P0338 OBD-II Trouble Code: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input

P0338 code definition

The P0338 Trouble Code indicates an error with the crankshaft position sensor A circuit high input.

What the P0338 code means

The powertrain control module has found that the crankshaft position sensor, or CPS, is not performing properly.

What causes the P0338 code?

A number of different things could cause the P0338 code to appear. The following are the common causes:

• Damaged crankshaft sensor.
• Damaged sensor connector.
• Damaged electrical wiring.
• Broken crankshaft reductor rings.
• Broken timing belt.
• Faulty powertrain control module, although this is rare.

What are the symptoms of the P0338 code?

When a vehicle has a P0338 code stored, it can suffer from a number of different symptoms. The Check Engine Lamp might be illuminated. In addition, the engine might not start at all. The engine could misfire, or it could sound and feel rough when it is idling. The acceleration might feel choppy, and the overall engine performance could be negatively affected. In addition, the driver may notice that the fuel economy has diminished.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0338 code?

A mechanic will make use of the OBD-II scanner by connecting it to the vehicle’s onboard computer. They will gather data about the vehicle and the code, or codes, that have been stored. They will then want to reset the codes and test the vehicle. They do this to make sure that the codes were not stored by mistake and that there is actually something wrong with the vehicle.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0338 code

If the mechanic does not do a thorough job of checking the timing elements of the vehicle when replacing a timing belt, it could lead to a misdiagnosis, as the engine might not start after the repair. They need to check every part of the system including the wiring and the connectors.

How serious is the P0338 code?

The P0338 can be a problem for your vehicle. If you are fortunate, you might only have to deal with a Check Engine Light that will not go off. However, many vehicles that have this code have a number of other problems. You might not be able to start your vehicle. If it does start, it could be much more difficult to drive. When you have any codes stored in your vehicle, it is important to have them checked out by a professional mechanic. They can fix the code and repair the vehicle.

What repairs can fix the P0338 code?

The following are some of the repairs that mechanics might use when they are trying to fix the P0338 code.

• They will use the OBD-II sensor to learn more about the vehicle’s issues.
• The mechanic will reset the codes and then test the vehicle to see if they return.
• They check the connectors and wiring to make sure it is connected properly and not corroded.
• Check the relator rings and replace if needed.
• Check the timing belt and replace if needed.
• Replace the powertrain control module. This is rarely the cause of the issue though.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0338 code

If you have a vehicle that has any codes stored, it is important to have them checked out as soon as possible by a mechanic. It might be true that older vehicles with a lot of miles on them could present false alarm codes, you do not want to take any chances with your vehicle. If it doesn’t start, or if the engine suddenly starts performing poorly, it can make getting around very difficult. It’s better to be safe rather than sorry. You want to make sure that you have all of the codes checked out and your vehicle repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Need help with a P0338 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.