P0374
Stop drivingYour engine's computer is not receiving any pulses from the primary timing reference sensor, often the crankshaft position sensor.
Code P0374 means your engine isn't getting a timing signal. Common causes: Crankshaft Position Sensor (70%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $30-$150 DIY, $130-$450 professional.
Can I Drive With P0374?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Engine will not start or stalls immediately
Symptoms of P0374
- 1Engine will not start or cranks but won't fire
- 2Engine stalls immediately after starting
- 3Engine stalls while driving
- 4Rough idle or misfires (if it starts at all)
- 5Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0374
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself has failed and is no longer sending a signal to the engine computer.
70% of P0374 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or a faulty connector prevents the sensor's signal from reaching the engine computer.
20% of P0374 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
Damage or debris on the reluctor wheel (the toothed wheel the sensor reads) prevents the sensor from generating a pulse.
5% of P0374 cases are fixed by addressing reluctor wheel issues
A rare internal fault in the engine computer prevents it from correctly processing the timing reference signal.
5% of P0374 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor's wiring harness for any cuts, fraying, or corrosion.
- Ensure the sensor's electrical connector is fully seated and free of debris.
How to Diagnose P0374
- 1Check for other related codes (P0370-P0379 range).
- 2Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 3Using a multimeter, check for proper voltage supply and ground at the CKP sensor connector.
- 4If possible, use an oscilloscope to check the CKP sensor's signal output while cranking the engine.
- 5If the sensor has power and ground but no signal, replace the crankshaft position sensor.
- 6If the new sensor does not resolve the issue, inspect the reluctor wheel for damage or debris.
- 7As a last resort, consider testing the ECM/PCM, though this is rare.
P0374 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Crankshaft position sensor failures are common. Access can be challenging on some V6 engines, requiring removal of other components.
70% fixed by replacing the CKP sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024CKP sensor is a frequent failure point. Wiring harness issues are less common but should be inspected, especially near the sensor connector.
70% fixed by replacing the CKP sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024Crankshaft position sensor failure is the primary cause. Location varies significantly by engine (V6 vs. V8, EcoBoost vs. naturally aspirated).
70% fixed by replacing the CKP sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0374 mean?
P0374 indicates that your engine's computer is not receiving any pulses from the primary timing reference sensor, which is typically the crankshaft position sensor. This signal is crucial for the engine to know when to fire the spark plugs and inject fuel.
Can I drive with P0374?
No, stop driving. If your engine is setting a P0374 code, it means the engine computer is not receiving a critical timing signal. Your engine will likely not start, or it will stall immediately if it does. Driving is not possible or safe.
Will P0374 clear itself?
No, P0374 will not clear itself. This code indicates a hard fault where a critical sensor signal is completely missing. The issue requires diagnosis and repair before the code will clear, even if the Check Engine Light turns off temporarily.
How do I fix P0374 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage. If the wiring looks good, you will likely need to replace the crankshaft position sensor. This often involves removing a bolt and unplugging a connector.
How much does it cost to fix P0374?
A DIY repair for P0374, primarily replacing the crankshaft position sensor, costs $30-$150 for the part. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $130-$450, which includes parts and 1-3 hours of labor.
P0374 keeps coming back - why?
If P0374 keeps returning after replacing the sensor, the problem is likely in the wiring harness leading to the sensor, a damaged reluctor wheel, or, in rare cases, a faulty engine computer. Thoroughly inspect the wiring for breaks or corrosion.
Will P0374 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0374 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light will be on, and the engine's critical monitors will not be ready, preventing the vehicle from passing inspection.
What's the difference between P0374 and P0370?
P0370 indicates a general fault with the 'A' timing reference signal, meaning the signal is incorrect or intermittent. P0374 is more specific, indicating 'No Pulses' from the 'A' timing reference signal, meaning the engine computer is receiving absolutely no signal at all.
P0374 on Ford F-150?
On a Ford F-150, P0374 most commonly points to a failed crankshaft position sensor. The sensor's location can vary by engine (e.g., near the front timing cover or on the side of the engine block), but the diagnostic steps remain the same: check wiring, then replace the sensor.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the voltage supply and ground at the crankshaft position sensor connector?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed 5V (or 12V, depending on the sensor type) and a good ground at the connector. The wiring harness is intact.
What did you find when you tested the crankshaft position sensor's signal output?
Good answer: I used an oscilloscope and saw no signal pulses from the sensor while cranking, confirming the sensor is dead. Or, I saw a weak/intermittent signal, indicating a failing sensor.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$30-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$130-$450
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate. Replacing the sensor itself is often straightforward, but diagnosing wiring issues or confirming sensor output requires a multimeter and some diagnostic knowledge.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0374 means your engine will not start or will stall, leaving you stranded. There is no 'waiting' with this code; it requires immediate attention.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Scan tool (to clear codes)
- Flashlight
- Wire brush (for cleaning connections)
P0374 is a direct fault, meaning the problem is usually clear-cut. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor often resolves this issue, getting your vehicle running again quickly.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage or loose connections.
Step 2: If the wiring looks good, test the sensor's power, ground, and signal output with a multimeter or oscilloscope. If no signal, replace the crankshaft position sensor.
Step 3: Parts you'll likely need: a new crankshaft position sensor.