AutoCodesCadillac – P0338 Cadillac

P0338 Cadillac Code - Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Duty Cycle

Quick Answer

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) 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 Cadillac indicates Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Duty Cycle.
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 3,873
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 Cadillac Description

The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) 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 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 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 Cadillac - Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Duty Cycle - AutoCodes.com
P0338 Cadillac Code - Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Duty Cycle

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0338 Cadillac?

  • 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 Cadillac?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0338 Cadillac 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 Cadillac code?

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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 Cadillac Code

What does the OBDII code P0338 mean for my Cadillac?

The OBDII code P0338 indicates a high duty cycle in the crankshaft position sensor circuit, which can affect engine timing and performance.

What are common symptoms of the P0338 code?

Common symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, engine misfires, and the Check Engine Light illuminating.

What could cause the P0338 code to trigger?

Potential causes include a faulty crankshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

How can I diagnose the P0338 code?

Start by visually inspecting the crankshaft position sensor wiring and connectors. Use a multimeter to test the sensor’s resistance and check for any short circuits.

Can I drive my Cadillac with the P0338 code?

While it may be possible to drive with this code, it is not recommended as it can lead to poor engine performance and potential damage.

What are some repair tips for fixing the P0338 code?

Repair tips include replacing a faulty crankshaft position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, and clearing the code after repairs to see if it returns.

Will clearing the P0338 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but it won’t fix the underlying issue, and the code is likely to return.

How much does it typically cost to repair a P0338 code?

Repair costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to $400, depending on whether the crankshaft position sensor or wiring needs replacement.

Is there a risk of further damage if I ignore the P0338 code?

Yes, ignoring the P0338 code can lead to further engine performance issues and potentially cause damage to the engine over time.

How can I prevent the P0338 code from returning after repairs?

To prevent the code from returning, ensure that all wiring and connectors are secure and in good condition, and regularly maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

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