Faulty crankshaft position sensor (internal failure or heat-related intermittent); Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the sensor; Metal debris or a damaged reluctor wheel (tone ring) on the crankshaft; Excessive air gap between the sensor and the reluctor wheel; Electrical interference from a failing alternator or ignition component; Loose or damaged sensor mounting bracket; Poor ground connection for the sensor circuit

DTC codes / P03xx · Ignition system and misfire / P0336

P0336Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

Q: What does code P0336 mean?

Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance. P0336 means the engine computer detected an erratic or out-of-range signal from the crankshaft position sensor on the 'A' circuit, which is the primary sensor the computer uses to determine engine speed and piston position. The computer compares the sensor's pulse pattern against expected values and flags the code when the signal drops out, skips pulses, or shows implausible timing gaps.

P0336 means the engine computer detected an erratic or out-of-range signal from the crankshaft position sensor on the 'A' circuit, which is the primary sensor the computer uses to determine engine speed and piston position. The computer compares the sensor's pulse pattern against expected values and flags the code when the signal drops out, skips pulses, or shows implausible timing gaps.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Intermittent engine stalling or a sudden cut-out while driving
Difficulty starting or a no-start condition, especially when the engine is hot
Rough running, misfiring, or a noticeable loss of power
Tachometer needle jumping erratically or dropping to zero
Poor fuel economy or increased emissions

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty crankshaft position sensor (internal failure or heat-related intermittent)
Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the sensor
Metal debris or a damaged reluctor wheel (tone ring) on the crankshaft
Excessive air gap between the sensor and the reluctor wheel
Electrical interference from a failing alternator or ignition component
Loose or damaged sensor mounting bracket
Poor ground connection for the sensor circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

Inspect the sensor and its connector for physical damage, corrosion, or loose pins
Check the air gap between the sensor and reluctor wheel with a feeler gauge if specified
Measure sensor resistance and compare to the manufacturer's specification
Back-probe the sensor signal wire with an oscilloscope to check for a clean, consistent waveform
Inspect the reluctor wheel for cracks, missing teeth, or metal debris
Check for excessive AC voltage ripple from the alternator that could interfere with the signal
Replace the crankshaft position sensor if all wiring and mechanical checks pass

What a P0336 often hides

A failing crankshaft position sensor can test fine when cold but break down internally once the engine bay heat-soaks, so always test the sensor both cold and at operating temperature.
Metal shavings or a worn reluctor wheel can mimic a bad sensor, and replacing the sensor without cleaning or inspecting the tone ring will leave the code returning.
Aftermarket sensors are a common source of repeat P0336 codes because their signal output may not match the OEM waveform closely enough for the computer's self-test.
A weak battery or poor engine ground can cause the crankshaft signal to drop out intermittently, so check charging system health before condemning the sensor.
P0336 can be set by a momentary signal glitch that never recurs, so clear the code and verify it returns before replacing parts.

Can I keep driving with P0336?

You can usually drive short distances to a repair shop, but avoid sustained highway speeds or heavy load because a sudden sensor failure can cause an unexpected stall. If the engine is stalling or refusing to start, stop driving and arrange a tow.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.