The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor is installed to calculate the position and speed of the crankshaft. Your vehicle PCM uses this data to regulate ignition timing and fuel delivery. When the powertrain control module detects a problem with the CKP sensor signal, it will trigger code P0336. This article describes the symptoms and causes of the P0336 code.
P0336 Code Definition
The P0336 code stands for “Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance.”
What does the Code P0336 Mean?
The P0336 code is triggered when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an irregular/insufficient signal coming from the crankshaft position sensor.
The main function of the CKP sensor is to monitor the engine valves with the proper working of pistons, record the rotation speed of the crankshaft, and monitor the engine’s performance. The powertrain control module takes data from the crankshaft position sensor to regulate the ignition timings and the fuel injection process.
The CKP sensor consists of a stationary sensor and a reluctor (rotating disc). Maximum CKP sensors have a ground wire sensor, a signal wire sensor, and a voltage wire sensor. All of these three sensors collaborate to deliver the RPM signals to the PCM of your vehicle.
The information coming from the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors assists the PCM in adjusting the ignition timing and fuel injection rate. If your PCM fails to receive the proper signals from the crankshaft sensor, it will not be able to make proper adjustments, and as a result, it triggers the trouble code P0336.
The damaged CKP sensor should be replaced immediately. Moreover, if it stays in your car for some time, it may cause damage to some other engine parts. It is always recommended to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts while replacing the CKP sensor.
P0336 Code Causes
The P0336 code is triggered due to one or more of the following causes:
- Wires and circuitry have either burnt out or shorted out
- Damaged or broken teeth of the reluctor wheel
- Bad crankshaft position sensor
- A rusted or damaged crankshaft position sensor connector
- Damaged crankshaft reluctor ring
- An issue with the powertrain control module (PCM)
- Camshaft position sensor failure
- The wiring for the crankshaft sensor is incorrectly positioned near the high-voltage spark plug connections
- The crankshaft position sensor circuit has open wires
- Engine misfiring
- Crankshaft reluctor ring that is loose or incorrectly placed
Symptoms of P0336 Code
When you drive a vehicle with P0336 code, it produces one or more of the following symptoms:
- Rough idle
- Check engine light illumination
- Random or intermittent engine misfire
- Poor fuel economy
- Difficulty starting
- Car may hesitate upon acceleration
- Engine vibration
- Intermittent stalling
Read More: Bad PCM Symptoms and Causes
How to Diagnose the P0336 Code?
You must have the following tools to diagnose the P0336 code:
- Auto Repair Manual
- Basic Hand Tools
- Diagnostic OBD Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Electrical Contact Cleaner
Follow the below-given steps to diagnose the P0336 trouble code:
- Connect the OBD2 scanner and look for any additional codes. Follow the below-given procedure if you discover any trouble code.
- Examine the CKP sensor visually for evident damage.
- Check the reluctor wheel and find any damage. Remember that it should be tightly fitted to the crankshaft.
- Check for any signs of burns, shorts, or breaks in the wires.
- Examine the insulation surrounding the crankshaft harness for any signs of damage.
- Look for cracks, rust, or a loose connection in the connector.
- Make sure that the CKP sensor wiring is not positioned too close to a high-voltage spark plug cable.
- Clear all trouble codes, then run a test to check whether any of them come back.
- While starting your car, examine the RPM reading with the help of a scanner.
- Use a scanner to verify the CKP sensor signal in the absence of an RPM reading.
- With the help of a voltage scanner, measure the resistance of the CKP sensor and the CKP sensor wiring. Compare the output readings with the readings written on the owner’s manual.
- Examine the camshaft position sensor with the wiring. The camshaft and the crankshaft sensors both work together, so sometimes, the issue with the camshaft and its wiring badly affects the readings and functions of the CKP sensor.
- Inspect the reluctor ring on the crankshaft after removing the defective CKP sensor. Check that the engine is fully operational by spinning it all the way around.
Common P0336 Diagnosis Mistakes
- Crankshaft position sensor replacement without reluctor ring examination.
- Because the CKP sensor and CMP sensor work together, it is a frequent mistake to replace the CKP sensor when the camshaft position sensor is the real culprit.
- Before changing the CKP sensor, it’s essential to figure out the chance that the engine is misfiring or that there is a wiring problem.
What repairs can fix the P0336 code?
One or more of the following repairs can fix the P0336 engine code:
- If necessary, fix any engine misfires.
- Change the damaged CKP sensor.
- A damaged reluctor wheel should be replaced.
- Replace the damaged crankshaft sensor wire harness.
- Change the faulty camshaft position sensor.
- The crankshaft position sensor connection that is rusted or broken should be fixed or replaced.
- Examine and repair the crankshaft sensor’s damaged wires.
- Change or reprogram the PCM
P0336 Code Repair Cost
The fixing or repair cost of the P0336 code varies according to labor cost and relevant parts. One or more below given repairs may be needed to fix the P0336:
| Parts | Cost |
|---|---|
| CKP sensor replacement | $170 to $270 |
| Reluctor ring replacement | 470$ to 2000$ |
| Wiring repair/replacement | $90 to $1100 |
How serious is the P0336 code?
Diagnostic trouble code P0336 trouble code is generally considered to be quite severe DTC. This code comes with a high potential for driving issues. That is why it is categorized as a serious DTC code. The P0336 can stall your car’s engine, and you can face a dangerous situation during heavy traffic on a major road.
CKP sensor failure can make your car unable to start. This can result in unexpected vehicle stops and unable to start your car. If your car stops halfway, then you have to find an expensive rescue to take your car to the repair center. This may also be very annoying, especially if you’re attempting to travel on a strict schedule.
FAQ Section
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located?
The crankshaft position sensor location varies according to the vehicle model. Of course, it should be close to the crankshaft, so it’s usually in front of the engine. The CKP sensor is usually attached to the timing cover. Some of them are also mounted on the side or at the rear of the engine.
Can disconnecting the battery reset the CKP sensor?
Disconnecting the battery can’t reset the CKP sensor. A sensor is a mechanical unit that works without a power source.
What causes DTC P0336?
The broken reluctor ring, faulty wirings to the sensor, misfiring, faulty PCM, or faulty CKP sensor are the most common causes of the P0336 code.
Can a crankshaft sensor be cleaned?
To clean the CKP sensor, just remove the 1 bolt which holds the sensor in its place. Remove the sensor and clean any metal or grease from the sensor.
Can I drive with a bad crankshaft position sensor?
The crankshaft speed and position are some of the most important parameters used in engine management calculations. Many engines cannot run if the crankshaft position sensor does not provide an accurate signal.
Can I drive with P0336 Code?
The P0336 code is a severe trouble code. As your PCM triggers the P0336, you should stop driving immediately. Driving with this code may lead to poor engine performance and poor fuel efficiency. It may also cause complete failure of your engine. Therefore, fix this code as soon as possible to stop internal engine damage.