P0335 Code: Honda Accord (2018-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0335 Diagnostic Guide for 2018-2023 Honda Accord (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction)

Important data note (data limitations)

• The provided NHTSA data for 2018-2023 Honda Accord shows no owner complaints specifically referencing P0335, and no recalls identified for this make/model/year in the dataset you supplied.
• No recalls found in NHTSA database
• Because the dataset provides no complaint frequency or recall history for P0335 on this model, this guide relies on standard automotive diagnostic knowledge for P0335 plus Honda-specific layout/common failure modes. If you have other diagnostic sources or live data from your vehicle that indicate different behavior, follow those findings as needed.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0335
• Description: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (often referred to as CKP Sensor A Circuit Malfunction)
• What it does: The crankshaft position sensor provides the engine control unit (ECU) with a precise crankshaft rotation reference signal. The ECU uses this signal to synchronize spark timing and fuel injection. When the CKP circuit is faulty, the ECU cannot reliably determine the engine speed and position, which can prevent the engine from starting or cause misfires, stalling, or erratic idle.
• Severity: High. Potential no-start, stalling, or unpredictable engine performance. In some situations, the vehicle may run but with reduced reliability, or the ECU may disable certain systems to protect itself. For a steering/driveable vehicle, this can create a roadside safety risk.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA ACCORD

• Faulty crankshaft position sensor itself (A-sensor)
• Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring or connector to the CKP sensor (pins loose, bent, or partially disconnected)
• Poor or dirty sensor connector terminals (oxidation, corrosion)
• Oil or coolant intrusion around the sensor area or contaminated harness
• Mechanical timing issues (timing chain/belt wear, jumping timing) or a misaligned reluctor ring, causing loss of a valid CKP signal
• ECU (PCM) grounding or power supply issue (less common)
• Wiring harness routing damage (chafing near belts, heat shields, or moving engine components)
• Intermittent faults (e.g., loose connector, intermittent wiring damage)
  Note: On Honda 1.5L/2.0L engines used in Accords from these years, the CKP sensor is a common failure point and often presents as intermittent or hard no-start conditions.

SYMPTOMS

• Engine cranks but does not start, or extremely hard/no start
• Stalling while idling or while driving, sometimes restarting after a few minutes
• Rough idle or surging when the engine does run
• Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated with P0335
• Possible misfire indications or uneven power delivery
• No obvious mechanical damage; sometimes you’ll see related or follow-on codes (P0336, P0337, etc.)

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Work safely. If you’re not comfortable with electrical diagnostics, seek a qualified technician.

A. Confirm and scope

• Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0335 and note any freeze-frame data and any related codes (P0336, P0338, P0339, P0337, etc.).
• Check for additional fault codes that may indicate related wiring or sensor issues.

B. Visual inspection

• Inspect CKP sensor and its wiring harness and connector for obvious damage, loose pins, corrosion, oil or coolant leaks, and signs of heat or abrasion.
• Inspect the area around the sensor for oil leaks, debris, or contamination that could affect sensing.
• Check harness routing for pinching, rubbing, or contact with moving parts.

C. Electrical checks (circuit integrity)

• With ignition OFF, disconnect the CKP sensor connector, and inspect pins for corrosion or bent pins.
• Check continuity of the CKP sensor ground circuit from the ECU/PCM side and sensor side to ensure a solid ground path.
• Check the reference voltage (Vref) circuit to the CKP sensor using a multimeter. On most vehicles, the ECU supplies a 5V reference to the CKP sensor. With ignition ON, pin that carries Vref should read approximately 5V at the sensor or at the connector pin (instrument your test readings per service manual if available).
• Check the signal circuit (the CKP signal line) for shorts to ground or to battery voltage, and for intermittent connections. Look for a clean, stable signal line when cranking.

D. Loose/wiggle test

• While cranking (or with the engine running if possible), gently wiggle the CKP sensor housing and the wiring harness at the connector and along the path to the ECU. Observe the scanner live data for any intermittent loss or changes in the CKP signal. An intermittent fault often localizes to a connector or wiring problem.

E. Signal validation (live data or oscilloscope)

• If you have live data capability or an oscilloscope, monitor the CKP signal while cranking and at idle. You should see a regular CKP pulse train that corresponds to engine RPM. A missing signal, erratic pulse timing, or a very weak/dirty waveform indicates a faulty CKP sensor or wiring issue.
• If the CKP signal is present but the ECU still logs P0335, consider the possibility of a bad ECU or an internal PCM fault (rare).

F. Mechanical checks

• If electrical checks fail to locate a fault, consider mechanical causes: verify engine timing (timing belt/chain alignment and tension, cam/crank timing marks) and crank reluctor ring condition. A mis-timed engine can disrupt the CKP signal. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms or codes.

G. Sensor replacement decision point

• If the CKP sensor tests fail or the wiring tests fail (and no other known causes), plan for CKP sensor replacement, along with checking/repairing the wiring harness and connector as needed.

H. Post-repair verification

• Clear codes and run the engine to verify that P0335 does not return. Re-check for related codes and perform another test drive to confirm stable operation.

RELATED CODES

• P0335 – Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (primary)
• P0336 – Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
• P0337 – Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
• P0338 – Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
• P0339 – Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Signals Not Found (or similar intermittent variants)
  Note: These related codes indicate varying degrees of CKP circuit issues or intermittent symptoms and are useful for narrowing down the fault when P0335 appears.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices vary by region, labor rate, and whether you use OEM versus aftermarket parts. The ranges below are typical and should be treated as ballpark estimates.

A. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) replacement

• Parts: CKP sensor typically $25–$120 (OEM or aftermarket; Honda OEM may be on the higher end)
• Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours depending on accessibility (roughly $85–$170 per hour in many markets)
• Typical total repair cost: approximately $110–$350
• Notes: If the sensor is stuck due to oil contamination or difficult removal, labor may be at the higher end.

B. Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement

• Parts: Wire repair materials or a new connector kit; typically $10–$50 for basic harness repair
• Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours (often included in CKP replacement if done together)
• Typical total repair cost: $60–$240
• Notes: If the harness is damaged extensively or multiple circuits are affected, costs can rise.

C. Additional related work (when timing issues are suspected or found)

• Timing chain/belt service or tensioner replacement (if timing issue is found)
• Parts: Varies widely; could be $100–$400 for parts alone
• Labor: 1–3 hours or more depending on engine configuration
• Typical total cost: $500–$1500 or more in severe cases
• Notes: This is not a typical first fix for CKP faults but may be necessary if timing issues are confirmed.

D. ECU/PCM replacement (rare)

• Parts: $300–$1200
• Labor: 1–3 hours
• Typical total cost: $600–$1800
• Notes: Only consider if a confirmed ECU fault is suspected after exhaustive checking.

DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY feasibility: Moderate. If you’re comfortable with electrical diagnostics, using a multimeter, a scan tool with live data, and possibly an oscilloscope, you can perform many of the checks listed above. Replacing a CKP sensor is typically DIY-friendly if you can access the sensor and connector without removing major components.
• When to go pro: If you don’t have reliable electrical diagnostic tools, cannot reliably identify intermittent faults, or if you suspect timing issues or ECU faults, a professional technician with proper diagnostic equipment is recommended.
• Safety: Disconnect the battery before performing sensor work to avoid shorts. If you’re unfamiliar with handling engine electricals, seek professional help.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance: Adhere to Honda’s recommended service schedule; fix oil leaks promptly to avoid contaminating sensor areas.
• Wiring care: Keep the CKP sensor wiring away from hot surfaces, oil leaks, and moving parts. Use loom or protective tubing where needed.
• Connector care: Ensure the CKP connector remains clean and tight. Use dielectric grease on the connector to reduce corrosion if appropriate.
• Protect against moisture/contaminants: Ensure grommets and seals around the engine bay stay intact to minimize water intrusion into sensor areas.
• Timely ignition/fuel system maintenance: Maintain ignition components and fuel pumps to ensure reliable engine operation; severe misfires or fuel quality problems can complicate CKP diagnostics.
• If you work on fuel and ignition systems, handle with care to avoid damaging the CKP sensor wiring or sensor itself.

Summary

• P0335 on a 2018-2023 Honda Accord indicates a Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction, a high-severity fault that can cause no-start, stalling, or rough running.
• Common causes include a faulty CKP sensor, wiring/connectors problems, oil contamination, or, less commonly, timing/ECU issues.
• Diagnostic steps focus on confirming the fault with live data, inspecting wiring and connectors, checking power/ground and reference voltage, testing the CKP signal, and considering mechanical timing checks if electrical tests fail.
• Repair options center on CKP sensor replacement and wiring repair; costs in 2025 dollars generally range from about $110 to $350 for sensor replacement (more with wiring work or timing service).
• DIY is feasible for those comfortable with electrical diagnostics; otherwise, a professional mechanic is recommended.
• Prevention centers on protecting wiring/connectors, maintaining clean sensor areas, and addressing leaks promptly.

If you’d like, I can tailor this guide to your exact Accord engine type (1.5T vs 2.0T) and provide a step-by-step checklist with suggested test tools (specific voltages, continuity ranges, and oscilloscope Hire can vary by model).