Powertrain, generic · Ignition system or misfire

P0320 Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P0320 originally covered the engine speed signal from the distributor or ignition module to the engine module (early OBD II); today Ford's engine module evaluates the crankshaft sensor directly and uses this code for it. Ford checks continuously from 200–500 rpm and sets it within 5 s when the number of teeth after the gap is wrong, the tooth time is implausible (below 30 or above 9,000 rpm) or the gap appears in the wrong place; fuel and spark are then cut briefly to resynchronise, and on electronic throttle P2106 limits power. Some Ford engines use P0339 instead. Typical causes are a faulty crankshaft sensor, interference in the wiring or a damaged tone wheel.

Likely causes

Crankshaft or distributor speed sensor faulty or wrong air gap
Wiring, connector or shielding disturbed (loose contact, interference from ignition or radios)
Tone wheel damaged or dirty (missing tooth, metal chips)
Ignition module faulty on older vehicles
Engine module faulty

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Engine dies or stumbles briefly
  • Starting problems, tachometer twitching
  • Reduced power on electronic throttle (Ford P2106)

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€50–350
Time0.5–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

crankshaft position sensorcrankshaft tone wheelsensor wiring

Related codes

P0322P0335P0336P0339P0340P2106

References: newtonnet.co.uk, fordservicecontent.com, law.cornell.edu.