P0338 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Fix

Overview

Code P0338 indicates a fault in Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input, typically within engine synchronization and valve timing.

Symptoms

rough running or misfire
hard start when cold
loss of power at mid/high RPM

Common causes

Disconnected or loose connector affecting crankshaft position sensor a circuit high input
Broken terminal inside harness
Connector pin damage/corrosion or harness stress near related components

How to diagnose P0338

Confirm P0338 and capture freeze-frame data with a professional scan tool.
Inspect wiring, connectors, and grounds related to crankshaft position sensor a circuit high input for obvious defects.
Use a continuity test from module pin to component to identify opens/high resistance.
Check for related DTCs to identify the root-cause chain before replacing parts.
After repair, clear codes and confirm readiness monitors complete without recurrence.

Severity of code P0338

Moderate: This code is moderate severity: the vehicle may still operate, but fault progression can increase repair cost over time.

Can you drive with P0338?

Most vehicles can be driven short-term with P0338, but postpone heavy load/highway driving until repaired.

If the warning lamp is flashing or drivability/safety is affected, avoid driving and diagnose immediately.

How to fix it (step-by-step)

Repair obvious wiring/connector faults first to prevent repeat parts replacement.
Address the root fault mode (open) in the crankshaft position sensor a circuit high input circuit/system.
Apply the required relearn/adaptation procedure if specified by service information.
Road-test and verify P0338 remains cleared under the conditions that originally set the code.

Fix options

Clear corrosion and protect terminals.
Restore continuity and verify pin tension.
Clear DTCs and verify with live data and completed drive cycle.

Typical repair cost

$300-$1400

Common mistakes when diagnosing P0338

Replacing parts without verifying voltage, ground, and signal integrity first.
Ignoring related stored/pending codes that indicate upstream faults.
Skipping post-repair verification drive cycle and readiness checks.

P0338 in common vehicles

P0338 appears across makes such as Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen. Failure patterns differ by platform: wiring routes, software calibration, and component supplier revisions can change root cause.

Frequently asked questions

What causes P0338?

P0338 is commonly set by open faults affecting crankshaft position sensor a circuit high input.

How much does it cost to fix P0338?

For P0338, repair costs are typically $300-$1400 depending on exact root cause, labor rates, and part quality.

Can I clear P0338 without repair?

You can clear P0338 temporarily, but the code usually returns until the underlying fault is corrected.