P0385 – Crankshaft position sensor “B” circuit malfunction

P0385 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0385 is a code that indicates a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor “B” circuit.

What does the fault code mean P0385?

Trouble code P0385 indicates a problem with the crankshaft position sensor “B” circuit. This sensor is responsible for measuring and transmitting engine crankshaft position data to the engine control module (PCM).

Possible reasons

Several possible reasons for the P0385 trouble code:

• Faulty crankshaft position sensor “B”: The sensor itself may be damaged or failed, causing the crankshaft position to be measured incorrectly.
• Problems with wiring and connections: Corrosion, breaks or poor contacts in the wiring or connectors associated with the sensor can result in incorrect signal transmission or signal loss.
• Malfunction in the PCM control module: Problems in the engine control module (PCM) itself, which receives signals from the crankshaft position sensor, can cause P0385.
• Gap or sensor installation problems: Incorrect clearance or improper installation of the crankshaft position sensor may result in incorrect position measurement.
• Power or ground problems: Improper power or grounding of the sensor or PCM can also cause P0385.
• Malfunction in other components of the ignition or engine control system: Faults in other components such as the ignition system or manifold pressure sensors can also cause this error to appear.

These are just some of the possible causes, and more detailed diagnostics may be required to accurately identify and correct the problem.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0385?

Symptoms for DTC P0385 may include the following:

• Difficulty starting the engine: One of the most common symptoms is difficulty starting the engine, especially in low temperatures. A malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can result in improper fuel injection and ignition, making the engine difficult to start.
• Unstable idle: If the crankshaft position sensor malfunctions, the engine idle speed may become unstable, which is manifested in rough engine operation at idle.
• Loss of power: A faulty crankshaft position sensor can cause the engine to lose power, especially at RPM.
• Increased fuel consumption: Improper control of fuel injection and ignition timing may result in increased fuel consumption due to inefficient fuel combustion.
• The appearance of errors on the instrument panel: In some cases, the engine management system may display error messages on the instrument panel related to the operation of the crankshaft position sensor.

These symptoms can occur to varying degrees, depending on the specific cause and how severely damaged or faulty the crankshaft position sensor is.

How to diagnose a fault code P0385?

To diagnose DTC P0385, the following steps are recommended:

1. Checking the error code: Use a scan tool to read the P0385 trouble code from the engine control module (PCM) and make sure it is present.
2. Visual inspection of the crankshaft position sensor: Check the appearance of the crankshaft position sensor and its connections for visible damage, corrosion or loose connections. Pay attention to the correct installation and fixation of the sensor.
3. Checking wiring and connections: Inspect the wiring and connectors connected to the crankshaft position sensor for corrosion, breaks, or poor connections. Check the integrity of the wires and make sure that all connections are secure.
4. Checking the sensor resistance: Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the crankshaft position sensor. Compare the values ​​obtained with the standard values ​​specified in the service manual for your specific vehicle.
5. Checking the sensor signal: Using a diagnostic tool, check the signal from the crankshaft position sensor to the PCM. Make sure the signal is stable and within expected values.
6. PCM diagnostics: If necessary, perform additional tests to verify the operation of the PCM that receives signals from the crankshaft position sensor. Verify that the PCM is functioning correctly and interpreting signals from the sensor correctly.
7. Checking other system components: If all of the above steps do not resolve the problem, check other ignition and engine management system components such as the ignition system, temperature and pressure sensors, connections and wiring.

After diagnostics, you will be able to determine the cause of the malfunction and take measures to eliminate it.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0385, the following errors may occur:

• Incorrect interpretation of error code: The error may occur if the P0385 code is misinterpreted or incorrectly associated with specific vehicle symptoms or problems.
• Diagnostic limitation on crankshaft position sensor: The error may occur if the diagnosis is limited to checking the crankshaft position sensor, ignoring other possible causes, such as problems with the wiring, PCM or other system components.
• Incorrect use of diagnostic equipment: An error may occur if the diagnostic equipment is not used correctly or if the diagnostic requires special equipment that is not used.
• Insufficient testing of system components: The error may occur if insufficient attention is paid to checking other system components that affect the operation of the crankshaft position sensor, such as the ignition system, temperature and pressure sensors, and wiring and connections.
• Wrong decision to replace components: An error may occur if the decision to replace components is made without proper diagnosis or without confirming the cause of the failure, which can lead to unnecessary costs and incorrect repairs.
• Ignoring manufacturer's recommendations: An error may occur if the manufacturer's recommendations for diagnosis and repair are ignored, which may lead to an incorrect solution to the problem.

How serious is the fault code? P0385?

Trouble code P0385 can be serious for the normal operation of the engine, especially if it is associated with improper operation of the crankshaft position sensor. Several reasons why this code may be considered serious:

• Difficulty starting the engine: A malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can cause difficulty starting the engine, especially at low temperatures. This may result in the engine having to be restarted frequently, which can be inconvenient and damage the starting system.
• Loss of power: A malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can cause a loss of engine power, which reduces the overall performance of the vehicle and can lead to an unsatisfactory driving experience.
• Increased fuel consumption: Improper operation of the crankshaft position sensor may result in improper fuel injection and ignition, which may increase vehicle fuel consumption.
• Engine damage: In some cases, a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can cause severe engine damage due to improper timing of the valves and pistons.

Overall, while a P0385 code may not be critical to driving safety, it still requires careful attention and prompt resolution to avoid further damage and keep the engine running properly.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0385?

To resolve DTC P0385, which is related to a problem in the crankshaft position sensor circuit, you can take the following steps:

1. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor: If the sensor fails or is damaged, it is recommended to replace it with a new one. It is important to choose a high-quality spare part that meets the specifications of your vehicle.
2. Checking and replacing wiring and connections: Check the wiring and connections associated with the crankshaft position sensor for corrosion, breaks or poor connections. Replace damaged or defective wires and connections as necessary.
3. Checking and replacing the PCM control module: If the problem is not resolved by replacing the sensor or wiring, the PCM (engine control module) may need to be checked and replaced. Be sure to run additional tests to confirm that the PCM is indeed faulty before replacing it.
4. Checking the gap and sensor installation: Make sure the crankshaft position sensor is installed correctly and has the correct clearance. Incorrect clearance or installation may cause incorrect signals from the sensor.
5. Diagnosis and replacement of other components: Check the operation of other ignition and engine management components such as the ignition system, temperature and pressure sensors, connections and wiring. Replace defective components if necessary.
6. Updating the software: Check for software updates for the PCM and install them if necessary to ensure proper system operation.

After completing these steps, you should test the vehicle to ensure that the problem is resolved and the P0385 trouble code no longer appears. If you are not experienced in car repairs, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center.

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P0385 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0385 can be found on various brands of cars, some of them with a decoding:

1. Ford: On Ford vehicles, the P0385 code may indicate problems with the crankshaft position sensor.
2. Chevrolet / GMC: On Chevrolet and GMC vehicles, P0385 may be related to problems in the crankshaft position sensor circuit.
3. Volkswagen/Audi: For Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, this code may indicate problems with the crankshaft position sensor electrical circuit.
4. Mercedes-Benz: On Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the P0385 code may be related to the crankshaft position sensor not functioning properly.
5. BMW: For BMW vehicles, this code may also indicate problems with the crankshaft position sensor electrical circuit.
6. Toyota / Lexus: On Toyota and Lexus vehicles, P0385 may be associated with a problem with the crankshaft position sensor circuit.

These are just a few examples of vehicle brands that may experience the P0385 code. The meaning of this code may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture of the vehicle. For more accurate information, it is recommended that you consult your service manual or contact a qualified auto mechanic.