What Is the P0315 Code?
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The P0315 code indicates that the crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor) has gathered certain information about your crankshaft position that wasn’t actually stored in the memory of the powertrain control module (PCM). The CKP sensor tells the PCM where the engine is in the running condition, which it then uses, along with the camshaft position sensor, to accurately deliver the air/fuel mixture, as well as the combustion process. Any issues with the vehicle’s timing may cause the PCM to set this code.
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The crankshaft is a critical component of the engine, and the CKP sensor needs to be able to tell where it is with pinpoint accuracy so that it can monitor important components such as ignition timing, fuel injection synchronization, and more. This constant communication between the CKP sensor and the PCM helps your vehicle run smoothly; if it’s especially desynchronized, it can cause the vehicle to no longer start.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0315 Code?
When your vehicle first throws the P0315 code, you’ll see the check engine light. The longer you leave this problem, the more likely it is to desynchronize between the CKP sensor and the PCM, leading to more and more issues with the vehicle, including general misfiring, rough idling, and surging, and potentially leading to a situation where your vehicle will crank, but won’t start.
What Are Some Causes of a P0315 Code?
There are many possible causes of the P0315 code. The CKP sensor might be faulty, the crankshaft itself may be damaged, or, in some rare cases, the PCM itself might actually be faulty. It’s also fairly common for the crankshaft position relearn procedure, a critical component of aligning all the elements of the engine, to have been improperly performed. There may also be circuitry issues between the CKP sensor and the PCM.
How Serious Is the P0315 Code?
There are many possible causes of the P0315 code. The CKP sensor might be faulty, the crankshaft itself may be damaged, or, in some rare cases, the PCM itself might actually be faulty. It’s also fairly common for the crankshaft position relearn procedure, a critical component of aligning all the elements of the engine, to have been improperly performed. There may also be circuitry issues between the CKP sensor and the PCM.
Can I Still Drive with a P0315 Code?
Most people with a P0315 code will still be able to drive, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. The more you drive on an engine with a malfunctioning CKP, the more likely it will be to cause serious engine issues. You’ll often be able to drive to the local repair shop to fix the problems, but aside from this, you should try to avoid driving your vehicle if it’s giving you a P0315 code.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0315 Code?
This code can be very difficult to diagnose. If there’s a visual issue with the connections, this might be fairly easy to notice, especially if you’re a DIYer who’s been handling your vehicle for a long time. However, the crankshaft position sensor can be difficult to understand without specialized tools. Although your local repair shop will have these tools and will know how to use them, it’s common for DIYers not to have the specialized products necessary to fix the problem without potentially replacing elements that don’t actually need a replacement.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0315 Code?
The inspection process can be just as difficult, largely because it’s common for an expert to be able to check where the crankshaft is with specialized tools that you likely don’t have. Any time there’s an issue with the crankshaft, the inspection process will require significant technical knowledge. If you don’t feel like you have that highly technical knowledge, then it’s best to leave the process up to the experts.
Need Additional Help with Your P0315 Code?
Most people who discover an issue with the P0315 code will opt for an expert’s help. An expert will be able to help you figure out the underlying problem and fix the problem all in a single visit. Plus, you don’t have to worry about potentially harming the engine even further, which is always a possibility when you’re dealing with the inner workings of your vehicle.
To start off, use KBB to find a repair shop in your area. No matter where you are, it’s easy to use this tool to find a local repair shop, which can be even more helpful if you’re dealing with a no-start condition and you need to tow your vehicle to the shop.
Additionally, if you want to know more about the codes that your vehicle’s engine may be throwing, check out the KBB OBD-II database. This database will introduce you to more information about your vehicle’s engine, including an overview of the various codes and what they mean for you.
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