Diagnostic guide: P0335 for 2022–2024 Honda Civic
Data notice:
- Owner complaints: No NHTSA complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination.
- Recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database.
- No recalls found in NHTSA database (this exact phrase for recals applies per data).
- The guide below uses general automotive knowledge for technical explanations and references the data limits stated above.
CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY
- Code: P0335
- Description (typical): Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Honda Civic context: sensor circuit to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for the crankshaft position signal, often “Bank 1” or sensor A in many OBD-II schemes).
- What it means for the engine:
- The PCM is not receiving a valid crankshaft position signal, which is essential for proper ignition timing and fuel injection.
- Symptoms can range from difficult or no-start to stalling, misfires, or limp-mode operation.
- Severity:
- Moderate to high. Without a reliable crank signal, the engine cannot reliably run. In many cases you’ll see a no-start or stalling condition; in others, you’ll get rough running with a Check Engine Light.
- Prolonged driving with a faulty signal can risk catalyst damage or unnecessary cylinder misfires. Treat as a real diagnostic fault and address promptly.
COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CIVIC
- Faulty or failing crankshaft position sensor (CPS) itself.
- Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring harness to the CPS; poor connections or pin damage.
- Faulty or loose sensor connector (lock tab damaged or not seated).
- Oil leaks or oil contamination around the sensor (sensor area contaminated by oil, coolant, or debris).
- Oil level/pressure issues causing sensor exposure to oil or heat.
- Mechanical timing issues (timing chain/belt, tensioner, or reluctor ring damage) causing improper or inconsistent crank signal.
- Grounding or 5-volt reference problems in the PCM/engine electrical system.
- PCM/ECU fault or software glitch (less common, but possible in some vehicles after software updates or upgrades).
- External factors: water intrusion, wiring harness heat exposure, or rodent damage in wiring.
SYMPTOMS
- Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated with P0335 stored.
- Hard-start, crank-but-no-start, or extended cranking before engine starts.
- Engine stalls while running or hesitates/feels rough when idling.
- Misfires, rough idle, or reduced power/limp-mode behavior.
- In some cases, minimal symptoms with intermittent signal may produce sporadic starts or runs.
- No obvious mechanical failure visible from the outside; diagnosis often requires live data.
DIAGNOSTIC STEPS
Note: Follow these steps in order and document data. Use a reputable OBD-II scanner; a decent scope or scan tool with live data is highly helpful.
Step 0: Confirm and characterize
- Retrieve DTCs with the vehicle in “on” position but not running, or with the engine running if possible.
- Record freeze-frame data: engine speed, load, RPM, and sensor readings at the time of DTC set.
- Check for related codes (P0336, P0337, P0338, P0339, etc.) to gauge circuit integrity.
Step 1: Visual inspection
- Inspect the CPS connector and wiring harness for damage, corrosion, oil exposure, or pin bend/push-in damage.
- Check for oil leaks around the CPS mounting area; fix leaks as needed before re-testing.
- Ensure the sensor is properly mounted and not physically damaged.
Step 2: Electrical checks (PCM reference and ground)
- With the ignition ON (not running), use a multimeter to verify:
- 5-volt reference accuracy at the CPS connector (refer to service manual for exact pin).
- Battery power at the CPS supply pin (if applicable).
- Ground continuity from the CPS harness to engine block/ground point.
- A poor ground or flaky 5V reference can mimic or cause a P0335 fault.
- With the ignition ON (not running), use a multimeter to verify:
Step 3: Sensor signal test
- With the engine cranking or running (if safe), monitor the CPS signal on your scan tool or oscilloscope.
- A healthy CPS should show a periodic, stable waveform synchronized with crank speed. The exact waveform shape varies by vehicle, so compare to the service manual or a known-good reference for the Civic.
- If the signal is flat, inconsistent, or missing, suspect the CPS, wiring, or PCM input.
Step 4: Sensor resistance and integrity checks
- Some CPS sensors are Hall-effect devices; resistance specs vary by part and are not always published. If you can obtain the Honda-specific service data, compare resistance/characteristics to spec.
- Look for intermittent contact by wiggling the wiring harness while monitoring the signal (careful to avoid shorting).
Step 5: Inspect mechanical timing components (if indicated)
- If the CPS and wiring test good but the signal is still failing, inspect the timing chain/belt, tensioners, and reluctor ring for wear or damage.
- A misaligned or damaged reluctor ring will produce improper crank signals even if the sensor is fine.
Step 6: Re-test after service
- If replacing the CPS, clear codes, and perform a road test or idle test to confirm the issue is resolved.
- Re-check for DTCs after a number of driving cycles.
Step 7: PCM considerations
- If all wiring and sensor checks pass and the PCM still reports P0335, consider PCM-related issues or software glitches. This is a less common cause and typically a last-resort consideration after excluding sensor and wiring faults.
RELATED CODES
- P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (primary code)
- Related crankshaft/cam codes in the same family (definitions can vary by manufacturer and model):
- P0336 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
- P0337 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit No Signal
- P0338 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
- P0339 Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit (or related crank sensor codes in some systems)
- Note: Exact definitions may vary by Honda service data; the listed codes are commonly associated with crank/CPS circuit issues.
REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)
Prices vary by region, shop, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. The amounts below are typical ranges in the U.S. for 2025 and should be treated as estimates.
Option A — Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) replacement
- Parts: $25–$150 (aftermarket) or $100–$180 (OEM/Dealer Honda CPS)
- Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
- Typical total: $150–$350
- Notes: This is the most common fix if the wiring checks out and the sensor tests fail.
Option B — CPS wiring harness/connector repair or replacement
- Parts: $20–$100 (connector or short harness sections)
- Labor: 1–2 hours
- Typical total: $150–$500
- Notes: Necessary if wiring is damaged, corroded, or connector is not seating properly.
Option C — PCM/ECU replacement or reprogramming
- Parts: $250–$600 (rebuild or used replacement) or $400–$900 (new OEM)
- Labor: 1–2 hours (plus programming time if required)
- Typical total: $500–$1,200
- Notes: Consider only after ruling out sensor and harness faults; PCM faults are less common.
Option D — Timing chain/belt kit, tensioners, or related timing components (if mechanical timing is suspected)
- Parts: $200–$600
- Labor: 3–6 hours
- Typical total: $800–$1,800
- Notes: This is a major repair. Only pursued if timing issues are confirmed through mechanical inspection.
Option E — Oil leaks or contamination remediation (if contributing to sensor contamination)
- Parts: Depends on leak source; gaskets/seals typically $20–$100
- Labor: 1–3 hours
- Typical total: $100–$800 (depending on location and leak source)
- Notes: Fixing root cause reduces reoccurrence risk of CPS faults.
Important data note: No recalls found in NHTSA database (per the provided data).
DIY VS PROFESSIONAL
DIY feasibility:
- CPS replacement is a doable task for a mechanically inclined DIYer with basic hand tools, a car jack/stands, and a good diagnostic scanner.
- Access location on 2022–2024 Civics varies by engine (potentially near the front of the engine block); some models allow relatively straightforward access, others may require more extensive removal of nearby components.
- Pros: Lower parts cost, learning experience, quicker if you have the tools.
- Cons/risks: Incorrect wiring, sensor alignment, or failure to address underlying wiring issues can cause repeated failures. If the CPS is replaced but the underlying wiring or timing issue is not fixed, you’ll still have problems. Working around an engine timing area demands careful attention to safety and timing marks.
When to go pro:
- If you don’t have the right tools (scope to view the CPS waveform, or the confidence to test references and grounds).
- If the CPS is heavily integrated behind others or if timing components need inspection.
- If the fault persists after a CPS replacement and wiring check.
- If you suspect timing chain/belt issues or a PCM problem.
- Always ensure proper locking of timing when reassembling if timing components are involved.
Typical workflow for a DIY swap:
- Gather OEM or reputable aftermarket CPS, electrical contact cleaner, and basic hand tools.
- Disconnect battery, remove necessary components, replace CPS, clean connector pins, apply dielectric grease, and ensure a secure harness.
- Reconnect battery, clear codes, and perform engine start/run test and road test.
- Re-scan to confirm no new codes.
PREVENTION
- Regular maintenance and inspection
- Keep engine oil clean and at proper level; oil leaks near the sensor should be addressed promptly to prevent contamination of the CPS area.
- Periodically inspect the CPS connector, wires, and loom for signs of wear, chafing, or corrosion; secure harnesses away from hot surfaces and moving parts.
- Use quality parts
- When replacing sensors or harnesses, use OEM or reputable aftermarket parts to minimize compatibility and reliability issues.
- Protect against contamination
- Fix leaks (oil, coolant) promptly; avoid long-term exposure of the CPS area to contaminants.
- Software updates
- If your Civic dealer issues a software update or bulletin related to crank sensor performance, consider applying it after diagnosing hardware integrity.
Additional data and notes
- The provided data indicate no owner complaints or recalls in the NHTSA database for this specific model/year/issue combination within the supplied dataset. This means there are no official recalls or complaint counts to reference for this case in the given data. However, P0335 is a widely recognized fault code on many vehicles, and real-world experience with Civics may show occurrences outside this dataset. Always combine the vehicle’s symptoms with current service information and testing.
- For most 2022–2024 Honda Civics, the CPS is a common failure point in the crank/CPS circuit family. The diagnostic approach above emphasizes validating sensor function and electrical integrity before pursuing more invasive timing-related repairs.
- If you have access to Honda service documentation (TSBs or service bulletins) or a professional-grade scan tool, you may find model-year-specific steps or notes. The guide above centers on generic, widely applicable diagnostic logic plus the known P0335 fault.
If you’d like, I can tailor this guide to your exact Civic trim (engine type, 1.5L turbo vs 2.0L), or help you create a printable checklist you can use at the shop or in your driveway.