98 S10 2.2L Sputtering and Stalling with P0335 and P0342 Codes - Wiring or Sensor Issue?
My 1998 Chevrolet S10 2.2L truck has been driving fine for days or even a week at a time, but suddenly it starts sputtering while driving, then appears to stall completely—only to restart after about two minutes. I've used an OBD2 scanner and found fault codes P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction) and P0342 (Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction). I replaced both sensors, and the truck ran smoothly for two days before the issue returned. It also backfired during one incident, and the exhaust was damaged—clothes hanger pieces were left hanging from it after the backfire. The vehicle now stalls intermittently, sometimes only after a few minutes of driving. I'm wondering if this could be due to a shorted ground wire related to the starter or another wiring issue. I've tried cleaning and tightening all connections, but the problem persists. Since replacing both sensors didn't resolve it long-term, I suspect there may be an underlying circuit fault—especially in the wiring harness between the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and ignition control module (ICM). The yellow wire is typically the CKP ground, and the purple wire carries the CKP signal. I'm looking for advice on what to check next: voltage levels, continuity, grounding issues, or possible shorts in the wiring. Any insight into how to diagnose this would be greatly appreciated—especially since I've already spent a significant amount of money on parts with no lasting fix.
There is no OBD2 diagnostic code that directly instructs you to replace the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors. Always scan and post all fault codes you're receiving. Based on your symptoms, a wiring issue—such as loose connections, corrosion, or short circuits—is more likely than faulty sensors.