What is code P0335 on Chevy Sonic?
P0335 on a Chevy Sonic indicates a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) circuit, a problem that can affect ignition timing and fuel delivery and may trigger the check engine light.
In the Sonic, which is offered with a 1.8-liter engine or a 1.4-liter turbo, the CKP sensor provides critical data to the engine control module (PCM) to synchronize spark and injector timing. A fault in this circuit can range from a faulty sensor or wiring issue to a PCM problem, and it often manifests as stalling, misfires, or difficulty starting, though symptoms can vary by model year and engine variant.
What P0335 means for the Chevy Sonic
The code P0335 is a generic powertrain diagnostic code pointing to the crankshaft position sensor A circuit malfunction. The CKP sensor monitors crankshaft position and speed and sends a pulsed signal to the PCM to time ignition and fuel injection. If the signal is lost, weak, or erratic, the PCM may adjust timing or disable ignition, triggering the MIL and potentially reducing drivability.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms you might notice with P0335 in a Sonic include:
- Engine misfires or rough idle
- Stalling or no-start conditions
- Reduced engine power or sluggish acceleration
- Illuminated Check Engine Light
- Difficulty restarting after a stall
These symptoms can vary by model year and engine variant, and some cases may be intermittent as components wear or wiring shifts.
Likely causes
Most P0335 cases arise from one of these root causes:
- Faulty crankshaft position sensor (CKP) itself
- Damaged, corroded, or loose CKP sensor wiring or connector
- Faulty power or ground supply to the CKP circuit
- Timing chain/belt wear or sprocket misalignment affecting the CKP signal
- PCM/ECM fault, though this is less common
Exact cause is best confirmed with diagnostic testing using a scan tool and, if needed, sensor testing equipment.
How to diagnose
Diagnostic steps commonly used for P0335 on a Chevy Sonic:
- Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0335 and review freeze frame data
- Inspect the CKP sensor and its wiring harness for damage, contamination, oil leaks, or loose connections
- Check the 5-volt reference and ground circuits feeding the CKP sensor with a multimeter; verify there is signal activity during crank
- Test the CKP sensor output with a scope or reliable live data; a non-changing or erratic signal indicates a faulty sensor
- Inspect timing components if there are mechanical symptoms or if other related codes appear
After identifying a faulty CKP sensor or wiring, replacement or repair usually resolves P0335, though intermittent cases may require further investigation or PCM considerations.
Repair options and estimated costs
Repair approaches and typical price ranges (which vary by region and shop) include:
- CKP sensor replacement: parts typically range from about $15 to $100; labor around 1–2 hours
- Wiring repair or connector replacement: cost depends on damage; labor typically 0.5–2 hours
- PCM replacement is rare and usually considered only after other diagnostics fail; expect labor and core charges
To avoid unnecessary work, pursue diagnostics to confirm the faulty component before replacing parts, and clear codes after repair to verify the fix.
Maintenance tips and prevention
Preventive steps to reduce the chance of CKP-related issues in a Chevy Sonic include:
- Keep sensor connectors clean and dry; promptly address oil leaks that can contaminate the CKP sensor
- Inspect wiring harnesses for wear or damage near hot or moving engine parts
- Follow service intervals for timing components appropriate to your engine variant
Regular inspection of ignition components and sensor wiring can help prevent unexpected failures and keep the engine running smoothly.
Summary
P0335 signals a fault in the crankshaft position sensor circuit on the Chevy Sonic. It can cause symptoms ranging from misfires and rough idle to no-start and reduced power. Causes commonly include a bad CKP sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or timing-related issues. Diagnosis typically involves scanning, inspecting wiring and connections, verifying power/ground, and testing the sensor signal. Replacing the CKP sensor or repairing damaged wiring usually resolves the code, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified technician.
