P0385
Stop drivingYour engine computer is not receiving the expected signal from the secondary crankshaft position sensor or the 'B' circuit of the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor tells the computer the exact position and speed of the crankshaft, which is critical for engine timing.
Code P0385 means your engine computer isn't getting a signal from the secondary crankshaft position sensor. Common causes: Bad sensor (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: No, stop driving if stalling. Repair cost: $20-$100 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0385?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, engine stalling, engine not starting, significant power loss.
Symptoms of P0385
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving
- 3Engine cranks but does not start
- 4Rough idle or engine misfires
- 5Reduced engine power or poor acceleration
Common Causes of P0385
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself has failed and is no longer sending a reliable signal to the engine computer.
80% of P0385 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or a faulty connector can interrupt the signal from the sensor to the engine computer.
15% of P0385 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A rare but possible cause where the engine computer itself is faulty and cannot correctly interpret the sensor signal.
5% of P0385 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 signs of rodent damage.
- Check the electrical connector at the sensor for looseness, corrosion, or bent pins. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and electrical cleaner.
How to Diagnose P0385
- 1Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring harness for any obvious damage, fraying, or loose connections.
- 2Check the sensor's electrical connector for corrosion or bent pins.
- 3Using a multimeter, test the sensor's resistance and signal output according to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
- 4If the sensor tests good and wiring is intact, use a scan tool to check for other related codes or live data from the sensor.
P0385 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024The crankshaft position sensor on F-150s is typically found on the engine block, often requiring removal of some accessory components for access. Wiring harness issues are common.
85% fixed by replacing sensor or repairing wiring
Honda Accord
2003-2024On many Accord models, the crankshaft position sensor can be challenging to access, sometimes located behind the crankshaft pulley or timing cover. Thorough visual inspection of wiring is critical.
80% fixed by replacing sensor or repairing wiring
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Camry crankshaft position sensors are often located on the front of the engine block, making them relatively accessible. Pay close attention to the electrical connector for corrosion.
85% fixed by replacing sensor or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0385 mean?
P0385 indicates a malfunction in the 'B' circuit of your engine's crankshaft position sensor. This sensor is crucial for the engine computer to know the exact position and speed of the crankshaft, which it needs for proper ignition and fuel injection timing.
Can I drive with P0385?
No, stop driving. A failing crankshaft position sensor can cause your engine to stall unexpectedly while driving or prevent it from starting at all. This creates a dangerous situation and can leave you stranded.
Will P0385 clear itself?
No, P0385 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard fault in a critical sensor circuit. The underlying issue, whether it's the sensor or wiring, must be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear and stay cleared.
How do I fix P0385 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the crankshaft position sensor's wiring and connector for damage. If they look good, you will need to test the sensor itself with a multimeter. If the sensor is faulty, replace it. The location can vary, but it's often on the engine block near the crankshaft pulley or flywheel.
How much does it cost to fix P0385?
A DIY fix for P0385 typically costs $20-$100 for a new crankshaft position sensor. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $150-$500, which includes the part and 1-3 hours of labor.
P0385 keeps coming back - why?
If P0385 keeps returning, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if the wiring or connector was the actual problem, not the sensor itself, or if there's an intermittent issue that wasn't caught during initial testing. A rare possibility is a faulty engine computer.
Will P0385 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0385 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically results in a failure in most states, and a faulty crankshaft position sensor can also lead to increased emissions due to incorrect engine timing.
What's the difference between P0385 and P0335?
P0335 refers to a malfunction in the 'A' circuit of the crankshaft position sensor, while P0385 refers to the 'B' circuit. On many vehicles, these codes might point to different aspects of the same physical sensor or its signal. Some vehicles might have two crankshaft position sensors, with 'A' and 'B' referring to each sensor.
P0385 on Ford F-150?
On many Ford F-150 models, the crankshaft position sensor is located on the front or side of the engine block, often near the harmonic balancer. Access can vary by engine size and year, but it's generally a straightforward replacement once located. Always check for wiring damage first, as F-150s can experience harness issues.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the crankshaft position sensor's signal output with a multimeter or oscilloscope?
Good answer: Yes, I checked the waveform and voltage, and it was outside the specified range, indicating a faulty sensor.
What did you find when inspecting the wiring harness and connector for the crankshaft position sensor?
Good answer: I found some corrosion in the connector pins, which I cleaned, or a section of frayed wire that I repaired.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$20-$100
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $130-$400 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - locating and accessing the sensor can be tricky on some vehicles, and testing requires a multimeter. However, the replacement itself is often just a bolt or two.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0385 can lead to your engine stalling unexpectedly at any speed, creating a dangerous situation. It can also cause a complete no-start condition, leaving you stranded. Intermittent bad signals can cause misfires, which send unburned fuel to your catalytic converter, potentially causing a $1,200-$2,500 converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If the crankshaft position sensor is located near the crankshaft pulley, the serpentine belt may need to be removed or inspected. It's a common wear item, and replacing it now saves future labor.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic socket set and wrenches
- Multimeter
- Wire brush (for cleaning connectors)
- Dielectric grease (for new connector)
- Scan tool (for clearing codes and live data)
P0385 is a common sensor code. While it can be serious, the repair is usually straightforward and your engine will run reliably once fixed.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Carefully inspect the wiring and connector for the crankshaft position sensor. Look for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair as needed.
Step 2: If the wiring and connector are good, use a multimeter to test the crankshaft position sensor itself. Compare readings to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If the sensor tests faulty, replace it. Parts you'll likely need: a new crankshaft position sensor.