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P0389PowertrainGeneric SAE code

Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit Intermittent

P0389 is an OBD-II trouble code that indicates crankshaft position sensor b circuit intermittent. This page explains what the code means, what issues may trigger it, common symptoms and where to look next.

P0389 code meaning is one of the most common OBD-II searches when a warning light appears on the dashboard.

Drivers searching for P0389 usually want to know what the code means, whether the car is safe to drive and what part may need testing first.

Likely causes

  • Faulty sensor
  • Damaged sensor wiring
  • Loose or corroded connector
  • Open circuit or short circuit
  • Poor electrical connection
  • Timing issue

Symptoms

  • Check engine light illuminated
  • Intermittent warning light
  • Inconsistent engine performance
  • Hard starting or stalling
  • Reduced performance

Severity

Low to Medium

Can you keep driving?

Driving may be risky if the engine is running poorly, stalling or showing strong timing-related symptoms.

Common fix areas

  • Verify live data and sensor voltage
  • Inspect sensor connector and wiring
  • Check continuity, power and ground
  • Inspect for damaged wiring or corrosion
  • Scan all fault codes and freeze-frame data
  • Inspect wiring, connectors and grounds

Manufacturer notes

Generic OBD-II: This code usually has a common meaning across many supported vehicles.
Vehicle-specific diagnosis: The actual cause, symptoms and repair path can still vary by make, model and engine.

FAQs

What does P0389 mean?

P0389 means crankshaft position sensor b circuit intermittent.

What can cause P0389?

Common causes include component failure, wiring faults, incorrect sensor readings, leaks, pressure issues or related upstream faults in the same system.

Can I keep driving with P0389?

That depends on how the car is behaving. If there is rough running, overheating, loss of power or stalling, it should be diagnosed quickly.

Does P0389 always mean I need a new part?

No. A fault code points you to a system or condition, but proper diagnosis is still needed before replacing parts.