Quick Answer
P0338 means: P0338 indicates a problem with the crankshaft position sensor's circuit performance.
Can I drive with P0338? Address immediately to avoid engine performance issues.
Common Questions
What does P0338 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0338 signifies a problem with your crankshaft position sensor, leading to potential issues in engine timing and performance. If left unchecked, it can cause rough idling, stalling, and poor acceleration.
What are the most common causes of P0338 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty crankshaft position sensor (60% of cases), damaged wiring (20%), and poor electrical connections (15%). Repair costs can range from $150 to $300 depending on the issue.
Can I drive my car with P0338 or should I stop immediately?
Driving with a P0338 code is not recommended as it can lead to further engine damage. It's best to address the issue immediately to prevent unsafe driving conditions.
How can I diagnose P0338 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can check for DTC codes, view freeze-frame data, and monitor sensor values in real-time, helping you identify if the crankshaft position sensor is functioning correctly.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0338?
Commonly affected vehicles include the 2007-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2010-2015 Ford Fusion, and 2006-2011 Honda Civic. It's crucial to check for any recalls or TSBs associated with these models.
How can I prevent P0338 from happening again?
Regular maintenance checks, especially on electrical connections and sensors, can prevent P0338. Ensure your vehicle's wiring is protected from heat and moisture to prolong sensor life.
What is P0338?
DTC P0338 indicates a problem with the Crankshaft Position Sensor A circuit performance or range in vehicles. This sensor is crucial in determining the position of the crankshaft, allowing the engine control unit (ECU) to manage ignition timing, fuel injection, and overall engine performance. When the ECU detects a voltage that is outside the expected range from the crankshaft position sensor, it triggers this diagnostic trouble code. Commonly found in vehicles like the 2007-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2010-2015 Ford Fusion, and 2006-2011 Honda Civic, this code can lead to significant engine performance issues. Drivers may experience symptoms such as poor acceleration, rough idling, and even stalling, which could leave them stranded. Ignoring the P0338 code could result in further damage to the engine or drivetrain, making early diagnosis and repair essential for maintaining vehicle reliability and safety. Understanding this code can help car owners seek the right repairs and avoid costly breakdowns.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0338 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating an issue detected by the ECU.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to a frustrating driving experience and potential safety hazards.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, resulting in higher fuel costs and indicating an engine running inefficiently.
- Rough idle and stalling, especially when coming to a stop or during low-speed driving situations.
- Difficulty starting the engine, particularly in colder temperatures or after the vehicle has been parked for extended periods.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0338 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty crankshaft position sensor, which can occur in about 60% of cases. This sensor may fail due to wear or exposure to extreme heat.
- A wiring issue, such as damaged or corroded wires, accounts for around 20% of cases. These wiring issues can disrupt the signal being sent to the ECU.
- Poor electrical connections at the sensor or ECU can cause intermittent failures, which is approximately 15% of the cases. Regular inspections can help identify these issues early.
- Less common but serious causes include a malfunctioning ECU, which can misinterpret sensor data and lead to significant engine problems.
- A rare cause could be a timing belt or chain issue, affecting the crankshaft's alignment and its relationship to the camshaft.
P0338 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty crankshaft position sensor with a new OEM part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connections in the crankshaft sensor circuit.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for P0338
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0338 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0338. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the crankshaft position sensor's voltage and resistance (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the crankshaft position sensor's voltage and resistance (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the crankshaft position sensor after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the crankshaft position sensor after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for any returning symptoms (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for any returning symptoms (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Crankshaft Sensor Replacement in a 2010 Ford Fusion
Vehicle: 2010 Ford Fusion, 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported rough idling and check engine light activation.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed P0338; visual inspection found corroded sensor wiring.
Solution: Replaced the crankshaft position sensor and repaired damaged wiring.
Cost: $240 (sensor replacement $180, wiring repair $60)
Result: Post-repair, the check engine light was cleared and the vehicle ran smoothly with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair for a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, 95,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced intermittent stalling and poor acceleration.
Diagnosis: P0338 was stored; inspection showed frayed wiring at the crankshaft position sensor.
Solution: Repaired wiring connections and replaced the connector to ensure a solid electrical signal.
Cost: $130 (wiring repair $70, connector $60)
Result: The customer reported improved performance and no further stalling since the repair.