AutoCodes – Generic – P0338

P0338 Code - Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit High Input

Quick Answer

The Crankshaft position sensor also known as the crank position sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the crankshaft is spinning. Common causes include Faulty crankshaft position sensor, Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted, Crankshaft position sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0338 indicates Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit High Input.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty crankshaft position sensor, Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted, Crankshaft position sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 34,870
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0338 Description

The Crankshaft position sensor also known as the crank position sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the crankshaft is spinning. This information is used by the Electronic Control Module(ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disc, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.
When the engine is running, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The change in the magnetic field cause the voltage from the sensor to change.
OBDII Code P0338 - Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com
P0338 Code - Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit High Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0338?

  • Faulty crankshaft position sensor
  • Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Crankshaft position sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Signal plate may be damage
  • Starter motor may be faulty
  • Starting system circuit
  • Dead or weak battery

How to Fix the DTC P0338?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0338 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0338 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0338 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0338 (Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit High Input)?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, stalling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What can cause OBDII code P0338 to trigger?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty crankshaft position sensor, wiring issues, or a malfunction in the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0338?

- Diagnosing the code typically involves testing the crankshaft position sensor, inspecting its wiring for damage, and checking the engine control module for faults.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P0338 active?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential breakdowns.

5. Can a faulty crankshaft position sensor cause OBDII code P0338?

- Yes, a faulty crankshaft position sensor is a common cause of this code, as it can send incorrect signals to the engine control module.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0338?

- Repairing the code typically involves replacing the crankshaft position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, and clearing the code from the engine control module.

7. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code P0338?

- DIY tips include checking the sensor's connection, inspecting the wiring for visible damage, and ensuring the sensor is properly aligned and secured.

8. Can weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P0338?

- Extreme weather conditions can sometimes affect the performance of the crankshaft position sensor, leading to the triggering of this code.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P0338?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the code, but it typically takes a few hours to diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.

10. Will OBDII code P0338 cause permanent damage to the vehicle if left unrepaired?

- Ignoring this code can lead to further engine damage and decreased performance over time, so it is best to address the issue promptly.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0338 OBDII Code

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