P0335 Code Meaning and Next Steps

First checks take 10 to 20 minutes for the first checks. No special tools are usually needed for the first checks.

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.

If the light is steady and the vehicle still drives normally: Maybe, but only for a very short distance if the engine still runs smoothly.

What to check first

Step-by-step checks

1
Free - no tools
Confirm whether the engine cranks normally but will not start, or starts and then stalls again
2
Free - no tools
Inspect the crank sensor connector and harness for heat damage, chafing, or oil contamination
3
Basic tool needed
If scan data is available, see whether engine speed stays at zero while cranking
4
Basic tool needed
Check whether recent timing or transmission work may have disturbed the sensor or trigger path
5
Basic tool needed
A tachometer that drops out can point to the speed-signal side

If the code returns

-If there is no engine-speed signal at all, the sensor or its power/ground side becomes the main suspect.
-If the signal comes and goes, the wiring or mounting side is likely more useful than a generic sensor replacement.
-If the engine starts after a repair, clear and retest before moving on.

Background

What this code means

P0335 is a generic OBD-II crankshaft-speed or engine-speed input code for crankshaft position sensor A.

This is the classic crank sensor circuit code, so the ECU may lose the main engine-speed reference needed to start and run cleanly.

A no-start, sudden stall, or crank-no-start condition is common when the crank signal fails.

Diagnosis

Common causes

Most common

Failed crank sensor

The ECU loses the primary engine-speed reference.

Common

Open circuit or bad connector

A broken wire or loose plug can make the signal disappear.

Common

Trigger wheel damage

A damaged reluctor or tone ring can prevent a usable signal.

Possible

Oil or heat damage

Contamination or heat can kill the sensor or connector.

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

PartTypical costNotes

Crankshaft position sensor$40-$180Most relevant when the signal is truly missing.

Connector pigtail repair$15-$90Relevant if the connector is open or damaged.

Trigger wheel or reluctor repair$100-$600Worth checking if the mechanical trigger path is damaged.

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.

P0322

P0322 usually means the engine-speed input signal is missing.

P0336

P0336 usually means the crankshaft position sensor A signal is out of normal range or performance.

Source notes

Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0335 was expanded around common crankshaft-position sensor circuit faults, including sensor failure, wiring issues, and trigger-wheel 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

P0335 - P0335 Usually Means the Crankshaft Position Sensor a Circuit Is Not Behaving Correctly