalls intermittently or without warning
  • Hard starting or no start
  • Engine cranks but does not fire
  • Rough running and misfires

Common Causes

  • 01Failed crankshaft position sensor
  • 02Damaged CKP sensor wiring or connector
  • 03Damaged tone ring (reluctor wheel) on the crankshaft
  • 04Excessive air gap between sensor and tone ring
  • 05ECM fault (rare)

How to Fix P0335

1

Inspect the sensor wiring and connector

Corrosion, chafed wires, or a loose connector are common causes. Clean the connector with electrical contact cleaner and inspect insulation.

2

Check sensor air gap

The sensor must be the correct distance from the tone ring. On some vehicles, shims adjust this gap. Incorrect gap causes weak or intermittent signal.

3

Replace the crankshaft position sensor

This is a relatively straightforward replacement on most engines — the sensor bolts into the block near the crankshaft. Cost is low; most of the expense is labor on difficult-access locations.

4

Inspect the tone ring

A damaged or corroded reluctor wheel causes intermittent signal loss. Inspect through the sensor opening with a light.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bad crankshaft sensor prevent my car from starting?

Yes. The ECM needs crankshaft position data to fire injectors and spark plugs in sync with piston position. Without a valid CKP signal, the engine will crank but not start.

Can I drive with P0335?

No. A failing CKP sensor can cause sudden stalling at highway speed with no warning, which is a serious safety risk. Address this immediately.

Estimated Repair Cost

$50–$500

Sensor: $20–$80. Labor: $100–$400 depending on location.

Safe to Drive?

No — avoid driving

Do not drive. The engine can stall without warning, which is dangerous at speed.

Related Codes

P0336P0339P0016P0340

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