P0322 explained: P0322 mostly appears on older vehicles with a distributor or a pickup-style speed sensor. No signal usually means no spark - the engine will not start. Common causes: failed pickup coil, broken wire, or bad ignition module.
🎯 Top Causes & Probability
55%
#1 - Most Likely
Failed Distributor Pickup Coil / Hall Sensor
The magnetic or Hall-effect sensor inside the distributor has failed. The engine cranks but produces no spark.
🔨 Part
$45-$220
👨🔧 Labor
$100-$280
⚡ DIY
Medium
25%
#2 - Check First
Wiring Damage Between Distributor and PCM
A broken wire or corroded connector at the distributor base. Inspect for obvious damage.
🔨 Part
$20-$80
👨🔧 Labor
$60-$200
⚡ DIY
Medium
15%
#3 - Less Common
Failed Ignition Control Module
On older Chrysler, Toyota, and Honda distributors with built-in ignition modules, the module can fail. Often requires distributor replacement.
🔨 Part
$80-$380
👨🔧 Labor
$100-$300
⚡ DIY
Medium
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Verify the engine cranks but does not start. P0322 + no-start = classic ignition system failure.
- Check for spark using an in-line spark tester. No spark confirms ignition system fault rather than fuel.
- Inspect the distributor cap and rotor for damage, moisture, or wear.
- Pull the distributor connector and measure pickup coil resistance. Compare to manufacturer spec - usually 500-1500 ohms.
- Back-probe the signal wire while cranking. A scope or LED tester should pulse with each engine revolution. No pulse = bad pickup or wiring.
- After repair, set base ignition timing per service manual and verify smooth start and idle.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will my car start with P0322?
Usually no. No ignition speed signal means the PCM cannot fire the spark plugs. The engine cranks but does not start.
Does P0322 apply to coil-on-plug engines?
Rarely. Modern coil-on-plug engines use crankshaft and camshaft position sensors (P0335, P0340) instead. P0322 is mostly a distributor-era code.
Can I drive home with P0322?
Usually you cannot - the engine will not start. If it stalled and restarted intermittently, get it to a shop before it dies for good.
Should I replace the whole distributor?
On Honda and Toyota engines from the 1990s, yes. The pickup coil, module, and cap-and-rotor are integrated. A new distributor is often the same price as fixing the individual parts.
Is the pickup coil the same as the crankshaft position sensor?
On distributor systems, the pickup coil serves the same function inside the distributor body. On crankshaft-mounted systems, it is a separate sensor on the crank.