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OBDHut

P0322

Critical
Moderate

Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range/Performance

What Does P0322 Mean?

The ignition/distributor engine speed input circuit is reporting no signal to the PCM. Unlike P0321 (range/performance), this code indicates a complete loss of the engine speed signal. The engine will likely crank but not start, or it may stall and not restart. The tachometer will show zero RPM during cranking.

Safety Warning

The vehicle may not start or may stall suddenly while driving. This is a critical safety concern as loss of engine speed signal causes immediate engine shutdown. Do not attempt to drive. Have the vehicle towed if it cannot be repaired on-site.

Common Causes

35%

Failed crankshaft position sensor with total signal loss

crankshaft position sensor

25%

Open circuit in the CKP sensor wiring — broken wire, disconnected connector, or corroded terminal

CKP wiring harness
sensor connector
PCM connector

15%

Shorted CKP sensor circuit pulling the signal to ground

CKP wiring harness
sensor connector

15%

Damaged distributor pickup coil (on distributor-equipped engines)

distributor pickup coil
distributor

10%

Blown fuse or loss of power supply to a Hall-effect type CKP sensor

CKP fuse
power supply wiring
PCM power relay

Diagnostic Steps

1

Verify the RPM PID reads zero during cranking on the scan tool — this confirms no engine speed signal is reaching the PCM.

2

Check the CKP sensor connector for power (5V or 12V reference depending on type), ground, and signal wire integrity with the key on, engine off.

3

For magnetic CKP sensors, measure resistance at the sensor terminals: it should read 500–900 ohms. Infinity means an open coil; very low resistance means a short.

4

For Hall-effect sensors, check for the 5V reference supply and ground at the sensor connector. If power is missing, trace the circuit back to the PCM or fuse.

5

Perform a continuity test on each wire from the CKP sensor connector to the corresponding PCM pin to identify open or high-resistance connections.

6

If wiring checks pass, substitute a known-good CKP sensor and attempt to start the engine.

Estimated Repair Cost

$80 - $450

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0322 mean?

The ignition/distributor engine speed input circuit is reporting no signal to the PCM. Unlike P0321 (range/performance), this code indicates a complete loss of the engine speed signal. The engine will likely crank but not start, or it may stall and not restart. The tachometer will show zero RPM duri...

What causes P0322?

The most common cause of P0322 (Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range/Performance) is: Failed crankshaft position sensor with total signal loss

How much does it cost to fix P0322?

Typical repair costs for P0322 range from $80 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with P0322?

The vehicle may not start or may stall suddenly while driving. This is a critical safety concern as loss of engine speed signal causes immediate engine shutdown. Do not attempt to drive. Have the vehicle towed if it cannot be repaired on-site.

How do I diagnose P0322?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0322 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Powertrain

System

Ignition System / Engine Management

Difficulty

Moderate

Type

Generic (SAE)

Recommended Tools

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