2012 Dodge Avenger OBD-II Codes P0335 & P0522: Diagnosis & Repair Costs

Experiencing a check engine light in your 2012 Dodge Avenger can be unsettling, especially when accompanied by OBD-II codes. Two codes that can appear and cause concern are P0335 and P0522. Understanding what these codes mean, their potential causes, and the associated repair costs is crucial for getting your Avenger back on the road. This guide will break down these codes to help you navigate the diagnostic and repair process effectively.

Understanding OBD-II Codes: P0335 and P0522

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes are standardized codes used in vehicles to identify potential problems within the engine, transmission, and other systems. When your check engine light illuminates, it signifies that the vehicle’s computer has detected an issue and stored a corresponding code.

Code P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction

The P0335 code indicates a problem with the Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor circuit. The CKP sensor plays a vital role in engine management. It monitors the crankshaft’s position and speed, providing crucial data to the engine control module (ECM) for fuel injection and ignition timing. A malfunction in this circuit can disrupt these processes, leading to engine performance issues or even a no-start condition.

Code P0522: Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Low Voltage

The P0522 code signals a low voltage condition in the Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch circuit. This sensor monitors the engine oil pressure, a critical parameter for engine lubrication and longevity. Low voltage, in this context, typically means the sensor is reporting a lower-than-expected oil pressure reading or a fault in the sensor or its wiring. This code is often related to issues with the oil pressure sensor, the oil level, or the oil itself.

Potential Causes of Code P0335 in a 2012 Dodge Avenger

Several factors can trigger the P0335 code in your 2012 Dodge Avenger. Here’s a breakdown of the common culprits:

Damaged Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor: The sensor itself may be faulty due to wear, damage, or electrical issues. This is often the primary suspect.
CKP Sensor Connector or Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the CKP sensor’s wiring harness or connector can disrupt the signal, leading to a P0335 code.
Damaged Reluctor Ring: The reluctor ring is a toothed wheel that the CKP sensor reads. If this ring is damaged (missing teeth, bent, or not rotating correctly), the sensor will not function properly. This can happen due to physical damage or timing component issues.
Sensor Output Problems: This could involve an open circuit (break in the wiring), a short to ground (wiring touching the vehicle’s frame), or a short to voltage (wiring touching a power source).
Failed Crank Sensor: Complete sensor failure is a possibility, requiring replacement.
Broken Timing Belt or Chain: While less common, a broken timing belt or chain will prevent the crankshaft from turning correctly, causing a P0335 code and significant engine problems. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
Failed Powertrain Control Module (PCM): Although less frequent, a faulty PCM could misinterpret sensor signals or incorrectly diagnose a CKP sensor issue. This is usually diagnosed after ruling out other potential causes.

Image: A typical crankshaft position sensor, illustrating the component that may be faulty when code P0335 is present in a 2012 Dodge Avenger.

Potential Causes of Code P0522 in a 2012 Dodge Avenger

Code P0522 in your 2012 Dodge Avenger points towards problems within the oil pressure monitoring system. The common causes include:

Low Engine Oil Level: Insufficient oil in the engine is a primary cause of low oil pressure and can trigger a P0522 code. Always check your oil level first when this code appears.
Old or Dirty Engine Oil: Oil that is old, degraded, or contaminated with dirt and debris can lose its viscosity and ability to properly lubricate and maintain pressure. This can lead to low oil pressure readings.
Low Oil Pressure: Genuine low oil pressure due to mechanical issues within the engine’s oil pump, oil passages, or excessive engine wear can cause this code. This is a serious concern requiring immediate diagnosis.
Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch: The oil pressure sensor itself can fail, providing inaccurate readings to the PCM and triggering the P0522 code even if the actual oil pressure is adequate.
Wiring or Connector Issues in the Oil Pressure Sender Circuit: Similar to the CKP sensor, problems with the wiring or connector for the oil pressure sensor (corrosion, damage, loose connections) can disrupt the signal and cause a false P0522 reading.

Image: An example of an oil pressure sensor, highlighting the sensor type that might be at fault when a 2012 Dodge Avenger shows code P0522.

Diagnosing and Repairing P0335 and P0522 in Your 2012 Dodge Avenger

Diagnosing these codes typically involves a systematic approach.

For P0335:

Visual Inspection: Check the CKP sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
Sensor Testing: Use a multimeter to test the CKP sensor’s resistance and signal output. Compare readings to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Wiring Circuit Testing: Check the wiring harness for continuity, shorts to ground, and shorts to voltage using a multimeter and wiring diagrams for your 2012 Dodge Avenger.
Reluctor Ring Inspection: Visually inspect the reluctor ring for damage or misalignment if accessible.
Timing Belt/Chain Check: If other symptoms suggest timing issues (e.g., engine noise, misfires), inspect the timing belt or chain.
PCM Diagnosis (Last Resort): If all other components check out, PCM failure may be considered, but this requires advanced diagnostic tools and expertise.

For P0522:

Check Engine Oil Level and Condition: Verify the oil level is within the recommended range and that the oil is not old or excessively dirty.
Visual Inspection: Examine the oil pressure sensor and its wiring for damage or loose connections.
Oil Pressure Test (Mechanical Gauge): Use a mechanical oil pressure gauge to verify the actual engine oil pressure. This helps determine if the issue is with the sensor or a genuine low oil pressure problem.
Sensor Testing: Test the oil pressure sensor’s voltage output using a multimeter.
Wiring Circuit Testing: Check the sensor wiring for continuity, shorts, and proper voltage.

2012 Dodge Avenger OBD-II Code P0335 & P0522 Repair Costs

Repair costs for P0335 and P0522 codes can vary depending on the actual cause and the repair needed. Here’s a general estimate:

P0335 Repair Costs:

CKP Sensor Replacement: The CKP sensor itself is relatively inexpensive, ranging from $50 to $150. Labor costs can vary depending on the sensor’s location and accessibility, typically ranging from $100 to $300. Total estimated cost: $150 – $450.
Wiring/Connector Repair: If the issue is wiring or connector related, repair costs can range from $50 to $250, depending on the complexity of the repair and labor time.
Reluctor Ring/Timing Component Issues: Repairs related to the reluctor ring or timing components can be significantly more expensive, potentially ranging from $500 to $2000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and necessary parts and labor.
PCM Replacement (Rare): PCM replacement is the most expensive option, potentially costing $800 to $1500 or more, including programming.

P0522 Repair Costs:

Oil Change (If due/dirty oil): A standard oil change costs between $50 and $150.
Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Replacement: The sensor itself is typically inexpensive, ranging from $30 to $100. Labor costs are usually lower than CKP sensor replacement, ranging from $75 to $200. Total estimated cost: $105 – $300.
Wiring/Connector Repair: Similar to P0335, wiring repairs can range from $50 to $250.
Engine Oil Pressure Issues (Serious): If the P0522 code indicates genuine low oil pressure due to engine problems (e.g., failing oil pump, engine wear), repairs can be extensive and expensive, potentially ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity and required repairs (oil pump replacement, engine rebuild, etc.).

Important Note: These are estimated costs and can vary based on your location, the specific repair shop, and the make and model of your 2012 Dodge Avenger. Always get a quote from a reputable mechanic before proceeding with any repairs.

DIY vs. Professional Repair

Minor issues like low oil level or a simple sensor replacement might be manageable for experienced DIYers. However, diagnosing electrical problems, internal engine issues, or timing component problems requires specialized tools, knowledge, and experience.

When to consider DIY:

Checking and changing engine oil.
Replacing a sensor in an easily accessible location (if you are comfortable with basic auto repair).
Visual inspection of wiring and connectors.

When to seek professional help:

Any electrical diagnostic work beyond visual inspection.
Internal engine repairs or oil pump issues.
Timing belt/chain problems.
If you are unsure about any step of the diagnostic or repair process.

Conclusion

OBD-II codes P0335 and P0522 in your 2012 Dodge Avenger indicate potential problems that should be addressed promptly. While P0335 points to crankshaft position sensor circuit issues and P0522 to oil pressure sensor circuit concerns, accurate diagnosis is crucial to pinpoint the root cause. By understanding the potential causes, diagnostic steps, and estimated repair costs, you can approach these issues with confidence and ensure your Dodge Avenger receives the necessary repairs to get you back on the road safely. If you are not comfortable performing these diagnostics and repairs yourself, always consult a certified mechanic for professional assistance.