To know which stroke each cylinder is in, the engine module matches the crank angle with the camshaft phase. P033F means this synchronisation is lost while running or cannot be established. It is documented by code only at Ford (2020–2023): P033F, as an alternative to Ford's older own code, stands for a disturbed crank signal without crank/cam synchronisation, and then misfire detection is also impossible. Ford's 2012 description shows the reaction: on a crank sensor fault the module cuts fuel and spark and resynchronises – one revolution to find the gap, one more to confirm cylinder 1 via the camshaft sensor. FCA evaluates the same function in its own cam/crank synchronisation monitor under other codes. Besides the sensors, a jumped timing chain or belt can be behind it.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive little and gently. If you hear timing chain noise or the oil light comes on, shut off the engine.
Symptoms
- Jerking, brief loss of power
- Engine stalls, hard starting
- Misfire detection inactive
- Check engine light on
Most likely causes
- Noisy or disturbed crankshaft signal (sensor, air gap, interference)
- Disturbed camshaft signal
- Timing chain or belt jumped or heavily stretched
- Wiring or connector
- Tone wheel damaged or loose
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: medium
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P033F means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 3: Ignition and misfires
- 3F: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P033F?
Drive little and gently. If you hear timing chain noise or the oil light comes on, shut off the engine.
What causes code P033F?
The most common causes are: noisy or disturbed crankshaft signal (sensor, air gap, interference); disturbed camshaft signal; timing chain or belt jumped or heavily stretched.
Related codes
- P0335Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit
- P0336Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
- P0340Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Bank 1 or Single Sensor
- P0016Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
- P0300Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
Sources
- fordservicecontent.com: OBD Operations Summary Gasoline 2020 2023
- newtonnet.co.uk: fordobd2012
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10149004 9999
- law.cornell.edu: 13 CCR 1968.2
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.