P0336 on Mercedes-Benz: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
3 Mercedes-Benz models · 3 documented issues · $100-$600 repair
P0336 on Mercedes-Benz by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The crankshaft position sensor fails due to heat exposure and oil contamination, causing intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, and rough running. The sensor is mounted near the flywheel and exposed to high temperatures.
Common Symptoms
- Intermittent stalling while driving
- Engine cranks but will not start
How to Fix
Replace the crankshaft position sensor. A straightforward repair — the sensor is accessible from under the vehicle near the transmission bellhousing. Use OEM or Bosch sensor for reliability.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Mercedes-Benz crankshaft position sensor 276-905-14-00OEMMercedes-Benz 276-905-14-00
M276/M278 E-Class crank-sensor branch after a missing/invalid crank signal and sound circuit confirm failure Fitment/availability: The inspected direct product page identifies genuine 276-905-14-00, superseded numbers, $48 and Add to Cart.
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The crankshaft position sensor on M276 and M278 engines in the CLS fails without warning, causing an immediate engine stall and no-start condition. The sensor is located in a heat-exposed area near the bellhousing, and thermal cycling degrades the sensor over time. This is a roadside breakdown item that leaves the vehicle completely inoperable.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls without warning
- No-start condition with cranking
- Check engine light with crank sensor codes
- Intermittent engine cutting out at idle
How to Fix
Replace the crankshaft position sensor. This is a relatively inexpensive part ($50-100) but can be labor-intensive to access depending on the engine variant. Carry a spare sensor in the trunk if the vehicle is high-mileage. Use only OEM Bosch sensors for reliability.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Mercedes-Benz crankshaft position sensor 276-905-14-00OEMMercedes-Benz 276-905-14-00
M276 CLS400 or M278 CLS550 crank-sensor branch after missing/invalid crank signal and circuit diagnosis confirm failure Fitment/availability: The inspected direct product page identifies genuine 276-905-14-00, its superseded numbers, $48…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipReplace this sensor proactively at 80,000-100,000 miles. It is a $50 part that can leave you stranded on the highway when it fails.
A common issue on early R170 SLK models is failure of the crankshaft position sensor, especially as heat and age degrade the sensor electronics. When the sensor signal drops out, the engine may stall when hot, crank without starting, or cut out intermittently because the ECU loses engine speed reference.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls when warm
- Cranks but will not start
- Intermittent sudden shutdown
- Tachometer drops to zero
- Long crank time
How to Fix
Diagnosis is performed by checking for RPM signal loss during cranking, scanning for crank sensor faults, and verifying wiring integrity. Repair is straightforward: replace the crankshaft position sensor with a quality OE-equivalent part and clear codes. Most independent shops charge about $180-$450 depending on labor access and part quality.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Bosch crankshaft-position sensor 0261210170 / Mercedes A0031532728OEMBosch 0261210170 / Mercedes A0031532728, A0031532828
OE-supplier crank sensor after loss of the crank/RPM signal and circuit testing confirm sensor failure Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipIf the car stalls hot and restarts after cooling down, test the crank sensor before replacing fuel system parts.
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 Mercedes-Benz?
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 Mercedes-Benz it is documented across 3 models: E-Class, CLS-Class, SLK-Class.
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 Mercedes-Benz?
Published repair estimates on Mercedes-Benz range from $100 to $600 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.