P0336: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

Common causes

• A failing crankshaft position sensor that drops out, often when hot
• A damaged or loose reluctor (tone) ring, or on some engines a harmonic balancer whose outer ring has slipped
• Metal debris on a magnetic sensor tip, or a sensor that isn't fully seated
• Loose or corroded connector, or wiring routed too close to spark plug wires or ignition parts

Code meanings can vary slightly by manufacturer. Use these as a starting point and confirm with your vehicle's service information or a mechanic before replacing parts.

Symptoms

• Stalling or stumbling, sometimes only when warm
• Engine cranks but won't start, or takes long to start
• Misfires or a jumping tachometer
• Check engine light

Is it safe to drive?

If the engine stalls, stumbles or won't start, don't drive it; have it towed. Even with a steady light and no symptoms, the engine can stall without warning, including in traffic, so get it checked before driving much.

How to check it with a scanner

1. Plug an OBD2 scanner into the port under the dashboard and read all stored codes and the freeze-frame data (the conditions when the code set).
2. Scan for related codes (P0335, P0340, misfires). With a scan tool, watch RPM while cranking and idling for dropouts.
3. With the engine off, check the sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion or contact with ignition parts.
4. If the sensor is easy to reach, remove it with the engine off and check the tip for metal debris or damage.
5. Look at the front pulley (harmonic balancer) for a wobble or a rubber ring that has shifted, keeping hands clear and the engine off.
6. Many vehicles need a crankshaft position variation relearn with a scan tool after replacing the sensor, balancer or computer, or the code can return; check your service information.
7. After a repair, clear the code and drive normally for a few days to confirm it doesn't come back.

A basic code reader shows the code; scanners with live data let you watch sensor readings, which is what you need for most of the checks above. See OBD2 scanners under $100.

Questions

Related codes

• P0335: Crankshaft position sensor circuit
• P0340: Camshaft position sensor circuit
• P0016: Crank and cam timing don't match, bank 1
• P0300: Random or multiple cylinder misfire
• All trouble codes
• How to choose a car diagnostic scanner