P0336 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
2 Chevrolet models · 2 documented issues · $80-$500 repair
P0336 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 8.1L Vortec 496 big-block, offered in the 2500HD alongside the Duramax, has a well-known crankshaft position sensor weakness concentrated on the earliest build years. The sensor sends erratic or dropped signals to the PCM, which throws ignition timing off and produces rough idle, hesitation, stalling - often when hot - and eventually a crank-no-start that clears after the engine cools. GM revised the sensor design during the run, so late trucks are far less affected. This is an 8.1L gas issue and has nothing to do with the Duramax diesel sold in the same body.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls while driving
- Hard start or no-start when hot
- Rough idle
- Hesitation and loss of power
- Check engine light
- Tachometer drops out momentarily
How to Fix
No recall. Confirm with a scan tool that a crankshaft position correlation or circuit code is stored and that RPM signal drops out during the stall - a fuel pump failing hot presents nearly identically. The repair is replacement of the crankshaft position sensor with the updated AC Delco design, followed by the crankshaft position variation relearn procedure, which the PCM requires or the truck may run poorly or set the code again. Inspect the sensor connector and harness for heat damage while it is accessible.
Sources for this issue (3)
The crankshaft position sensor fails due to heat exposure, causing intermittent stalling and no-start conditions. The sensor is located behind the harmonic balancer and is exposed to engine heat and oil contamination. Failure is often intermittent, making diagnosis difficult until complete failure occurs.
Common Symptoms
- Intermittent stalling
- No-start condition
- Engine dies and restarts after cooling
- Check engine light with crank sensor code
How to Fix
Replace the crankshaft position sensor. The harmonic balancer must be removed for access. Inspect the balancer for rubber separation while it is removed. Use a quality OEM-equivalent sensor. Apply anti-seize to the sensor bolt threads. Clear any stored DTCs after installation.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Engine Crankshaft Position SensorCross-ref235-1021
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0336 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0336 mean on a Chevrolet?
P0336 stands for "Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance." P0336 means the engine control module detected a crankshaft position sensor signal that is present but outside the expected range or pattern — for example, intermittent dropouts, an erratic waveform, or extra/missing pulses. The crankshaft position sensor tells the computer the exact position and speed of the crankshaft, which is essential for timing fuel injection and ignition. When this signal is unreliable, the engine may stumble, stall, hesitate, or be hard to start. Because it underpins basic engine operation, this code should be addressed promptly. On Chevrolet it is documented across 2 models: Silverado 2500HD, Lumina.
What are the most common causes of P0336?
The most common causes of P0336 are: Failing crankshaft position sensor, Damaged or contaminated reluctor/tone ring (debris, missing teeth), Wiring damage, chafing, or corroded connectors, Incorrect air gap or loose sensor mounting, Electrical interference from nearby high-voltage components, Metal shavings on the sensor tip, ECM/PCM fault (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0336 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $80 to $500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0336 on a different make?
View P0336 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.