P0371
Stop drivingEngine computer detects too many pulses from the high-resolution engine timing sensor.
Code P0371 means your engine computer detects too many pulses from the timing sensor. Common causes: Crankshaft Position Sensor (70%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $100-$300 DIY, $200-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0371?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, engine stalls, significant power loss, loud noises from engine
Symptoms of P0371
- 1Engine will not start
- 2Engine stalls unexpectedly
- 3Engine runs rough or misfires
- 4Reduced engine power
- 5Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0371
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
A faulty crankshaft position sensor can send an incorrect or erratic signal with too many pulses to the engine computer.
70% of P0371 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or shorted wiring to the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor can cause an erroneous signal.
20% of P0371 cases are fixed by repairing wiring
While less common for 'too many pulses', a failing camshaft position sensor can send an erratic signal that the PCM misinterprets.
8% of P0371 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A rare internal fault within the engine computer can incorrectly interpret sensor signals or fail to process them correctly.
2% of P0371 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, loose connections, or corrosion.
- Check for any debris or metal shavings on the tip of the crankshaft position sensor.
How to Diagnose P0371
- 1Connect an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0371 and check for other related codes.
- 2Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 3Inspect the crankshaft position sensor for physical damage or debris on its tip.
- 4Use a scan tool to monitor live data from the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, looking for erratic RPM readings or signal dropouts.
- 5If available, use an oscilloscope to check the actual waveform of the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for abnormal patterns or extra pulses.
- 6If all sensor and wiring checks pass, consider testing the PCM, though this is a rare cause.
P0371 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Crankshaft position sensor failures are common on these trucks, leading to P0371. The sensor can be difficult to access depending on the engine configuration.
75% fixed by replacing the Crankshaft Position Sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024Wiring harness issues, particularly chafing or corrosion at the crankshaft position sensor connector, are sometimes seen with P0371 on Accords.
65% fixed by replacing the Crankshaft Position Sensor, 25% by wiring repair
Toyota Camry
2007-2024While less frequent, P0371 on a Camry typically indicates a failing crankshaft position sensor. Always check for oil leaks that could contaminate the sensor or its wiring.
70% fixed by replacing the Crankshaft Position Sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0371 mean?
P0371 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer (PCM) is receiving an abnormally high number of pulses from the high-resolution timing reference signal, typically from the crankshaft position sensor. This means the engine's timing signal is erratic or incorrect.
Can I drive with P0371?
No, stop driving. This code points to a critical issue with engine timing. Driving with P0371 can lead to sudden engine stalling, severe misfires, and potential engine damage. It is not safe to drive.
Will P0371 clear itself?
No, P0371 will not clear itself. This code signifies a hard fault with a sensor or wiring that directly impacts engine operation. The underlying issue must be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear, either automatically after several drive cycles or by using a scan tool.
How do I fix P0371 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage. If no damage is found, replacing the crankshaft position sensor is the most common fix. Ensure you disconnect the battery before working on electrical components and follow your vehicle's specific repair procedures.
How much does it cost to fix P0371?
DIY repair for P0371, primarily replacing the crankshaft position sensor, typically costs $100-$300 for the part. Professional repair at a shop will cost $200-$600, including parts and labor.
P0371 keeps coming back - why?
If P0371 keeps returning, it indicates the initial repair did not address the root cause. Common reasons for recurrence include: a faulty replacement sensor, undetected wiring damage (chafed wires, poor connections), an issue with the camshaft position sensor, or, in rare cases, a problem with the engine computer itself.
Will P0371 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0371 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and a critical engine timing fault like this directly impacts engine performance and emissions.
What's the difference between P0371 and P0370?
P0371 ('Too Many Pulses') indicates the engine computer is receiving more timing reference pulses than expected. P0370 ('No Reference Signal') means the computer is not receiving any timing reference signal at all. Both point to issues with the timing reference sensor (usually crankshaft position sensor) but describe different signal problems.
P0371 on Ford F-150?
On a Ford F-150, P0371 most commonly points to a failing crankshaft position sensor. These sensors can degrade over time, leading to erratic signals. Inspect the sensor and its wiring, especially where it routes near hot exhaust components or moving parts, as chafing is a known issue.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the crankshaft position sensor's actual waveform with an oscilloscope?
Good answer: Yes, the waveform showed erratic spikes/extra pulses, confirming the sensor is faulty. Or, 'The waveform was clean, so we're looking at wiring integrity next.'
What did you find when inspecting the wiring harness to the timing sensors?
Good answer: We found a section of chafed wire near the engine block, or 'The connector pins were corroded and needed cleaning/replacement.'
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$300
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$600
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - while replacing the sensor can be straightforward, accurately diagnosing the 'too many pulses' issue often benefits from an oscilloscope, which most DIYers don't have.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0371 can lead to your engine stalling at any time, stranding you. Continued incorrect timing can cause severe engine damage, including bent valves or piston damage, turning a sensor replacement into a costly engine overhaul ($3,000-$7,000).
While You're In There...
If you find damaged wiring, a repair kit can provide a durable fix and prevent future issues.
Applying dielectric grease to electrical connectors helps prevent corrosion and ensures a good connection, especially in exposed areas.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter (for checking voltage/resistance)
- Oscilloscope (recommended for accurate diagnosis)
- Jack and jack stands (if sensor is under the vehicle)
P0371 is a serious code because it affects engine timing, but it's often resolved by replacing a single sensor. Once fixed, your engine will run reliably again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the crankshaft position sensor and its entire wiring harness, looking for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal an obvious issue, replace the crankshaft position sensor, as it is the most common cause for P0371.
Step 3: If the code persists after sensor replacement, use a scan tool to monitor live data and consider professional diagnosis with an oscilloscope to check the signal integrity. Parts you'll likely need: new crankshaft position sensor.