What is the P0336 Code? Meanings, Causes and How Do You Fix It?

The P0336 gets stored in the engine control module’s trouble code memory when there is a problem with the signal to the crankshaft position sensor.

This could have many causes. In this article we'll explain everything about P0336.

Definition of Code P0336

Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance

What is the meaning of P0336?

A problem signaling from the crankshaft sensor to the engine controller unit, P0336 is an indication. It could be either an electrical issue or a mechanical problem with the relay ring, which is used to read the crankshaft position sensor's position.

Trouble code P0336 Symptoms

You might experience difficulty starting your engine, sudden engine stall, and erratic acceleration. You may notice the check engine light illuminated on your dashboard in most cases.

You might also notice these signs:

• Check engine light comes on.
• Hard Start - Difficulty starting the engine
• Acceleration error
• The engine stops working suddenly.
• Engine failures

The P0336 Code: Causes

A faulty crankshaft sensor position sensor, defective wirings, or a damaged reluctor ring are the most frequent causes of P0336 codes.

Below are more causes.

• A faulty crankshaft position sensor
• Bad crankshaft sensor connector plug
• Broken crankshaft reluctor ring
• The crankshaft sensor wiring has been misrouted in the vicinity of high-voltage spark plug cables.
• Installed incorrectly or poorly on crankshaft reluctor rings
• Open wiring in crankshaft position sensor circuit
• ECM system failure - Damaged engine control management

Is the P0336 Code serious?

Very serious – The crankshaft position sensor will stop reading signals from the crankshaft and the engine may die.

Your engine may not start as easily as it used to, or it could also shut down completely.

How can you fix P0336?

• Repair the crankshaft sensor.
• Check and repair the wires that connect to the crankshaft sensor.
• Move the wiring for crankshaft sensor
• Check connectors for corrosion at the crankshaft sensor.
• Engine control unit replaced

Common P0336 Diagnosis mistakes

Common mistake with P0336 codes is thinking there's a problem in the timing of the camshaft. In rare instances, it could be an issue with camshaft timing. However, most of the time, the problem is with the sensor or the reading from the crankshaft.

A common error is to simply replace the crankshaft position sensor and not check the wiring.

Diagnostic Tools

How do you diagnose P0336 trouble code?

The P0336 code can be easily diagnosed using several methods. This guide was created for professionals, and you may need to use some extra tools.

1. Check for any other trouble codes by connecting your OBD2 scanner. If you discover any, follow the procedures.
2. For corrosion or damage, inspect the connectors and wiring to the crankshaft sensor.
3. Make sure the wirings for the crankshaft position sensor do not get misrouted in proximity to any high-voltage spark plug cable.
4. Request a resistance test diagram of the crankshaft sensor in your vehicle. If the sensor fails, replace it.
5. Check the crankshaft position sensor for damage and remove it. Turn the engine around until it's fully functional.
6. Connect everything back together and measure the signals from the crankshaft position sensor from the engine control unit’s plug. Reconnect the wires to correct any faulty signals.

The estimated cost of repair

These are the estimated costs to repair similar issues that arise from the code P0335. These prices are inclusive of labor and part costs, but not diagnosis.

• Crankshaft position sensor replacement – 40$ to 140$
• Crankshaft position sensor wiring repair – 50$ to 150$
• Crankshaft reluctor ring replacement – 500$ to 2000$

Similar P0336 Trouble codes

P0339 Code Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit – Intermittent