Imagine this scenario: You are driving your Kia Ceed or Hyundai i30, perhaps slowing down for a traffic light, and suddenly the engine cuts out. Or maybe you're trying to start the car in the morning, and it just cranks endlessly without firing up.
You plug in your OBD-II scanner, and it spits out the code: P0335 - Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction.
For owners of the 1.6 CRDi (Diesel) or 1.6 Gamma (Petrol) engines, this is one of the most frustrating yet common issues. The good news? It is also one of the easiest to fix yourself.
In this guide, we will dive deep into what this code means, the technical reasons behind the failure, and provide a step-by-step tutorial to replace the faulty sensor using OEM-quality parts from Automotive Leader.
What is the P0335 Code? (The Technical Breakdown)
To understand the fix, you must understand the problem. The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) is the heartbeat monitor of your engine.
According to technical documentation from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) regarding OBD-II standards, the CKP sensor monitors the rotational speed and position of the crankshaft. It sends this data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) as a voltage signal (usually a square wave in Hall Effect sensors).
Why is this data critical?
The ECU uses this precise timing information to determine two things:
-
Injection Timing: When to spray fuel into the cylinders.
-
Ignition Timing: When to fire the spark plugs (in petrol engines).
When the sensor fails (P0335), the ECU loses track of where the engine's pistons are. It effectively "goes blind." As a safety measure, the ECU may cut fuel to prevent engine damage, causing your car to stall or enter "Limp Mode."
5 Classic Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Sensor on Kia/Hyundai
If you haven't scanned your car yet, look out for these tell-tale signs. These are highly specific to the Hyundai/Kia architecture:
1. The Tachometer Drop (Dead Giveaway)
This is the most distinct symptom. When the engine stalls or fails to start, watch your RPM gauge (Tachometer).
-
Normal: The needle should bounce slightly while cranking.
-
P0335 Symptom: The needle stays dead at 0 RPM, even while the engine is turning over. This confirms the ECU is receiving no signal from the crankshaft.
2. Hard Starting or "Crank No Start"
You turn the key, the starter motor engages, and the engine spins, but it won't catch. This happens because the ECU doesn't know when to inject fuel. Sometimes, after letting the car cool down for 20 minutes, it might start again (a sign of heat-related sensor failure).
3. Intermittent Stalling (Cutting Out)
Your Kia Ceed or Hyundai i30 might die suddenly while idling at a stoplight or driving at low speeds. This is dangerous and indicates the sensor signal is dropping out intermittently.
4. Limited RPM (Limp Mode)
If the sensor hasn't failed completely but is sending erratic data, the ECU will limit the engine speed—usually to 3000 RPM—to protect the mechanical components. You will feel a significant loss of power and acceleration.
5. Check Engine Light (CEL)
Obviously, the light will turn on. Common related codes include:
-
P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction.
-
P0336: Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Range/Performance.
(If you have other engine codes related to oxygen sensors, check our other guide: [👉 The Ultimate Guide to Bad Sensor Symptoms])
Why Do These Sensors Fail?
On Hyundai and Kia models (specifically the 2007-2015 generation), the Crankshaft Position Sensor is located low on the engine block, near the transmission bell housing.
-
Thermal Stress: Being mounted directly to the engine block, the sensor endures extreme heat cycles. Over time, the internal copper windings or the magnet can degrade, leading to resistance changes that confuse the ECU.
-
Wiring Issues: The connector wire is often exposed to oil leaks or road debris. A frayed wire can cause a short circuit.
-
Metal Shavings: The sensor is magnetic. If your oil is dirty, metal shavings can accumulate on the sensor tip, interfering with the signal reading.
The Solution: Replace, Don't Clean
A common myth is that you can simply "clean" a P0335 code away. While wiping off metal shavings might work for a day or two, it cannot fix internal heat damage or broken circuits inside the sensor.
The only permanent fix is replacement.
Cost Analysis: Dealer vs. DIY
-
Dealership Cost: A Kia/Hyundai dealer will typically charge $150 -
150 for labor. Total: $300+. -
DIY Cost: You can buy an OEM-quality replacement from Automotive Leader for under $50 and install it yourself in 30 minutes.
Your Savings: Approx. $250.
[👉 Shop Crankshaft Position Sensor for Kia Ceed / Hyundai i30 (Part 39180-2B000 / 39265-2U100)]
(Note: Please check the part number on your old sensor to ensure fitment, or contact us for help.)
Step-by-Step DIY Installation Guide
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Time: 30-45 Minutes
Tools Needed:
-
10mm Socket and Ratchet (with extension)
-
Flashlight
-
Jack and Jack Stands (optional, but makes it easier)
Step 1: Locate the Sensor
On the 1.6L engines (Gamma/CRDi), the sensor is typically located on the front or side of the engine block, near where the engine meets the transmission (bell housing). It is often positioned directly below the starter motor.
Step 2: Disconnect the Battery
Safety First: Always disconnect the negative (-) terminal of your car battery before working on electrical sensors. This prevents short circuits and clears the ECU's temporary memory.
Step 3: Remove the Old Sensor
-
Unclip the electrical connector. You might need to press a tab and pull.
-
Use your 10mm socket to remove the single bolt holding the sensor in place.
-
Gently twist and pull the sensor out. It might be stuck due to an O-ring seal—wiggle it carefully. Do not snap it off inside the engine.
Step 4: Install the New Sensor
-
Take your new [Automotive Leader Sensor].
-
Apply a tiny drop of clean engine oil to the new O-ring (this helps it slide in).
-
Insert the sensor into the hole. It should seat fully flush against the block.
-
Tighten the 10mm bolt. Do not overtighten—it is a plastic part and can crack. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn is usually enough.
-
Plug the electrical connector back in until it clicks.
Step 5: Reset and Test
Reconnect your battery. Start the engine.
-
Note: The Check Engine Light might stay on for the first few drive cycles. You can clear it instantly with an OBD-II scanner, or just drive the car normally—it should turn off once the ECU verifies the signal is stable.
FAQ: Common Questions about P0335
Q: Can I drive my Kia Ceed with a P0335 code?
A: We do not recommend it. While the car might run in "Limp Mode," it can stall unpredictably, which is a major safety hazard in traffic. It can also cause poor fuel combustion, potentially clogging your DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) or Catalytic Converter.
Q: Is the Camshaft Sensor the same as the Crankshaft Sensor?
A: No. They work together but are different parts. A failure in the Camshaft sensor usually triggers code P0340. P0335 is specifically for the Crankshaft.
Q: Will this fit my specific year?
A: This guide applies to most Hyundai i30 (FD/GD) and Kia Ceed (ED/JD) models from 2007 to 2017. However, always verify the OEM part number matches. Our product page lists all compatible vehicles.
Conclusion
The P0335 error code on your Hyundai or Kia is stressful, but it's not a death sentence for your car. It's simply a cry for help from a small electronic component that has done its job for years.
Don't let a $50 part leave you stranded on the side of the road. With a simple 10mm socket and a quality replacement part, you can restore your engine's reliability and performance today.
Ready to fix your car? Order today and get fast shipping from our US warehouse.
[👉 Buy the OEM Replacement Crankshaft Sensor for Kia/Hyundai Here]
0 comments