P0335 Code: Dodge Ram 1500 (2019-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database

No NHTSA owner complaints were found for 2019–2024 Dodge Ram 1500 specifically tied to P0335 in the data provided. This guide is based on general OBD-II knowledge for P0335 plus model-specific considerations for the Ram 1500 across its engines (3.6L Pentastar with possible eTorque, 5.7L Hemi, etc.), combined with typical diagnostic and repair practices. Use this as a comprehensive starting point, and verify against your exact engine variant and electronics.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction
• What it means: The engineControl Module (ECM/PCM) detected an abnormal condition in the circuit that provides the crankshaft position (CKP) signal from the primary CKP sensor. The “A” designation typically refers to the primary CKP sensor on the engine.
• Why it matters: The CKP signal is used by the PCM to determine engine position and timing. If the signal is lost, weak, or erratic, the PCM may not know when to spark and inject fuel correctly. This can lead to no-start, engine stalling, misfires, poor acceleration, or limp-mode operation.
• Severity range:
  • Intermittent CKP signal: rough idle, occasional stalling, possible MIL illumination.
  • Persistent CKP failure: hard or no-start, stalling, reduced power, or inability to run.
  • In Ram 1500s with variable timing or advanced engine controls, CKP loss can trigger protective limp modes.

COMMON CAUSES ON DODGE RAM 1500

• Faulty CKP sensor itself (most common)
• Damaged, frayed, or corroded CKP sensor wiring or connector
• Loose or corroded ground or 5V reference supply to the CKP sensor
• Damaged crankshaft reluctor ring or misalignment, or debris/foreign material affecting the teeth
• Oil or coolant leaks that contaminate the sensor or its wiring
• Electrical noise or interference from nearby components or poor shielding
• PCM/engine controller software or calibration issue (less common)
• Timing chain/belt issues (rarely the primary cause for P0335 alone, but extreme timing variations can cause CKP signal problems)
• Aftermarket mods or modifications that affect crank timing wiring or shielded harnesses

SYMPTOMS

• Engine cranks but won’t start or starts and immediately stalls
• Engine stalls while driving or runs very poorly, with loss of power
• Check Engine Light (MIL) on with P0335
• Rough idle or misfires
• Intermittent no-start or intermittent stalling
• In some cases, limp-home mode with limited RPM

Note: If a P0335 is accompanied by other codes (e.g., P0336, P0337, P0338, P0339, or misfire/fueling codes), address the combined indications as they can point to wiring or sensor health issues rather than a simple bad sensor.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

A methodical approach helps avoid unnecessary parts replacement. Work with a good scan tool or oscilloscope.

• Step 0: Verify and document

  • Retrieve all codes and freeze-frame data with a reliable scanner.
  • Note any other CKP-related codes (P0336–P0339) and any misfire codes.
  • Confirm whether the condition is intermittent or persistent, and whether it occurs at cranking, idling, or under load.

• Step 1: Visual inspection

  • Locate the CKP sensor and its wiring harness.
  • Inspect for damaged, pinched, or chafed wires, corrosion at the connector, oil leaks, heat damage, or loose connectors.
  • Check the sensor mounting for proper torque and alignment as specified by your engine variant.
  • Look for oil or coolant contamination around the sensor and wiring.

• Step 2: Check electrical power and grounding

  • With the ignition off, back-probe the CKP sensor connector to verify:
    • A stable 5V reference (or the OEM reference voltage) on the reference wire.
    • A solid ground on the CKP sensor ground wire.
  • If you have a service manual or data sheet, confirm the expected voltages and pinout for your exact engine variant (3.6L, 5.7L, etc.).

• Step 3: Inspect the CKP signal path

  • Using a scope or a high-quality scanner, monitor the CKP signal while cranking.
  • Expect a clear waveform with teeth passing the sensor. No signal, a flat line, or erratic spikes indicate an issue.
  • If the signal is present sporadically or weak, suspect a bad sensor, poor connection, or a damaged reluctor ring.

• Step 4: Inspect the crankshaft reluctor ring and timing components

  • Look for damaged teeth, misalignment, or foreign material on/near the reluctor ring.
  • If accessible, rotate the crank slowly by hand and observe the CKP signal behavior. Intermittent irregularities can point to a faulty reluctor, misalignment, or sensor mounting issue.

• Step 5: Check for contamination

  • Oil leaks from seals, valve covers, or nearby components can contaminate the sensor or plug.
  • Clean or replace contaminated sensors and reseal as needed.

• Step 6: Test sensor resistance (if applicable)

  • Some CKP sensors have a defined resistance; compare to the service manual specification. Note that many modern CKP sensors are variable or produce a PWM/AC signal rather than a simple DC resistance, so confirm with the OEM spec.

• Step 7: Inspect for PCM concerns

  • If wiring and sensor health check out, but the CKP signal still fails to reach the PCM, consider PCM ground and harness routing issues, or software/calibration discrepancies.
  • Reset or reflash the PCM only with manufacturer-approved procedures and tools.

• Step 8: Re-test after repair

  • Clear codes, start and test drive under various loads to verify the issue is resolved.
  • Ensure no new CKP-related codes appear after driving.

• Step 9: If no source is found

  • If the CKP sensor, wiring, and reluctor ring check out but the code persists, consult a dealer or a shop with advanced diagnostic tools. In rare cases, PCM replacement or reprogramming may be indicated, but verify with the OEM procedure and re-learn requirements.

RELATED CODES

• P0336 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
• P0337 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
• P0338 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Signal Missing
• P0339 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
• (Other CKP-related codes in the 033x family can accompany P0335; always review all codes and live data.)

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices are approximate and can vary by location, vehicle variant (engine type), availability of OEM vs aftermarket parts, and labor rates.

• CKP sensor replacement (most common fix)

  • Parts: $20–$120 (OEM typically $60–$120)
  • Labor: $60–$180 (industry-standard shops; 0.5–2.0 hours depending on access)
  • Typical total: $85–$300

• Wiring harness repair or connector replacement

  • Parts: $10–$100 for connectors or pigtails; wiring repair materials
  • Labor: $100–$250
  • Typical total: $110–$350

• Crankshaft reluctor ring replacement (rare; more involved)

  • Parts: $20–$200 (ring itself; may be included in a crank assembly)
  • Labor: $200–$800 (often higher if engine or timing components must be accessed)
  • Typical total: $250–$1000

• Timing chain/belt kit (only if timing issues are confirmed as contributing to CKP signal problems)

  • Parts: $200–$600
  • Labor: $800–$1800
  • Typical total: $1000–$2400

• PCM replacement or programming (rare; only if PCM fault is confirmed)

  • Parts: $350–$900
  • Labor/Programming: $100–$300
  • Typical total: $450–$1200

• ancillary costs

  • Seals, gaskets, oil changes if related to leaks
  • Diagnostic time if shop charges a flat diagnostic fee (often $50–$150)

Notes:

• In many cases, a simple CKP sensor replacement plus connector/interface cleaning resolves P0335.
• If your Ram 1500 has warranty or extended coverage, confirm coverage for sensor/wiring components.
• Always perform re-learning or adaptation procedures after replacing CKP sensor (per OEM procedure).

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly aspects

  • CKP sensor replacement is commonly straightforward on many Ram 1500 engines, with the sensor mounted near the crank pulley or engine block.
  • If you have basic hand tools and a service manual/diagrams, you can often replace the sensor yourself.
  • You can perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness, connectors, and sensor mounting.

• Tools and skills that help

  • Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers)
  • Multimeter for voltage/ground checks
  • Scan tool with live data for CKP signal and waveform (or an oscilloscope to view the waveform)
  • Vehicle jacks/stands or lift for access (depending on engine variant and mounting)
  • OEM service information for exact pinouts, torque specs, and re-learn procedures

• When to go professional

  • If the CKP sensor, wiring, and reluctor ring appear fine but the problem persists
  • If you lack access to a capable oscilloscope or the ability to interpret CKP waveforms
  • If you suspect PCM-related issues or timing chain work beyond your skill level
  • If access to the CKP sensor requires extensive disassembly or removal of major components

• Safety considerations

  • Disconnect battery before component removal when working near electrical connectors
  • Be mindful of moving engine parts and hot surfaces
  • Properly support the vehicle if you’re working underneath

PREVENTION

• Regular inspection of CKP wiring and connectors

  • Look for exposed wires, corrosion, or moisture in connectors.
  • Ensure connectors are fully seated and locked.

• Keep engine bay clean and leak-free

  • Fix oil leaks promptly to prevent sensor contamination.
  • Check for oil or coolant leaks around the timing area and around the crank area.

• Use quality parts

  • When replacing, prefer OEM or high-quality aftermarket CKP sensors and connectors designed for your engine.
  • Avoid brittle or low-quality sensor plugs that may degrade quickly.

• Protect wiring harnesses

  • Use protective sleeves or loom where wiring runs near hot surfaces.
  • Avoid harness chafing by routing away from sharp edges or moving components.

• Periodic software/ECM health checks

  • Ensure PCM software is up to date per factory guidelines if applicable to your engine variant.
  • If a software update is available to address CKP signal handling, consider it under proper dealer guidance.

• Drive cycle maintenance

  • Regular maintenance, timely oil changes, and keeping the ignition system in good shape reduces odd electrical noise and sensor stress.

Data limitations and transparency

• The provided dataset for this task shows:
  • No NHTSA complaints found for P0335 on 2019–2024 Ram 1500 in the given data.
  • No recalls found in NHTSA database for this make/model/year (as per the data you supplied).
• This guide uses general automotive knowledge to diagnose and repair P0335 and does not rely on any additional recalls or TSBs beyond what’s in the provided data.
• If you have access to vehicle-specific service information (factory repair manuals or dealer bulletins), use those for exact sensor pinouts, torque specs, and re-learn procedures for your exact engine variant.