P0335 Code: Toyota Corolla (2020-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database

Note on data limitations: The real-world NHTSA data provided here includes one owner complaint for P0401 on a 2020 Corolla and does not include any P0335 entries. The guide below for P0335 is based on general automotive diagnostic knowledge and Toyota-specific tendencies for 2020–2024 Corolla models, not on a dataset of P0335 complaints. If you have a P0335 in your vehicle, use this as a diagnostic framework and corroborate findings with your own scan data and service manual.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0335
• Full name: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit
• What it means: The engine control module (ECM/ECU) did not detect a valid signal from the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor in the A circuit. The crank sensor provides engine speed (RPM) data and, along with other sensors, timing information used to control ignition and fuel injection.
• Severity and safety: High. A consistent or intermittent loss of crank signal can cause no-start conditions, stalling, poor drivability, and the potential for unsafe situations if the car stalls while driving. Depending on the fault, the vehicle may run in a limp/limited mode; in some cases it may fail to start.

COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA COROLLA (2020–2024)

• Faulty CKP sensor itself (worn, failed, or degraded).
• Damaged, corroded, or loose electrical connectors or wiring harness to the CKP sensor or to the PCM.
• Wiring shorts or opens in the CKP circuit (pinched harness, worn insulation, water ingress).
• Dirty or contaminated CKP sensor (oil or coolant leaks around the sensor area).
• Faulty reluctor/tone ring (damage or contamination around the crankshaft reluctor ring that the sensor reads).
• Poor engine ground or battery/charging issues causing voltage dips that affect sensor signaling.
• PCM/ECU fault or a software calibration issue (less common, but possible).
• Mechanical timing issues (rare for a modern Toyota with a timing chain) such that the tone ring/readings are compromised.
• Sensor installation or mounting issues after maintenance (misalignment, loose bolts).

SYMPTOMS YOU MIGHT SEE

• Engine does not start or stalls soon after starting.
• Intermittent starting problems; engine cranks but does not fire.
• Stalling while driving, loss of power, or rough idle before stalling.
• Check Engine Light with DTC P0335 stored or pending; sometimes accompanied by related CKP codes (P0330–P0339 family).
• Possible misfire symptoms (engine misfires as the ECU loses ignition timing data).
• In some cases, the vehicle may enter a failsafe/limp mode to prevent further damage.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Always start with safety and basic checks before delving into electrical diagnostics.

A. Preparation and initial checks

• Scan for DTCs and note any freeze-frame data. Clear codes only if you plan to recheck after steps.
• Check battery condition, charging system, and major grounds. A weak battery or poor ground can mimic CKP issues.
• Inspect for obvious mechanical issues: oil leaks around the CKP sensor area, disturbed wiring, or recent under-hood work that may affect the sensor harness.

B. Visual and mechanical inspection

• Locate the CKP sensor. In many Toyota engines, it’s mounted near the crankshaft pulley or on the lower timing area; access may vary by 2020–2024 Corolla variant.
• Inspect the CKP sensor connector, pins, and the wiring harness for corrosion, fraying, heat damage, or oil contamination.
• Check the tone ring/reluctor ring for damage or foreign debris. A damaged/readout-free tone ring can cause a bad signal even with a good sensor.
• Verify that the sensor mounting is correct and secure.

C. Electrical tests (using the correct service information for your engine variant)

• Verify 5V reference and ground:
  • With the harness disconnected at the sensor, back-probe the CKP sensor wires to confirm there is a constant reference (often 5V) from the PCM and a solid ground. If the reference or ground is missing, repair wiring or connector as needed.
• Test resistance (where applicable):
  • Some CKP sensors are 2-wire or 3-wire with a specific resistance range; check the service manual for the exact spec. If resistance is out of spec (open or infinite, or drastically different from spec), the sensor is faulty.
• Signal verification:
  • Use an oscilloscope or a high-quality scan tool with live CKP data to observe the waveform while the engine is cranking.
  • Look for a clean, periodic waveform that changes with RPM. If there is no signal, the CKP sensor or wiring is suspect. If the waveform is erratic or unstable, wiring or sensor degradation may be the issue.
  • If you’re using a scan tool, compare CKP RPM readings to actual engine RPM. A large discrepancy or no signal indicates a problem in the CKP circuit.
• Powertrain control module (PCM) considerations:
  • If wiring and sensor test good, but the PCM fails to interpret the signal, a PCM fault is possible (less common). In such cases, software updates or PCM replacement may be considered by a dealer or qualified shop.

D. Additional checks if symptoms persist

• Inspect and test the related CKP circuit for short to power, short to ground, or open conditions along the entire length of the harness.
• If oil leaks are present, seal and clean the sensor area and recheck.
• Check for related codes (P0330–P0339 family) that may help pinpoint whether the issue is crankshaft or camshaft related.

E. Final steps

• If a faulty CKP sensor is confirmed, plan for replacement and re-test.
• After replacement, perform a road test to ensure the new sensor provides stable signals across RPM range and that no other DTCs reappear.

RELATED CODES

• P0336 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
• P0337 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
• P0338 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input
• P0339 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
• P0330 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit
• P0331–P0334 (other Camshaft/CKP sensor related codes in some generations)
  Note: These codes point to similar sensor or timing signal issues. Diagnosing CKP and CMP circuit integrity is common across these codes.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices vary by region, labor rate, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. The ranges below reflect typical North American shop pricing as of 2025.

A. CKP Sensor replacement

• Parts: $15–$70 (aftermarket) or $40–$120 (OEM)
• Labor: 0.8–2.0 hours, depending on access and vehicle variant
• Typical total (parts + labor): $95–$430
• Diagnostic fee: Many shops include this with repair; standalone diagnostic: $80–$120

B. Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement

• Parts: $5–$50 (connector or short harness)
• Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
• Typical total: $60–$185

C. PCM/software updates or reflash

• Parts: N/A
• Labor/Software: $0–$150 (dealer price may vary; some dealers include in service if a TSB/recall applies or if a firmware update is required)

D. Timing-related repairs (rare, more extensive)

• If a damaged tone ring or timing chain tensioner/timing-related issue is also suspected, the repair cost can rise significantly (often $800–$2,000 or more, depending on access and whether major timing components must be removed)
• This is uncommon for CKP code alone but may occur if mechanical timing integrity is compromised

E. Diagnostic and miscellaneous

• Diagnosis charge: $80–$120 (sometimes waived if the repair is performed at the same shop)

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY viability: Moderate to challenging. CKP sensor replacement is doable for an experienced DIYer, but access on some Corolla variants can be tight, and you may need to remove components to reach the sensor.
• Tools you’ll typically need: standard hand tools, a multimeter or oscilloscope (optional but helpful for waveform testing), possibly a small mirror or flashlight for hard-to-see sensor area, OEM service manual torque specs.
• Risks: Incorrect sensor installation, damaged wiring, or failure to re-seat connections can cause new or recurring DTCs. Improper timing-related work carries significant risk to engine integrity.
• When to go pro: If access is difficult, you’re unsure about electrical tests, you’re seeing intermittent signals that require advanced diagnostic equipment, or the CKP test points toward PCM or timing ring issues, a professional shop is recommended.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance and leak control: Fix oil or coolant leaks promptly to prevent sensor contamination.
• Keep electrical connections clean: Ensure CKP connectors are clean, dry, and properly latched; apply dielectric grease if recommended by service procedure.
• Protect wiring: Ensure harnesses aren’t rubbing against sharp edges or heat sources; use loom and proper routing to prevent wear.
• Monitor electrical health: Maintain a healthy battery and charging system; voltage dips can affect sensor readings and ECM logic.
• Software updates: Periodically check for OEM software updates or TSBs that address CKP-related concerns for your engine variant.
• Address drivability issues early: If you notice stalling, hard starting, or rough idle, diagnose promptly to prevent secondary issues and to avoid extended exposure to misfire conditions.

Final notes

• The diagnostic steps above are a structured approach you can follow if you encounter P0335 on a 2020–2024 Toyota Corolla. Because the provided NHTSA data did not include P0335, the guidance relies on general CKP sensor knowledge and Toyota practices for this model range.
• If you confirm a faulty CKP sensor or related wiring, replacing the sensor and repairing damaged wiring is typically sufficient. If problems persist after a sensor replacement, investigate the tone ring, wiring harness integrity, and PCM health.