Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Code 42, Crank Angle Sensor Circuit No Signal For 2 Seconds: Notes
The ECM supplies 12 volts to crank angle sensor on terminal A8 (Brown wire). As the stator inside the distributor passes the crank angle sensor, 12 volts is pulled low. The ECM uses the signal at terminal A17 (Orange wire) to determine when to fire the coil and fuel injector. If this signal is not present during cranking, Code 42 will set. Code 41 may also set.
- Battery voltage is supplied by the ECM to the distributor module.
- This checks for a short in Brown or Orange wire.
- This checks for voltage on ECM terminals A8 and A17.
- This checks for a short to ground.
- Code 42 can be caused by an improper air gap.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.