P0320 OBD-II: Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit
P0320 Severity
Should you fix P0320 yourself?
Identifying an OBD code is just the start of a complete diagnostic routine. Most trouble codes are caused by a sensor reporting a value that is out of range. Just replacing a sensor may not fix underlying issues. Be sure to understand the code, the part or system in your car that the code refers to, and the risks of delaying professional repair.
Proper diagnosis will save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
Urgent codes indicate immediate action is necessary. These are urgent and significant malfunctions that can cause severe damage to the vehicle or harm the driver and passengers.
What causes OBD-II fault code P0320?
The Crankshaft Position Sensor measures the exact rotational speed and position of the crankshaft. This provides a critical data signal used by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to control Ignition Spark Timing and Fuel Delivery. This sensor may be built into the distributor on older vehicles. When the PCM detects an irregular signal or no signal, it will set code P0320.
What Does P0320 Code Mean?
What does this mean?
The Distributor/Crankshaft Position Sensor measures the exact rotational speed and position of the crankshaft. This provides a critical data signal used by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to control Ignition Spark Timing and Fuel Delivery.
Code P0320 is triggered when the Distributor/Crankshaft Position Sensor signal is interrupted, unreliable or irrational.
P0320 Symptoms
- Check Engine Light will illuminate
- In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed
- Hard starting/cranking without starting
- Engine hesitation or stalling
- Engine dies and will not re-start
Common Problems That Trigger the P0320 Code
- Defective Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Faulty or corroded Crankshaft Position Sensor wiring or connections
- Defective Camshaft Position Sensor
- Rough running/misfiring Engine
Common Misdiagnoses
- Crankshaft Position Sensor is replaced when the cause is a defective Camshaft Position Sensor
- Crankshaft Position Sensor is replaced when the cause is a poor connection or chafed wiring
- Crankshaft Position Sensor is replaced when the cause is a misfiring engine
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