The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) has a circuit fault. This sensor is essential for engine starting and timing.
SeverityCritical
CategorySensors
Est. Repair Cost$100–$400
Code TypePowertrain
DIY RepairYes
DifficultyIntermediate
⚡ Common Causes
›Faulty crankshaft position sensor
›Damaged wiring or connector
›Reluctor wheel damage
›Metal debris on sensor
⚠️ Symptoms
›Engine cranks but will not start
›Stalling
›Intermittent no-start
›Check engine light
›Hard start
✅ How to Fix — Step by Step
Step 1:Check sensor wiring and connector
Step 2:Clean sensor tip of metal debris
Step 3:Test sensor resistance
Step 4:Replace crankshaft position sensor
Step 5:Check reluctor wheel for missing teeth
🔧 Diagnostic Tools Required
✔OBD-II Diagnostic Scanner
✔Digital Multimeter
✔Basic Hand Tools
✔Flashlight
✔Vehicle Service Manual
Using the correct diagnostic tools helps identify the root cause of P0335 before replacing parts unnecessarily. Always confirm the fault using live data and manufacturer-recommended diagnostic procedures.
🚗 Vehicles Commonly Reporting P0335
Chevrolet MalibuFord FocusChrysler 300Jeep Grand CherokeeNissan AltimaHonda Odyssey
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
✘Replacing the sensor without checking the wiring harness for chafing or corrosion first
✘Not inspecting the reluctor wheel for broken or damaged teeth, a less common but real cause
✘Overlooking aftermarket electrical accessories (like a poorly grounded stereo) as a source of interference
✘Treating an intermittent no-start as random when it is actually a heat-related sensor failure
📋 Technical Service Bulletins
Some manufacturers have TSBs for updated crankshaft sensor part numbers with improved heat tolerance, since sensor failure from underhood heat cycling is a well-documented pattern.
🏭 Manufacturer-Specific Notes
Chrysler/Jeep P0335
2.7L and 3.5L Chrysler/Jeep V6 engines have a well-known history of CKP sensor failure, often intermittent and heat-related — a hot-engine no-start with this code is a classic symptom.
Ford P0335
On Ford four-cylinder engines, wiring harness damage near the sensor from age and heat exposure is a more common cause than sensor failure itself.
Honda P0335
Honda V6 minivans and SUVs rarely see CKP sensor failure at low mileage — if this appears early, suspect a wiring or connector issue before the sensor itself.
🎓 Expert Tip: If the no-start is intermittent and worse when the engine is hot, suspect the crankshaft sensor itself rather than wiring — heat-related sensor failure is a well-documented pattern on several V6 engine families.
💡 Pro Tip: A failing CKP sensor often causes intermittent no-start when hot — the engine starts fine when cold.
Repair Cost Estimate
Full Repair Estimate
$100–$400
DIY Possible?
YES
Severity
Critical
Diagnosis Time
25–45 minutes
Repair Time
30–90 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does OBD2 code P0335 mean?+
P0335 stands for Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction. The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) has a circuit fault. This sensor is essential for engine starting and timing.
What causes code P0335?+
Faulty crankshaft position sensor; Damaged wiring or connector; Reluctor wheel damage; Metal debris on sensor
How do I fix code P0335?+
Check sensor wiring and connector; Clean sensor tip of metal debris; Test sensor resistance; Replace crankshaft position sensor; Check reluctor wheel for missing teeth
How much does it cost to fix P0335?+
Estimated repair cost for P0335 is $100–$400.
Is P0335 DIY-friendly?+
Yes — P0335 is generally DIY-friendly with basic tools.
References
SAE J1979 — E/E Diagnostic Test Modes (OBD-II communication standard)
ISO 15031 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics
Vehicle manufacturer service manual (consult your specific make and model)
