P0335 Code: Jeep Cherokee (2019-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0335 Diagnostic Guide for 2019–2023 Jeep Cherokee (Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction)

Data note and limitations

• REAL NHTSA DATA FOR Jeep Cherokee (2019-2023): No NHTSA complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination. No official recalls found in NHTSA database.
• This guide combines the available data note with general automotive knowledge. If you rely on this for diagnostic decisions, be aware that the data sample is very limited and may not reflect every real-world scenario.
• The methods and cost estimates below assume standard CKP (crankshaft position sensor) implementation on a modern Jeep 2019–2023 Cherokee and are meant to be broadly applicable. Variations between engine families (e.g., 2.0L turbo, 3.2L, 3.6L, etc.) exist; consult the service manual for your exact engine variant.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0335 – Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction
• What it means: The PCM (engine computer) detects an abnormal signal on the crankshaft position sensor circuit A. This is typically the primary CKP sensor, or its associated wiring, reference voltage, or PCM input.
• Severity: High. Symptoms often include difficulty starting, stalling, misfires, rough running, or engine immobilization in some cases. If the PCM cannot reliably know crank position, the engine may not start or may run erratically or stall abruptly.

COMMON CAUSES ON JEEP CHEROKEE

• Faulty CKP sensor (A) itself.
• Damaged, frayed, or shorted CKP signal or supply wiring in the harness (including poor ground).
• Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the CKP sensor or its harness connector.
• Damaged reluctor ring/tonneau (crankshaft reluctor ring) or misalignment/movement of the tone wheel.
• Insufficient or absent 5V reference from the PCM to the CKP sensor (or a broken reference circuit).
• PCM/ECM fault or intermittent input due to software or internal hardware.
• Timing issues (rare but possible): a jumped timing chain/bailure that alters crank position relative to the sensor signal; this would typically present with multiple PCM codes and mechanical symptoms.
• Electrical noise or excessive EMI from other components (e.g., damaged wiring routing near hot/corroded areas).

SYMPTOMS

• No-start or hard-start condition.
• Engine runs only briefly or stalls after starting.
• Misfires, rough idle, or fluctuating idle.
• Stalling while driving; possible limp-mode behavior.
• Check Engine Light (MIL) with P0335 (and possibly related codes such as P0330, P0336, or others).
• Inconsistent engine RPM readings or crank signal data on scan tool.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: The steps below are general best practices. Adapt to your engine variant and service manual.

A. Verify and document

• Use a reliable OBD-II scanner to confirm P0335 and note freeze-frame data (RPM, engine load, temperature, etc.).
• Check for related or history codes (P0330, P0336, P0337, P0339, etc.). Clear codes, run engine, and recheck to see if the code returns.

B. Visual inspection

• Inspect CKP sensor and wiring for obvious damage: cracked harness, pinched, melted, or worn insulation.
• Check connectors for corrosion, bent pins, moisture intrusion, or improper mating. Disconnect and reconnect to reseat firmly.
• Inspect the crankshaft reluctor ring/tonque (tone ring) for missing teeth, cracks, or misalignment. Look for debris or metal shavings around the sensor area.

C. Electrical checks (non-destructive)

• Power and ground check:
  • With ignition ON (engine OFF), back-probe the CKP sensor harness to confirm:
    • Reference voltage (usually around 5V) present at the reference wire (check service manual for exact wire color).
    • Ground continuity from the CKP sensor ground to a good engine ground.
• Signal circuit check:
  • With the ignition ON and engine cranking if possible, check the CKP signal wire for activity (voltage or pulsing signal). A healthy CKP signal will show a pulsing waveform or alternating voltage as the crankshaft turns.
• Resistance test (where applicable):
  • Some CKP sensors are one of a few types (Hall effect vs. variable reluctance). If your engine uses a variable reluctance CKP, direct resistance readings may be less conclusive. If the service manual provides a specified resistance range for the CKP sensor, measure between the signal and ground/reference as instructed and compare to spec.
• Wiggle/torque test:
  • While observing live data or scope, gently flex the harness near connectors and along the path. Watch for dropouts or intermittent signals. Any intermittent loss suggests wiring or connector fault.

D. Sensor and tone-ring assessment

• If electrical checks pass but the signal is intermittent or absent, inspect or test the CKP sensor itself (replacement is often the simplest fix if the sensor is suspect).
• If the tone ring is damaged or misaligned (crankshaft timing reference), the CKP signal can be inconsistent or absent. This may require more involved inspection or service.

E. Mechanical/PCM considerations

• If wiring and sensor test good but the code persists, consider PCM-related issues. A software/ECU update for your model year may address false positives in rare cases.
• If there is overt timing chain/belt wear or if the crank pulley/timing components show abnormal movement, investigate mechanical timing concerns (this is less common but can coincide with P0335 in some engine designs).

F. Reproduce and verify

• After any repair, clear codes and perform a road test or simulated driving test to verify the CKP signal is stable and the vehicle starts reliably.

G. When to replace

• Replace CKP sensor if:
  • Electrical tests indicate sensor fault (open/short on signal line, poor ground, or inconsistent signal).
  • Sensor physically damaged or resistance/signal behavior is out of spec after tests.
• Replace damaged wiring harness or connectors if tests show damaged insulation, corrosion, or poor connections.
• If tone ring is damaged or misaligned, address mechanical issues (tone ring replacement or crankshaft timing component work as needed).
• If PCM is suspected, involve a professional; PCM replacement often requires programming and proper diagnosis to avoid other downstream issues.

RELATED CODES

• P0330 – Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit (A) Range/Performance
• P0336 – CKP Circuit Range/Performance (A) or (B) depending on system
• P0337 – CKP Circuit Low Input
• P0339 – Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Intermittent/Other
  Notes: Presence of these codes alongside P0335 can point to wiring or sensor faults rather than PCM logic alone.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 estimates)

Prices vary by region, labor rates, and whether you use OEM vs. aftermarket parts. Figures are ballpark ranges.

• CKP sensor replacement (part only)

  • Parts: roughly $15–$120 (depends on engine variant and OEM vs aftermarket; Cherokee sensors typically fall in the lower-to-mid range)
  • Labor: about 0.5–1.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $80–$270

• CKP sensor wiring/connectors repair or harness replacement

  • Parts: $20–$150 for harness pieces or connectors; full harness replacement more if needed
  • Labor: 1–2.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $150–$550

• Tone ring/reluctor ring replacement or crankshaft timing work

  • Parts: often $0–$100 for ancillary parts; timing components (if required) can be more expensive
  • Labor: 2–6 hours depending on access and whether engine timing needs to be addressed
  • Estimated total: $350–$1200+ (and potentially more if timing components are replaced)

• PCM replacement or reflash

  • Parts: $150–$600 (plus any programming/software fees)
  • Labor: 0.5–2 hours
  • Estimated total: $300–$900+

• Miscellaneous costs

  • Diagnostic fee if done at a shop
  • Additional parts if related issues (spark plugs, wires, etc.)

Important note: If the issue is strictly a CKP circuit fault, most jobs will be CKP sensor replacement or wiring repair. If timing components are involved, for a modern Cherokee with a timing chain, the job is significantly more expensive and time-consuming.

DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly tasks:
  • Visual inspection of sensor, connectors, and wiring.
  • Basic continuity and resistance checks on the wiring to the CKP sensor (with proper schematics).
  • Cleaning connector pins and reseating the CKP sensor.
  • Replacing a faulty CKP sensor if you have a sense of mechanical space and the service manual shows it is accessible without engine removal.
  • Observing and recording signals with a basic OBD-II tool if it supports live data (though a oscilloscope or high-quality scanner is better for waveform observation).
• When to go professional:
  • If you cannot locate the fault after basic checks.
  • If you suspect timing chain/reluctor ring or crankshaft mechanical issues.
  • If wiring harness damage is substantial or involves internal harness routing through engine compartments.
  • If PCM diagnosis, reflash, or programming is required.
  • If you lack safe access to engine areas or the vehicle is under warranty or loaner programs.

PREVENTION

• Regularly inspect CKP sensor and wiring for signs of wear, heat damage, or corrosion, especially in areas near the front of the engine where they are exposed to heat and vibration.
• Protect wiring harnesses with loom or conduit to minimize chafing from moving components.
• Ensure proper connector engagement; use dielectric grease sparingly on sensor connectors to reduce corrosion but avoid excessive use on electrical contact surfaces.
• Address moisture intrusion quickly. Water intrusion in sensor connectors can lead to intermittent faults.
• Follow service intervals for timing components as recommended by Jeep for your engine variant. If a timing chain system shows wear, service per the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid cam/crank position sensing issues.
• Use quality replacement parts (OEM or reputable aftermarket) to reduce likelihood of premature failures.

Final notes

• Based on the provided NHTSA data, there are no documented recalls or owner complaints for P0335 on 2019–2023 Jeep Cherokee in the data excerpt. No recalls found in NHTSA database. This guide uses general CKP diagnostics applicable to many modern vehicles and Jeep Cherokee variants, with the caveat that exact wiring, sensor type, and service procedures may vary by engine family and model year.
• If you are not confident performing electrical diagnostics or if the vehicle exhibits aggressive symptoms (no-start, stalling in traffic), seek professional diagnosis promptly to avoid potential safety risks or engine damage.