P0320 code meaning
Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P03xx codes Check engine light
What P0320 means
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.
P0320 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0320
- Check engine light on
- Engine dies or stumbles briefly
- Starting problems, tachometer twitching
- Reduced power on electronic throttle (Ford P2106)
Common causes of P0320
- Most likelyCrankshaft or distributor speed sensor faulty or wrong air gap
- Most likelyWiring, connector or shielding disturbed (loose contact, interference from ignition or radios)
- PossibleTone wheel damaged or dirty (missing tooth, metal chips)
- PossibleIgnition module faulty on older vehicles
- Less likelyEngine module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Crankshaft position sensorCrankshaft tone wheelSensor wiring
What each part of P0320 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 3 | Area: ignition system or misfire. |
| 20 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0320 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0320
What does P0320 mean?
P0320 means "Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit". 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. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0320?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0320 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0320 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0320 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0320 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0320 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.