P0320 Distributor/Engine Speed ​​Circuit Malfunction

P0320 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0320 indicates a fault in the distributor/engine speed circuit.

What does the fault code mean P0320?

Trouble code P0320 indicates a problem with the crankshaft position/speed sensor circuit in the engine management system.

Possible reasons

Some possible reasons for the P0320 trouble code:

• Malfunction of the crankshaft position sensor: The sensor may be damaged, worn out or malfunctioning.
• Problems with wiring and connections: Opens, shorts, or other problems with the wiring or connections between the sensor and the engine control module (ECM).
• Engine control module (ECM) malfunction: Problems with the ECM itself can cause the sensor to not read the signal correctly.
• Crankshaft problems: For example, wear or damage to the crankshaft may cause the sensor to malfunction.
• Problems with the timing belt or drive chain: Incorrect alignment of the timing belt or crankshaft drive chain may cause erroneous signals from the sensor.
• Malfunction of the ignition system: Problems with the ignition system can cause erroneous signals that interfere with the sensor's operation.
• Problems with the fuel supply system: For example, insufficient or uneven fuel supply may cause incorrect signals.
• Problems with the computer program (firmware): Outdated or incompatible ECM computer software may cause sensor signals to be misinterpreted.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0320?

Some possible symptoms when trouble code P0320 is present:

• Problems with starting the engine: The engine may be difficult to start or may not start at all.
• Unstable engine performance: The engine may run erratically or may not respond to the accelerator pedal.
• Loss of power: There may be a loss of power when accelerating or while driving.
• Increased fuel consumption: Incorrect ignition timing and fuel distribution may increase fuel consumption.
• Jerking or vibration when the engine is running: Improper ignition control may cause the engine to jerk or vibrate when running.
• Other fault codes appear: The P0320 code may cause other related trouble codes to appear, such as misfire codes or crankshaft sensor errors.

It is important to note that symptoms may vary depending on the specific cause of the P0320 trouble code and the characteristics of your particular vehicle.

How to diagnose a fault code P0320?

Diagnosis for trouble code P0320 includes several steps:

1. Checking Error Codes: You must first use a diagnostic scan tool to read all error codes from the engine management system. In addition to the P0320 code, also check for other error codes that may help determine the cause of the problem.
2. Visual inspection of the crankshaft sensor: Check the condition and integrity of the crankshaft sensor. Make sure it is securely fastened and has no visible damage or corrosion.
3. Checking wiring and connections: Carefully inspect the wiring and connectors connecting the crankshaft sensor to the engine control module (ECM). Look for signs of breaks, corrosion or damage.
4. Crankshaft sensor test: Using a multimeter, check the operation of the crankshaft sensor. Make sure it produces the correct signals when the crankshaft rotates.
5. Checking the power circuit: Make sure the crankshaft sensor is receiving sufficient voltage from the vehicle's power system.
6. Check ECM: In some cases, the malfunction may be caused by a faulty ECM. Check its operation and the need for a software update.
7. Repeated diagnostics after repair: After completing all necessary repairs, recheck the vehicle for error codes and ensure that the problem has been completely resolved.

If you are unable to determine the cause of the P0320 code yourself or make the necessary repairs, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0320, the following errors may occur:

• Incorrect sensor diagnosis: If the problem is with the crankshaft sensor, misdiagnosing or improperly testing that sensor may lead to incorrect conclusions and unnecessary parts being replaced.
• Skipping Wiring and Connection Checks: Carefully check the condition of the wiring and connections connecting the crankshaft sensor to the engine control module (ECM). Skipping this step may result in an incorrect diagnosis.
• Incorrect Cause Detection: The problem may lie not only in the crankshaft sensor itself, but also in other components of the ignition or engine management system. Failure to correctly determine and correct the cause may result in the P0320 code reappearing.
• ECM malfunction: If the cause of the problem cannot be found after checking all components and wiring, there may be a problem with the Engine Control Module (ECM) itself. A diagnostic error may result from an incorrect assessment of the ECM's performance.
• Ignoring additional symptoms: Some additional symptoms, such as noises around the crankshaft or trouble starting the engine, may indicate a more complex problem that is not limited to just the crankshaft sensor. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis.

How serious is the fault code? P0320?

Trouble code P0320 is serious because it indicates problems with the crankshaft position and/or speed sensor circuit, which has a direct bearing on engine performance. Possible consequences include:

• Loss of power and unstable engine operation: Improper ignition and fuel management may result in loss of power and unstable engine operation.
• Difficulty starting or inability to start the engine: Incorrect detection of the crankshaft position can lead to difficulty starting the engine or even complete engine failure.
• Increased fuel consumption and negative impact on the environment: Improper engine operation can lead to increased fuel consumption and the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere.
• Engine damage: Running the engine for a long time without proper ignition control may cause engine damage or overheating.

All of these factors make the P0320 trouble code serious, and it is recommended that diagnosis and repair be carried out as soon as possible to prevent possible negative effects on engine performance and condition.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0320?

Resolving the P0320 trouble code may require several steps depending on the specific cause of the problem, some possible repair actions include:

1. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor: If the problem is with the crankshaft position sensor, it will likely need to be replaced. Before replacing the sensor, you need to make sure that the problem is really in the sensor and not in its wiring or connection.
2. Repair or replacement of wiring and connectors: Check the condition of the wiring and connectors connecting the crankshaft sensor to the engine control module (ECM). If damage or corrosion is found, it is necessary to repair or replace the relevant elements.
3. Check and replace ECM: In some cases, the problem may be due to a problem with the Engine Control Module (ECM) itself. Check its operation and replace if necessary.
4. Diagnosing and fixing other problems: If the problem persists after basic repairs, additional testing and repair of other ignition or engine control system components may be required.
5. Preventive maintenance: Once the problem has been corrected, it is recommended to perform preventive maintenance on the ignition and engine management system to prevent similar problems from occurring again.

It is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center for diagnostics and repairs to ensure that the chosen repair approach is correct and that the measures taken are correct.

P0320 Ignition Engine Speed Input Circuit Malfunction 🟢 Trouble Code Symptoms Causes Solutions

P0320 – Brand specific information

Trouble code P0320 can occur on various brands of cars, the decoding of this code for several popular brands:

• Ford: Code P0320 on Ford vehicles means “Crankshaft sensor circuit misfires.”
• Chevrolet: On Chevrolet vehicles, this code means “No signal from the crankshaft position sensor.”
• Toyota: On Toyota vehicles, code P0320 is interpreted as “No crankshaft speed sensor signal.”
• Honda: For Honda, this code means “Crankshaft sensor signal low”.
• Volkswagen: On Volkswagen vehicles, this code indicates “Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction.”

It is important to remember that the meaning of the codes may vary slightly depending on the model and year of the vehicle, so it is always recommended to use official manuals or contact a professional to accurately interpret the fault codes.