P0335 Code: Jeep Wrangler (2018-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction) — Comprehensive diagnostic guide for 2018–2023 Jeep Wrangler

Important data note (per the provided dataset)

• Recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database for this make/model/year.
• Complaints: No NHTSA complaints found for this combination.
• Data limitation: The absence of recalls/complaints in the provided data does not guarantee the issue cannot occur in the real world. The guide below combines standard OBD-II diagnostic practices with Wrangler-specific considerations, plus typical repair costs as of 2025.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Definition: P0335 = Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction. The PCM is not receiving a valid signal from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) on the primary sensor circuit.
• What it implies: The engine’s timing reference is compromised, which can prevent starting or cause intermittent running. The vehicle may run poorly, stall, misfire, or fail to restart.
• Severity: Moderate to high. Can cause a no-start condition and potential stalling while driving, which is a safety concern. Depending on the scenario, you may still be able to drive temporarily, but performance will be degraded and a repair is needed.

COMMON CAUSES ON JEEP WRANGLER

• Faulty CKP sensor itself (aged sensors, heat and vibration exposure, or manufacturing defect)
• Damaged or corroded CKP sensor wiring harness, connectors, or grounds (frayed insulation, loose pins, water intrusion, off-road debris)
• Faulty or damaged reluctor ring (the toothed wheel on the crankshaft) or timing components (rare, but can disrupt the CKP signal)
• Power/ground issues to the CKP sensor (voltage supply or signal ground problems)
• PCM/ECU fault (less common; typically a symptom after a sensor/wiring issue)
• Wiring routing issues (harnesses rubbing on belts/pulleys or near hot exhaust areas)
• Intermittent faults due to temperature changes or after engine repairs

SYMPTOMS

• Check Engine Light (CEL) with P0335 stored or pending
• Hard starting or no-start conditions
• Engine stalls or misfires; rough idle
• Poor acceleration, reduced power, or limp mode behavior
• Intermittent drivability issues, especially after heat soak or during off-road use
• In some cases, no other codes may be present and P0335 may be the only DTC

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Perform steps in a logical sequence and document findings. Use appropriate safety procedures and PPE.

• Step 1: Verify the code and data

  • Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0335 and check freeze-frame data (engine speed, RPM, load, temps at the time of the fault).
  • Check for any related codes (P0336–P0339) that could indicate a degraded CKP signal or a different timing reference issue.

• Step 2: Visual inspection of CKP sensor and harness

  • Locate the CKP sensor (usually on the engine front near the crank pulley on the Wrangler’s 3.6L Pentastar and other available engines).
  • Inspect the sensor for damage, oil leaks, corrosion, or debris.
  • Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for signs of wear, chafing, loose connectors, bent pins, or water intrusion. Pay special attention to routing near belts, pulleys, and heat sources.
  • Disconnect and inspect the connector for corrosion; reseat with a clean, dry connection. Use dielectric grease on a dry, clean connector if appropriate.

• Step 3: Electrical tests (readiness and references)

  • With the ignition off, back-probe the CKP sensor circuit using a multimeter or appropriate diagnostic tool.
  • Check the 5-volt reference signal and ground from the PCM to the CKP sensor (if the vehicle provides access to reference and ground pins via the diagnostic connector or wiring diagram).
  • Verify the CKP sensor signal wire continuity to the PCM and check for opens, shorts to ground, or shorts to power.
  • If a scope is available, monitor the CKP sensor output waveform while cranking. A healthy CKP signal is a clean, consistent switching waveform; a missing or erratic signal indicates sensor, wiring, or reluctor issues.

• Step 4: Sensor and reluctor evaluation

  • If the CKP sensor is easily accessible, consider removing and inspecting it for physical damage. Some Wrangler setups allow sensor replacement without major disassembly.
  • Inspect the crankshaft reluctor ring for damage, misalignment, or debris that could impede the sensor’s reading.
  • Look for alignment issues or movement that could alter the sensor’s air gap.

• Step 5: Mechanical timing considerations

  • While P0335 is an electrical/sensor circuit fault, severe timing issues can mimic CKP problems. If you suspect timing chain tensioner or belt failure (not typical for the CKP code but possible in edge cases), consult a timing component inspection including checking chain slack and tensioner operation.
  • If timing components are suspected, this becomes a more involved repair and may require specialist service.

• Step 6: Component replacement or repair

  • If the CKP sensor shows signs of damage or the waveform test confirms a bad sensor, replace the CKP sensor.
  • If wiring or connectors are damaged, repair or replace the affected harness segment and restore proper continuity and insulation.
  • After any repair, clear DTCs, start the engine, and test drive to verify the issue is resolved and no new codes appear.
  • If the code persists after replacing the sensor and repairing wiring, investigate PCM ground/reference integrity or consider PCM replacement as a last resort (rare).

• Step 7: Confirmation and road test

  • After repairs, perform a road test to confirm that the engine starts reliably and runs smoothly across RPM ranges and temperatures.
  • Re-scan for codes to ensure P0335 is cleared and no new codes appear.

RELATED CODES

• P0336: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
• P0337: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input
• P0338: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input
• P0339: Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit (varies by model; often another CKP channel or a related sensor on some engines)
  Note: In Jeep Wrangler applications, CKP-related codes often appear in families (P0335–P0339). If multiple CKP codes appear, the problem is more likely wiring, connector, or sensor integrity rather than a single faulty sensor only.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)

Prices vary by region, shop, and exact engine option (3.6L V6 Pentastar vs. 2.0L turbo). The figures below are typical ranges you might see in 2025 for a 2018–2023 Wrangler.

• CKP sensor replacement (most common fix)

  • Parts: $20–$120 (depends on OEM vs aftermarket; many Wrangler sensors are in the $30–$70 range)
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours (more if the sensor is hard to reach or requires accessory removal)
  • Estimated total: $100–$300

• Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement

  • Parts: $10–$100 (depending on extent of damage)
  • Labor: 1–2 hours
  • Estimated total: $100–$350

• PCM/ECU-related repair or replacement (rare)

  • Parts: $350–$900 (new PCM)
  • Labor: 1–4 hours
  • Estimated total: $600–$1,900
  • Note: PCM replacement is uncommon for P0335 and is typically a last resort after sensor and harness checks.

• Timing components (reluctor ring, tensioner, chains) if involved

  • Parts: $100–$600 (or more for full timing chain kit)
  • Labor: 3–6+ hours
  • Estimated total: $800–$2,500+
  • Note: This is uncommon for P0335 alone but could be considered if timing issues are discovered during diagnostics.

• Miscellaneous costs

  • Diagnostic fees (if performed at a shop): $50–$150 (often waived with repair)
  • Taxes and shop fees vary by location

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY considerations
  • Pros: Lower cost, satisfaction of completing your own repair, good for basic CKP sensor replacement if easily accessible.
  • Cons: Working near engine timing components, electrical harnesses, and the PCM can be tricky. Risk of misdiagnosis if you skip steps or misinterpret signals. Proper use of tools (multimeter, oscilloscope) is helpful.
  • Suitable for: A straightforward CKP sensor replacement in a Wrangler where the sensor is accessible without removing major components; if you can comfortably test wiring continuity and voltage references, DIY is reasonable.
• Professional considerations
  • Pros: Accurate diagnosis (via scope and waveform testing), correct diagnosis of wiring faults vs sensor faults, proper handling of timing-related concerns, reliable diagnostics and warranty on work.
  • Cons: Higher upfront cost.
  • When to choose a pro: If the CKP wiring shows damage, if the sensor replacement does not resolve the issue, if you do not have access to a scope/advanced diagnostic tools, or if timing components are suspected.

PREVENTION

• Regularly inspect under-hood wiring for wear due to heat, vibration, or off-road use. Look for chafing near belts, pulleys, and the crank area.
• Keep connectors clean and dry; reseat connectors if corrosion is suspected. Use dielectric grease on connectors during reassembly if appropriate.
• Address oil leaks promptly. Motor oil or coolant leaks near the sensor can contaminate wiring or sensors.
• Use high-quality OEM or OEM-equivalent CKP sensor parts to ensure compatibility and long-term reliability.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to water and debris in off-road conditions; after extreme off-roading, visually inspect the area around the sensor for damage.
• Schedule regular maintenance checks that include electrical system inspection, especially if the vehicle is used off-road or in harsh environments.

Data limitations and caveats

• The provided data shows no recalls and no NHTSA complaints for 2018–2023 Wrangler with this issue. This does not guarantee the absence of CKP problems in the real world; it only reflects the data snippet given.
• The repair costs listed are ballpark estimates for 2025 and may vary by region, labor rates, dealer vs independent shop, and the exact Wrangler engine option.
• If another related code appears (e.g., P0336–P0339), follow the diagnostic flow for CKP circuit range/performance or input issues; sometimes a wiring fault will produce multiple CKP-related codes.