Faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor; Damaged or worn sensor reluctor rings or tone wheels; Wiring harness damage, including chafed wires, corrosion, or loose connectors at either sensor; Stretched or jumped timing chain or belt, causing mechanical misalignment; Engine control module (ECM) software calibration issue or internal fault; Debris or metal particles on the sensor tip or reluctor wheel interfering with signal; Low oil pressure affecting variable valve timing (VVT) phaser operation, which can alter cam timing

DTC codes / P03xx · Ignition system and misfire / P033F

P033FCrankshaft/Camshaft Loss Of Synchronization

Q: What does code P033F mean?

Crankshaft/Camshaft Loss Of Synchronization. P033F indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a loss of synchronization between the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor signals. The ECM expects these two signals to maintain a precise relationship, and when the correlation falls outside the allowed threshold, it sets this code and may disable certain engine management functions.

P033F indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a loss of synchronization between the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor signals. The ECM expects these two signals to maintain a precise relationship, and when the correlation falls outside the allowed threshold, it sets this code and may disable certain engine management functions.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Engine may crank but fail to start or start after an extended crank
Rough running, misfiring, or stalling shortly after startup
Reduced engine power or limp mode activation
Intermittent engine stumble or hesitation during acceleration
In some cases, the engine may stall unexpectedly while driving

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor
Damaged or worn sensor reluctor rings or tone wheels
Wiring harness damage, including chafed wires, corrosion, or loose connectors at either sensor
Stretched or jumped timing chain or belt, causing mechanical misalignment
Engine control module (ECM) software calibration issue or internal fault
Debris or metal particles on the sensor tip or reluctor wheel interfering with signal
Low oil pressure affecting variable valve timing (VVT) phaser operation, which can alter cam timing

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a visual inspection of the crankshaft and camshaft sensor wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion
Use a scan tool to check for related codes and freeze-frame data, and verify signal presence with a lab scope if possible
Check the sensor resistance and compare to manufacturer specifications, replacing if out of range
Inspect the reluctor rings for cracks, missing teeth, or debris buildup
Verify engine timing marks align correctly to rule out a jumped timing chain or belt
Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or ECM software updates related to synchronization faults
If all else fails, perform a pinpoint test for the CKP and CMP circuits, including signal integrity under load, and replace the ECM only as a last resort

Before you replace the crankshaft sensor

A stretched timing chain is a common cause that many technicians overlook; always verify mechanical timing before condemning sensors.
Metal debris on a magnetic sensor tip can mimic a failed sensor, so clean and recheck before replacement.
Intermittent wiring faults often set P033F without storing other codes, so wiggle-test the harness while monitoring live data.
On engines with variable valve timing, low oil pressure or a faulty VVT solenoid can alter cam timing enough to trigger this code.
After replacing a sensor, some vehicles require a crankshaft position variation relearn procedure to prevent recurrence.

Can I keep driving with P033F?

If the engine starts and runs smoothly, you may drive cautiously to a repair shop, but avoid heavy acceleration or long trips. If the engine stalls, misfires, or fails to start, stop driving and have the vehicle towed to prevent further damage or safety risk.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.