P0335 Code: Nissan Altima (2019-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction — 2019-2023 Nissan Altima: Comprehensive Diagnostic Guide

Important data note (data limitations)

• The provided NHTSA data for this exact make/model/year/issue shows:
  • No owner complaints found
  • No recalls found in NHTSA database
• Therefore, no recalls or TSBs are cited here. All statistics below reflect the stated data (no complaints, no recalls), and general automotive knowledge is used for technical explanations.
• This guide uses general CKP (crankshaft position sensor) troubleshooting practices adapted for the Nissan Altima 2019–2023 platform. Specific vehicle nuances can vary by engine variant (2.5L I4, VC-Turbo 2.0L, etc.). If you have a service manual for your exact engine code, follow its CKP testing specs.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0335 — Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
• What it means: The PCM/ECU detected a fault in the circuit supplying or reading the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) “A” signal. This disrupts the PCM’s ability to know the engine’s exact crank position, which is critical for spark timing and fuel injection.
• Severity and symptoms you may experience:
  • Engine may not start or may stall shortly after starting
  • Intermittent no-start or hard-start conditions
  • Rough idle, misfires, or engine running in limp mode
  • Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated
  • Possible loss of acceleration or timing-related engine performance

COMMON CAUSES ON NISSAN ALTIMA

• Faulty CKP sensor itself (A circuit)
  • Sensor may be defective, failing to generate a proper signal
• Damaged or corroded CKP sensor wiring harness or connector
  • Open circuit, short to ground, or poor dielectric sealing
• Faulty or damaged reluctor/wheel on the crankshaft
  • Teeth or tone ring damage causing irregular signal
• Poor sensor installation or misalignment (if recently replaced)
• PCM/ECU fault (less common, but possible)
• Contamination or oil/Engine sludge near the sensor
  • Oil leaks around the sensor mount can degrade signal
• Intermittent grounding issues
  • Ground path problems can mimic a bad signal

SYMPTOMS (typical for P0335 on Altima)

• Engine cranks but does not start, or stalls after starting
• Stuttering, intermittent starting, or stalling during idle
• Check Engine Light with DTC P0335
• Severe misfires or rough running when the signal is erratic
• No or weak fuel-cut/ignition timing control due to lost CKP signal
• In some cases, transmission of timing data to the ECU is degraded, triggering limp mode

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Plan: Confirm the DTC, inspect wiring, test the sensor circuit, and verify signal integrity. Be systematic to avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.

A. Preliminary checks

• Confirm the DTC with an OBD-II scanner and note freeze-frame data, engine temperature, RPM, and load conditions.
• Check for any other codes that might indicate related sensor issues (e.g., P0336, P0339, or cam/crank related codes).
• Ensure battery condition and charging system are healthy. A weak battery can cause false or intermittent sensor readings.

B. Visual inspection

• Inspect CKP sensor housing and wiring harness for damage, chafing, oil intrusion, or loose connectors.
• Check the ground connection for the CKP circuit; look for corrosion or loose grounds on the PCM/engine ground strap.
• Inspect the crankshaft pulley area and the reluctor wheel for damage or debris.

C. Electrical checks (with engine off and key out)

• Locate CKP sensor connector and back-probe the 3 wires (typical for many Nissan CKP sensors: 5V reference, ground, signal). If the Altima uses a 2- or 3-wire setup, adapt accordingly.
• Verify reference voltage from PCM to CKP sensor (usually ~5V). If no reference is present, the problem lies in wiring or PCM.
• Verify grounding path from CKP sensor to ground is solid (low resistance to ground).

D. Signal checks during cranking

• With a multimeter or oscilloscope (preferred), observe the CKP signal while cranking:
  • You should see a clean pulsed signal corresponding to crankshaft teeth/reluctor teeth passing the sensor.
  • Intermittent or absent signal indicates either sensor, wiring, or reluctor issues.
• If you have access to an oscilloscope, capture a live CKP waveform during cranking. Look for a consistent, square-wave-like signal with regular tooth-to-tooth spacing. A flat line or highly erratic signal indicates a fault in the sensor, wiring, or reluctor.

E. Sensor and circuit testing approaches

• Swap test (if you have a known-good CKP sensor for the same engine variant):
  • If the fault resolves with a new/known-good sensor, the original was faulty.
• Wiring harness test:
  • Check for poor pin connection, bent pins, or corrosion in the connector. Clean or repair as needed.
  • Inspect the loom for damaged insulation or exposure to heat/oil.
• Reluctor ring/Crankshaft area:
  • If the CKP signal looks physically abnormal or if the sensor is producing a borderline signal, inspect the reluctor wheel for cracks, missing teeth, or misalignment.
• PCM/ECU test:
  • If all wiring and sensor tests pass but the code persists, a PCM fault is possible but less common. Ensure software/firmware is up to date per Nissan service data.

F. Repair verification

• After any repair (sensor replacement, wiring repair, or reluctor inspection), clear codes and perform a test drive or multiple engine starts to verify the fault code does not return.
• If P0335 reappears, re-check wiring, grounding, and sensor alignment. Consider rechecking the timing component if the engine has had timing tensioner/chain work recently.

RELATED CODES

• Related crankshaft/camshaft system codes you might see alongside or instead of P0335:
  • 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 A Circuit Intermittent
• Related CAMshaft/Timing hints may appear as separate codes (P0340, P0341, etc.) if there are cam position sensing or timing reference issues.
• Note: The above related codes are commonly associated with crank/cam position sensing in many vehicles; verify exact code categories for your engine variant using your service manual or OEM data.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 prices)

Prices vary by region, labor rates, and whether you use OEM parts or aftermarket. The estimates below are typical ranges you might expect in North America for 2019–2023 Nissan Altima.

• CKP sensor replacement (simple to moderate access)

  • Parts: $20–$120 (OEM typically higher; aftermarket cheaper)
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
  • Total: $120–$350
  • Notes: If the sensor is easy to access (some Altima engines), replacement is straightforward.

• CKP sensor wiring/connector repair (pigtail, harness repair, connector replacement)

  • Parts: $5–$60 (repair connectors or pigtails)
  • Labor: 0.5–2.0 hours
  • Total: $100–$350
  • Notes: Often combined with sensor replacement if wiring is damaged.

• Reluctor ring or crankshaft area inspection/repair

  • Parts: Usually minimal for wiring; timing cover work may be involved if the reluctor ring is damaged
  • Labor: 2.0–6.0 hours (depending on engine and accessibility)
  • Total: $300–$1,200
  • Notes: If timing cover removal is required, costs rise significantly.

• Timing cover removal for CKP access (rare but possible)

  • Parts: Seal kits (if leaking) and gaskets
  • Labor: 4.0–8.0 hours
  • Total: $500–$1,800
  • Notes: This is a more extensive repair and can be costly.

• PCM/ECU replacement or reprogramming

  • Parts: $300–$1,000 (used or refurbished ECU cheaper; new OEM possibly $1,000–$2,000)
  • Labor/Programming: $100–$400
  • Total: $500–$2,400
  • Notes: Only consider if sensor and wiring tests prove no hardware fault and software/firmware issue is suspected.

• Aftermarket vs OEM parts

  • Aftermarket CKP sensors are typically cheaper but ensure compatibility with the 2019–2023 Altima engine variant.
  • OEM parts typically offer the best-fit reliability for critical engine-management sensors.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY suitability
  • Easy to moderate: Replacing the CKP sensor on many engines is straightforward if it is accessible from the front of the engine (often near the crank pulley or timing cover). Expect to disconnect electrical connectors, remove the mounting bolt(s), and swap the sensor.
  • Moderate tools: Ratchet, appropriate socket, Torx if used, small extensions, and sometimes a magnet for retaining bolts. A multimeter or basic oscilloscope is helpful but not strictly required.
  • Cautions: If the sensor is behind the timing cover or requires timing cover removal, this becomes a major job. Work safely, decompress the battery, and follow service instructions for lock tabs, seals, and torque specs.
• Professional suitability
  • If the CKP sensor is not easily accessible, if there is any sign of wiring damage, or if timing-cover work is likely, a professional shop is advised.
  • A professional will have the necessary diagnostic scan tools (OEM-level scan tools), the ability to confirm 5V reference, verify ground integrity, capture CKP waveform, and perform any required relearn procedures.
• Relearn procedures
  • Some engines require a crankshaft position sensor relearn after replacement. Check your Nissan service data for whether a relearn is required for your exact engine variant. If needed, the relearn procedure is typically done with a scan tool and in certain cases may require driving cycles to complete.

PREVENTION

• Regularly inspect sensor wiring and connectors for signs of oil leaks, heat damage, or corrosion. Clean and protect connectors as needed.
• Maintain proper engine oil levels and address leaks promptly; oil on the sensor can degrade signal quality.
• Ensure the front crank area is free of debris and oil buildup that could affect the reluctor or sensor alignment.
• If you perform timing work, confirm proper clearance, torque, and alignment per service instructions to avoid triggering CKP-related faults.
• Use consistent maintenance intervals to avoid sudden electrical issues; keep battery and alternator in good condition to avoid voltage dips that can confuse sensors.
• Protect connectors from moisture and road contaminants; use dielectric grease where appropriate to improve seal life.

Bottom line

• P0335 on a 2019–2023 Nissan Altima points to a fault in the Crankshaft Position Sensor A circuit or its wiring/reluctor. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the CKP sensor, its wiring, and connectors; test for proper 5V reference and ground; verify a clean CKP signal during cranking. Replace the sensor if the signal is absent or inconsistent, or repair wiring if a harness fault is found. If the issue persists after sensor and wiring work, inspect the crankshaft reluctor and consider PCM issues. Always clear codes after repair and verify that the fault does not return with a road test or repeated starts.