P0336 on Mitsubishi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
1 Mitsubishi model · 1 documented issue · $150-$700 repair
P0336 on Mitsubishi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 6G72's crank/cam timing signal on early 1990s trucks is generated inside the distributor, and later trucks use a discrete crankshaft position sensor at the front of the engine behind the crank pulley/timing covers. As these sensors and their pickups age they fail intermittently, producing a classic 'cranks but won't start' condition or sudden stalling while driving that often clears after the engine cools. Owners repeatedly report that aftermarket sensors do not resolve the problem and that only a genuine Mitsubishi (OEM) sensor restores reliable operation; the crank sprocket tone/reluctor ring can also strip or be damaged.
Common Symptoms
- Engine cranks but will not start
- Sudden stall while driving, restarts after cooling
- Intermittent no-spark condition
- Hard starting when hot
- Check engine light for crank sensor circuit (OBD-II trucks)
How to Fix
Test the crank sensor/ignition pickup output per the factory procedure before replacing parts. Replace the failed crankshaft position sensor (or the distributor pickup on early trucks) with a genuine OEM Mitsubishi unit, as aftermarket units are widely reported to be unreliable here. Inspect the crank sprocket/tone ring for stripping or damage. Address related ignition coil/power transistor faults that can mimic the same stall.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Mitsubishi crankshaft-position sensor MD303649OEMMitsubishi MD303649
Confirm VIN, build date, engine and connector before ordering; it
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Sources for this issue (3)
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 Mitsubishi?
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 Mitsubishi it is documented across 1 model: Montero.
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 Mitsubishi?
Published repair estimates on Mitsubishi range from $150 to $700 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.