Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
Engine · Timing
The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) is failing. This sensor is fundamental — the PCM cannot determine when to fire injectors or ignition without it.
- Failed crankshaft position sensorMost common
- Damaged tone ring teethCommon
- Wiring harness damageCommon
Vehicles most commonly affected by P0335
Crankshaft position sensor failures are most commonly reported on Chevrolet and GMC trucks with LS engines (3x CKP sensor failure is well-documented), Honda Accord and Civic (3rd-generation K-series engines), Dodge vehicles with Chrysler 2.7L V6 (known CKP sensor wiring issue), and BMW 3 Series (N52 engine CKP failures around 80,000 miles).
Real-world P0335 diagnosis scenario
A 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 5.3L starts normally one morning, then dies suddenly while driving at 55 mph and will not restart. P0335 is stored. The CKP sensor has a common failure mode on GM LS engines where the reluctor wheel (a 58-tooth wheel on the crankshaft) accumulates metal debris on the sensor tip over time. Cleaning the sensor tip and replacing the sensor ($45–$120 for the part) restores operation. If the reluctor wheel itself is damaged, a more extensive repair is required.
On GM LS-series engines, before replacing the CKP sensor, use a scanner to check if the sensor is reading any signal at all during cranking (it will show a flat line vs. the expected pulse pattern). Also inspect the 3-pin connector — GM CKP connector corrosion is a common cause of intermittent P0335 before full sensor failure.
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Frequently asked questions about P0335
What does P0335 mean?
The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) is failing. This sensor is fundamental — the PCM cannot determine when to fire injectors or ignition without it.
Is P0335 serious?
Car may not start or may stall — fix immediately.
How much does it cost to fix P0335?
Repair costs for P0335 range from $100 – $300 depending on the root cause and your vehicle.
Can I drive with P0335?
No — this code indicates a serious issue. Stop driving and have the vehicle inspected immediately.
Can my car start with P0335?
Sometimes. P0335 can be intermittent — the car starts on some attempts and fails on others. When the CKP sensor fails completely, the engine will not start because the PCM cannot determine when to fire injectors or ignition. If your car suddenly won't start and P0335 is stored, the sensor has likely failed completely.
Is P0335 the same as P0336?
P0335 means the CKP sensor circuit has no signal or is out of range. P0336 means the sensor is producing a signal but the number of pulses per revolution is incorrect — often caused by a damaged reluctor wheel rather than a bad sensor.
How urgent is P0335?
High urgency. A failing CKP sensor can cause the engine to stall without warning at any speed. Do not drive on the highway with P0335 stored — arrange a shop visit within 24 hours.