Can you keep driving?
Can you keep driving?
Stop driving if any of these apply
- !The engine stalls, cranks without starting, or cuts out repeatedly.
- !The tachometer drops out or the warning light flashes while driving.
What to check first
Step-by-step checks
- 1
Free - no tools
Confirm whether the engine cranks normally but never starts, because that often points straight at the speed signal
- 2
Free - no tools
Inspect the crank sensor connector, harness, and the area around the trigger wheel or tone ring
- 3
Basic tool needed
Check for blown fuses or obvious wiring damage before replacing the sensor
- 4
Basic tool needed
If scan data is available, see whether engine speed stays at zero while cranking
- 5
Basic tool needed
Do not overlook recent timing or transmission work that may have disturbed the trigger path
If the code returns
- -If no engine-speed signal is present at all, the sensor or its power/ground side becomes the main suspect.
- -If the signal comes and goes, heat or vibration likely matters more than the sensor face alone.
- -If the engine runs after a repair, clear and retest before moving on.
Background
What this code means
P0322 is a generic OBD-II crankshaft-speed or engine-speed input code for the ignition/distributor or engine speed input path.
This is the no-signal version of the engine-speed fault, so the ECU may not be receiving any usable reference while cranking or running.
A no-start, sudden stall, or crank-no-start condition is common when the speed signal disappears completely.
Diagnosis
Common causes
Failed crank sensor
The ECU loses the primary engine-speed reference.
Ignition module or pickup failure
On older systems the module can drop the signal entirely.
Open circuit or bad connector
A broken wire or loose plug can make the signal disappear.
Trigger wheel damage
A damaged reluctor or tone ring can prevent a usable signal.
Avoid these mistakes
What not to do
- xDo not keep cranking a no-start engine for a long time if the speed signal is missing.
- xDo not replace the ECU before checking the crank sensor, connector, and wiring.
Parts
Parts that may need replacing
See also
Related OBD codes
P0320
P0320 usually means the ignition or engine-speed input circuit is not behaving correctly.
P0321
P0321 usually means the engine-speed input signal is out of normal range or performance.
P0323
P0323 usually means the engine-speed input signal is intermittent.
P0335
P0335 usually means the crankshaft position sensor A circuit is not behaving correctly.
Source notes
Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0322 was expanded around common no-signal engine-speed faults, including crank sensor failure, ignition module issues, and wiring problems.
This guide is written as a generic multi-make reference, so bulletin history, sensor locations, and repair order can still change by manufacturer and engine family.
This is generic OBD-II guidance and should not override vehicle-specific service information. Exact diagnosis and repair steps vary by make, engine family, and model year.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-10
Reference: Open reference