Your 7th Gen (EM2/ES1), 8th Gen (FA5/FG2), 9th Gen (FB6/FG4), 10th Gen (FC1/FK7), or 11th Gen (FL1/FL5) Civic just threw a P0335 — and this code typically indicates a no-start condition.
P0335 is the code for “Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit Malfunction”. The ECU is indicating that it cannot detect the Crankshaft position sensor (CKP) signal. Without this signal, the ECU cannot determine piston position. Spark and fuel delivery may be disabled. The engine may crank without starting.
Unlike misfire or Knock Sensor codes where the engine may still operate, P0335 often results in a no-start condition. The starter may spin, but the engine may not fire. The tachometer may remain AT 0 RPM during cranking.
Here is a garage-tested breakdown of what P0335 actually means on these cars, and how to repair it without unnecessary expense at the dealership.
P0335 Breakdown: Understanding the CKP Signal Loss
P0335 (“CKP Sensor Circuit Malfunction”) indicates that the ECU is receiving no signal from the crankshaft position sensor.
The CKP sensor provides the ECU with crankshaft position data. The ECU uses this information to time spark and fuel delivery. Without a CKP signal, the ECU may not enable spark or fuel injection.
No Flashing CEL: The check engine light may remain steady. The tachometer may not register RPM during cranking. With an OBD2 scanner, checking Engine RPM in live data during cranking — if it shows 0 RPM, the CKP signal is absent.
The Symptoms:
- Engine cranks but does not start — the starter operates without engine firing
- Tachometer remains at 0 RPM during cranking (key indicator)
- Check engine light with P0335 stored
- No spark, no fuel — the ECU may disable both
- Engine died while driving and will not restart
- Intermittent stalling — the code may appear and clear
The OBD2 Live Data Check
Before beginning component replacement, perform this diagnostic test with an OBD2 scanner.
Step 1: Connect the OBD2 scanner and navigate to Live Data.
Step 2: Locate the parameter for Engine RPM.
Step 3: Crank the engine and observe the RPM reading.
The Verdict:
- If 0 RPM is displayed while cranking: The CKP sensor or its circuit is not functioning. Diagnose and repair.
- If 150-300 RPM is displayed while cranking: The CKP sensor is functioning. The issue may be elsewhere (Fuel Pump, ignition, etc.).
This test can help direct diagnosis.
Common Failure Modes Causing P0335
1. Failed CKP Sensor.
The sensor may fail from age and heat. The internal magnetic pickup or Hall-effect sensor may cease to function, and the ECU may receive no signal. This is a common cause on higher-mileage vehicles.
2. Wiring Harness Damage.
The CKP sensor wiring runs along the front of the engine block, exposed to road salt, water, and debris. Over time, insulation may crack and wires may corrode or short. Rodents may also damage wiring insulation. If the harness is damaged, the sensor signal may not reach the ECU.
3. Sensor Gap or Trigger Wheel Issue.
The CKP sensor requires a specific air gap between its tip and the trigger wheel (flywheel or crank pulley). If the gap is incorrect, the sensor may not read the teeth. On K-series engines, this can occur after a clutch or flywheel replacement if the sensor is disturbed or the flywheel is installed incorrectly.
Generation-Specific Accessibility & Considerations
8th & 9th Gen Base Models (R18 / 1.8L):
- ⚠️ The Location and Exposure. On the R18 engine, the CKP sensor is located at the bottom of the engine block, behind the crankshaft pulley. It is exposed to road debris.
- A splash shield provides some protection, but road salt and water can still reach the area. Over time, corrosion may affect the connector and the wiring may chafe.
- Access: The sensor can be reached from underneath by removing the right front wheel and the plastic fender liner.
- Part number: Verify by VIN (typically Denso or Hitachi).
8th & 9th Gen Si (K20Z3 / K24Z7):
- ⚠️ The Transmission Mounted Sensor. On K-Series engines, the CKP sensor is mounted on the transmission bellhousing, reading the trigger wheel on the flywheel.
- Known Consideration: After clutch or flywheel replacement, the sensor wiring may be pinched between the bellhousing and the block, or the flywheel may be installed with incorrect clearance. This can result in P0335 immediately after the service.
- Access: The sensor is accessible from underneath, but the wiring routing near the transmission should be inspected. Check the harness where it passes the bellhousing.
- Part number: Verify by VIN.
10th & 11th Gen 1.5T (L15B7 / Direct Injection):
- ⚠️ Timing Chain Stretch Consideration. On the L15B7 turbo engine, timing chain stretch can affect synchronization between the crankshaft and Camshaft sensors.
- The ECU may detect the CKP and CMP signals out of sync. This can result in P0340 (camshaft sensor) or occasionally P0335.
- Pro Tip: If the CKP sensor is replaced and the code returns immediately, inspect the Timing Chain for stretch. On the L15B7, chain stretch can be checked through the timing chain inspection window on the front cover.
- Access: The CKP sensor is on the front of the engine block, near the crankshaft pulley.
- Part number: Verify by VIN.
10th & 11th Gen Type R (K20C1, FK8/FL5):
- On the K20C1, the CKP sensor is similar to the K20Z3 — mounted on the transmission bellhousing, reading the flywheel.
- If running a lightweight flywheel with a custom tune, ensure the flywheel is correctly installed. A misaligned flywheel or incorrect sensor gap can cause P0335.
- Part number: Verify by VIN.
The Relearn Procedure & Aftermarket Sensor Considerations
⚠️ The Crankshaft Position Relearn — Do Not Skip.
On many Hondas, replacing the CKP sensor alone may not be sufficient. The ECU may need to relearn the sensor’s signal pattern. If this procedure is skipped, the engine may run rough, Misfire, or the code may return.
A bidirectional scan tool (such as Launch, Autel, or Honda HDS) is required to perform the Crankshaft Position Relearn procedure (also called CKP Pulse Noise Learning).
Sensor Quality Matters:
The CKP sensor generates a high-frequency signal. Inexpensive sensors may not withstand the heat and vibration and may fail quickly. Use OEM Honda, Denso, or Hitachi sensors.
Parts, Cost Breakdown & US Sourcing
| Part | Fits | OEM Part Number | Online Cost | Dealer Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CKP Sensor (Denso) | 8th Gen R18 | Verify by VIN | $60–$95 | $120–$180 |
| CKP Sensor (Hitachi) | 8th/9th Gen K-series | Verify by VIN | $65–$100 | $130–$190 |
| CKP Sensor (Denso) | 10th Gen L15B7 1.5T | Verify by VIN | $70–$110 | $140–$210 |
| CKP Sensor Pigtail Harness | All Generations | Aftermarket / Honda repair pigtail | $10–$15 | $30–$50 |
| Timing Chain Kit (L15B7) | 10th Gen 1.5T | Verify by VIN | $200–$400 | $500–$800 |
Repair Cost Breakdown
| Repair | DIY Cost | Independent Shop | Honda Dealer |
|---|---|---|---|
| CKP Sensor Replacement (R18) | $60–$95 | $150–$250 | $250–$400 |
| CKP Sensor Replacement (K-series) | $65–$100 | $180–$300 | $300–$450 |
| CKP Sensor Replacement (L15B7) | $70–$110 | $200–$350 | $320–$480 |
| Wiring Harness Repair | $10–$15 (pigtail) | $150–$300 | $250–$450 |
| Timing Chain Replacement (L15B7) | $200–$400 | $800–$1,200 | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Dealer Diagnostic Fee | N/A | N/A | $120–$200 |
Sourcing Tip: We track live market rates and cross-reference part numbers directly from US OEM catalogs such as HondaPartsNow and popular distributors like RockAuto and Fitment Industries.
Used Buyer Warning
If you are test-driving a Civic that cranks but does not start with a P0335 code, proceed with caution.
If the seller claims it just needs a cheap sensor — negotiate accordingly or consider walking away.
Why this matters:
- 8th/9th Gen K-series: If the seller recently performed a clutch job and now has P0335, the wiring may have been pinched between the bellhousing and the block. This can be a $200–$300 electrical diagnosis.
- 10th/11th Gen 1.5T: If the code returns after replacing the sensor, timing chain stretch may be the issue — a $1,200–$2,000 repair.
- Rodent Damage: If the seller says “it just needs a sensor,” inspect the Wiring Harness for chewed insulation.
- If the seller cannot clear the code and start the vehicle, consider this a warning sign.
Used buyer rule: P0335 with claims of a simple sensor replacement should be treated with caution — inspect the wiring, sensor gap, and timing components, or have the vehicle evaluated by a professional.
Quick Reference Checklist
☐ P0335 = CKP Sensor Circuit Malfunction — ECU receives no signal from the crankshaft position sensor
☐ Engine cranks but does not start? This is the primary symptom of P0335
☐ Tachometer remains at 0 RPM while cranking? Key indicator — the ECU is not receiving the crank signal
☐ Check Live Data for Engine RPM — 0 RPM while cranking indicates a CKP sensor or circuit issue
☐ 8th/9th Gen R18: Sensor is at the bottom of the block behind the crank pulley — check for corrosion and chafed wiring
☐ 8th/9th Gen K-series: Sensor is on the transmission bellhousing — inspect for pinched wiring after clutch/flywheel work
☐ 10th/11th Gen L15B7: If the code returns after sensor replacement, suspect timing chain stretch — inspect Chain tension through the inspection window
☐ CKP Relearn Procedure — required after sensor replacement on many Hondas. A bidirectional scan tool (Launch, Autel, HDS) is required
☐ Avoid low-cost sensors — they may not withstand heat and vibration
☐ Use OEM Honda, Denso, or Hitachi — these are the only sensors that provide reliable operation
☐ Check the sensor gap — the sensor tip should be close to the trigger wheel without contact
☐ Inspect for rodent damage — wiring insulation may be damaged
☐ Used Buyer Rule — P0335 on K-series after clutch work may indicate pinched wiring; on L15B7, possible Timing Chain Stretch. Thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.