P0336 means the crankshaft position sensor is sending a signal, but the pattern or timing of that signal is outside what the computer considers believable. It is the ‘range/performance’ version of P0335, where the circuit itself has failed. Because the crankshaft signal drives ignition and fuel timing, this fault can cause stalling, misfires and a car that cranks but won’t start.
What Does P0336 Mean?
The crankshaft position sensor reads teeth or notches on a wheel attached to the crankshaft. The computer uses that stream of pulses to know engine speed and the exact position of every piston, which it needs to time spark and fuel. P0336 is stored when the signal exists but is erratic, noisy, missing pulses, or does not agree with other information, such as the camshaft sensor.
That last point matters: if the camshaft and crankshaft signals no longer line up, the cause may be a slipped or stretched timing chain or belt rather than a bad sensor. See P0016 for the crank/cam correlation fault, and P0341, the camshaft equivalent of this code.
A new sensor fixes many P0336 cases. If it does not, or if there is also a cam sensor or correlation code, have the timing and the tone ring checked before spending on further parts.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light on, sometimes flashing with misfires — see flashing check engine light.
- Engine stalls, especially when warm — see car dies at idle.
- Hard starting or no start — see car cranks but won’t start.
- Rough running and hesitation, with possible misfires — see P0300.
- An erratic or dead tachometer.
Common Causes, Most Likely First
- A failing crankshaft position sensor, often heat-sensitive.
- Damaged wiring or a poor connector to the sensor.
- Metal debris or contamination on the sensor tip.
- A loose sensor or wrong air gap.
- A damaged or cracked reluctor (tone) wheel.
- Timing chain or belt that has jumped or stretched, putting cam and crank out of step.
How to Diagnose It
- Check for related codes. A cam sensor or correlation code points towards timing. See the OBD-II scanner guide.
- Inspect the sensor, connector and wiring for oil, damage or corrosion.
- Check that the sensor is secure and its tip is clean.
- Check the reluctor wheel for damaged teeth, if accessible.
- Replace the sensor if it tests poorly or the fault is heat-related.
- Have the timing verified if the code returns or a cam code is also stored. See when to replace the timing belt.
Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use axle stands on firm, level ground, chock the wheels that stay down, and leave the car in gear or Park with the handbrake on. A jack lifts; stands hold.
Possible Fixes
| Cause | Fix | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Failed crank sensor | Replace the sensor | $100 – $350 |
| Wiring or connector fault | Repair the harness | $60 – $300 |
| Damaged reluctor wheel | Replace the wheel (often with other work) | $300 – $1,200 |
| Stretched or jumped timing | Replace chain/belt and guides | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Can I Drive With P0336?
Not with confidence. A crankshaft sensor fault can make the engine stall without warning, which in traffic means losing power steering assistance and engine braking. If the engine is running and the symptoms are mild, drive only as far as you need to reach a repair, and avoid motorways and busy junctions.
When to See a Mechanic
Soon — before a stall strands you. Mention any cam or correlation codes. More in our engine section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0336 mean?
The crankshaft position sensor’s signal is present but implausible — erratic, noisy or out of agreement with other sensors.
What is the difference between P0335 and P0336?
P0335 is a circuit fault; P0336 is a range/performance fault where a signal exists but does not make sense.
Can P0336 cause a no-start?
Yes. The crankshaft signal times spark and fuel, so a poor signal can stop the engine from starting or make it stall.
Could the timing chain be the cause?
Yes. If cam and crank are out of step, the signals disagree. Check timing if a new sensor does not clear the code.
How much does it cost to fix P0336?
A sensor is often $100–$350, while timing work can run $1,000–$3,000.
