What P0322 means
P0322 means the speed and reference input of the ignition – today the crankshaft position sensor – delivers no signal although the engine is turning.
How the engine computer detects it
Ford proves the rotation with the camshaft sensor: if it shows more than one engine revolution without a crank signal (from 500 rpm, detected within 5 s), Ford sets P0322 or, depending on the engine, P0335; with electronic throttle the throttle software adds P2106 and goes into limp mode. Without a crank signal there is no ignition or injection, so the engine stalls or does not start. Saab's Motronic 2.8.1 (900 V6) sets P0322 when the engine fails to start; its inductive sensor should measure 500–600 Ω and give 2–5 V AC while cranking. Systems without a camshaft-based check may store no code at all on a total failure.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- Engine cranks but does not start
- Engine stalls while driving
- Tachometer shows zero
- Check engine light on, with electronic throttle limp mode (P2106)
Common causes
- Crankshaft position sensor failed (often heat-related) Most likely
- Open or short in signal, ground or 5 V supply, corroded connector Most likely
- Sensor loose, air gap too large or tone wheel damaged Possible
- 5 V reference pulled down by another sensor on the same supply Less likely
- Engine module Less likely
How to diagnose P0322
- Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
- Inspect the parts involved: crankshaft position sensor, crankshaft tone wheel, sensor wiring, engine control module.
- Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
- Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.
Reading the code
- P
- Powertrain
- 0
- Generic (SAE) code
- 3
- Ignition system or misfire
- 22
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code P0322?
Drive gently and only as far as you need to. The engine computer may limit power to protect the engine, so avoid highways and heavy traffic until it's fixed. If the check engine light starts flashing, pull over.
Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P0322?
Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.
Can I fix P0322 myself?
Often yes, with an OBD-II scanner and basic tools. Difficulty: medium. Start with the cheapest checks before replacing expensive parts.
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.