The Ultimate Guide to Hyundai & Kia Starting Issues: P0335 & Crankshaft Sensors

You get in your Hyundai or Kia, turn the key, and... nothing. The engine cranks (makes the "rur-rur-rur" sound), but it just won't catch. Or maybe, even scarier, your car suddenly stalled while driving and the RPM gauge dropped to zero.

If you scan your car with an OBDII scanner, you will likely see the code P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction.

At Automotive-leader, this is the #1 issue we help Hyundai and Kia owners solve. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain why this sensor fails, how to identify the right part (like the popular 39265-2U100), and how to get your car back on the road.

1. What is the Crankshaft Position Sensor?

Think of the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) as the "heartbeat monitor" of your engine. It tells the car's computer (ECU) exactly where the pistons are and how fast the engine is spinning.

Without this signal, the ECU doesn't know when to fire the spark plugs or inject fuel. result? No start.

Why do they fail on Korean cars?
On models like the Hyundai Elantra, Santa Fe, i30, and Kia Ceed, this sensor is located near the hot engine block. Over time, heat stress causes the internal wiring to crack, leading to intermittent failures.

2. Top 4 Symptoms of a Failing Crank Sensor

Before the Check Engine Light even comes on, your car might give you warning signs:

1. Hard Starting / No Start: The engine turns over but refuses to fire. This often happens when the engine is hot.

2. Stalling: The engine dies at stoplights or while driving low speeds.

3. Tachometer Not Moving: When you try to start the car, look at your RPM gauge. If it stays at 0 even while the engine is cranking, your Crank Sensor is dead.

4. Limp Mode: The car feels sluggish and won't accelerate past a certain speed.

3. The Dreaded P0335 Code (And Related Codes)

When the sensor fails, the ECU throws specific codes.

• P0335: The main code. No signal from the sensor.

• P0016 / P0017: Sometimes appears alongside P0335, indicating the Crankshaft and Camshaft are out of sync.

Is it the sensor or the wiring?
90% of the time on Hyundai/Kia vehicles, it is the sensor itself. However, you should always check the connector for oil contamination.

4. Part Number Confusion: Finding the Right Sensor

This is where most owners make a mistake. Hyundai and Kia use very similar-looking sensors, but they are not interchangeable.

The Most Common Part: 39265-2U100

This is the "gold standard" sensor for many 1.4L and 1.6L engines found in:

• Hyundai i30 / Elantra / Accent

• Kia Ceed / Rio / Soul

• (Engine codes: G4FA, G4FC)

Need this exact part? We stock the OEM-spec replacement that fixes the P0335 code permanently.
👉 [Buy Now: Crankshaft Position Sensor for Hyundai/Kia (Replaces 39265-2U100)] 

Other Variants

Some older models use 39180-2B000. Always check your old sensor's part number or send us your VIN to confirm.
👉 [Shop All Hyundai & Kia Sensors] 

5. How to Fix It: DIY or Mechanic?

Replacing this sensor is a moderate DIY job. It usually requires removing the air filter box and reaching down behind the engine.

Want a Step-by-Step Tutorial?
We have created a dedicated guide specifically for the Hyundai i30 and Kia Ceed. It walks you through every bolt you need to remove to access the sensor.
👉 [Read Our Full DIY Guide: Fixing P0335 on Hyundai i30 / Kia Ceed] 

Pro Tip: You will need a 10mm socket and about 30 minutes of time.

6. While You Are In There: The Camshaft Sensor

A common mechanic's tip: If you replace the Crankshaft Sensor, consider replacing the Camshaft Sensor too.
They work together like a pair of gears. If one has failed due to heat and age, the other (P0340 code) is likely close to failure.

We offer bundle deals to replace both and save on shipping.
👉 [Shop Camshaft & Crankshaft Bundles] 

7. Conclusion

Don't let a $20 sensor leave you stranded in a parking lot. The P0335 code is your car screaming for help.
At Automotive-leader, we specialize in these Korean car sensors because we know how high the failure rate is. Get a sensor that is built to withstand the heat.

Not sure if this is your problem?
Check your tachometer while cranking. If it doesn't move, grab a new sensor below.

👉 [Get Your 39265-2U100 Replacement Sensor Now]