P0336 Code: Toyota Camry (2018-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

P0336 DIAGNOSTIC GUIDE FOR 2018-2024 TOYOTA CAMRY

Note on data limitations

• The provided NHTSA data for Toyota Camry (2018-2024) shows one owner complaint for code P0442 (evap small leak) and explicitly states “No recalls found in NHTSA database.” There is no P0336 data in that dataset. This guide uses general, model-relevant information for P0336 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance) as it applies to the 2018-2024 Camry, and it lists typical causes, symptoms, and repair options with current (2025) price ranges. If you have any model-year-specific service bulletins (TSBs/recalls), they are not included here unless they appear in the data you provided.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code definition: P0336 = Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Range/Performance. The PCM (engine computer) detects that the camshaft position sensor signal is outside the expected range or not tracking correctly with engine speed. This can disrupt ignition timing and fuel injection timing.
• Who it affects: Powertrain control system; can impact driveability and starting.
• Severity: Moderate to high. If the sensor signal is unreliable, the engine may run poorly, stall, misfire, or fail to start. Prolonged drivability issues can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, or potential engine damage if timing is adversely affected.
• Data note: No NHTSA recalls or TSB references appear in the provided data for this code. No recalls found in the database per the data given.

COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA CAMRY (2018-2024)

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (Sensor A) itself
• Damaged or corroded sensor wiring harness or connectors (pin corrosion, loose pins, damaged insulation)
• Poor or intermittent power supply to the sensor (5V reference) or weak/erratic ground
• Wiring harness damage from heat, vibration, or road debris
• Timing chain/buiding issues: stretched timing chain, worn guides/tensioners, or timing misalignment affecting the sensor signal
• Reluctor ring or camshaft gear issues causing irregular sensor readings
• PCM/ECU fault or software glitch (less common, but possible)
• Electrical noise or EMI affecting the sensor circuit (less common, but possible in poorly grounded systems)
• Moderate to high likelihood: sensor or wiring issues; timing-chain-related issues if the code persists with a clean signal path and correct voltages

SYMPTOMS YOU MIGHT SEE

• Engine runs rough, misfires, or hesitates during acceleration
• Intermittent or persistent check engine light with P0336
• Hard starting or no-start in some conditions
• Rough idle or stalling, especially at light load or idle
• Degraded or unstable engine performance at low RPM or during cold starts
• Possible accompanying codes related to crank/cam timing (e.g., P0335, P0340, P0340-like family) if timing symptoms are present
• No external leakage or obvious mechanical failure (initial symptoms can be electrical)

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS (step-by-step, practical approach)

Note: Start by confirming the code and gathering live data. Use a capable OBD-II scanner or professional tool, and, if available, an oscilloscope to view the sensor waveform.

A. Confirm and collect baseline data

• Use a good-quality scan tool to confirm P0336 is active and note any freeze-frame data.
• Check for additional codes that may point to timing, misfire, or sensor circuit issues (e.g., P0335, P0340, P0344, P0300).
• Record engine rpm, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, and fuel trims.

B. Inspect the basics

• Battery health and charging: ensure battery voltage is stable (roughly 13.8–14.8 V with engine running; above 12.6 V engine off). Low voltage can cause sensor misreadings.
• Grounds and chassis connections: inspect engine ground straps and the sensor ground path for corrosion or loose connections.
• Physical inspection: look for damaged wiring harness near the timing cover, hot areas, or routed over sharp edges; check connector pins for corrosion, bent pins, or dirt.

C. Inspect the Camshaft Position Sensor circuit

• Locate Camshaft Position Sensor A (on Bank 1, near the timing cover on many Camrys with the 2.5L I4; refer to the factory service manual for exact location).
• Disconnect and inspect the sensor connector; clean or reseat if corrosion or contamination is present.
• Check wiring continuity: refer to service manual wiring diagrams to test resistance of the signal wire, 5V reference, and ground. Look for open circuits, shorts to ground, or shorts to power.
• Verify power and ground at the sensor:
  • 5V reference to the sensor should be present when the connector is energized.
  • Sensor ground should be solid with minimal resistance to engine ground.
  • Signal wire should show activity that correlates with engine speed.

D. Verify sensor signal with live data and waveform

• With the engine running (or cranking), monitor the Cam Sensor A signal and Engine RPM.
• If your tool supports an oscilloscope, view the cam sensor waveform. A healthy Toyota cam sensor typically produces a clean square-wave-like signal that alternates with RPM. A missing pulse, irregular waveform, noise, or no waveform indicates a sensor or wiring fault.
• Compare the cam sensor signal timing with the crankshaft position signal (if you have both available) to check for proper phase relationship. Large phase errors or misalignment indicate timing or sensor issues.

E. Check for mechanical timing issues

• If electrical checks are inconclusive or show inconsistencies, consider mechanical timing issues:
  • Inspect timing chain/belt, chain tensioner, guides, and any variable valve timing components for wear or failure.
  • Mis-timing (late/early cam position relative to crank) can produce erratic cam sensor readings and P0336.
  • If the timing components appear compromised, do not just replace the sensor; timing chain work may be required.

F. Sensor replacement trial or wiring repair

• If the sensor signal is noisy, intermittent, or absent and wiring checks are normal, replace the Camshaft Position Sensor A with an OEM or high-quality replacement.
• If wiring or connectors are damaged, repair or replace the affected harness section and reconnect properly.

G. Post-repair verification

• Clear codes after repair and perform a road test or simulated driving test.
• Confirm P0336 does not return and monitor live data for stability of cam signal vs engine RPM.
• If P0336 reappears after a sensor replacement and clean wiring harness, investigate timing components or PCM issues as a last resort.

Tips for testing

• If you have access to a scope, capture both cam and crank sensor signals. The absence of a valid cam signal or a misaligned phase is a strong indicator of a sensor or timing issue.
• When replacing sensors, ensure the engine is at the correct temperature as some TOYOTA sensors are sensitive to temperature and installation torque.

RELATED CODES

• P0335: Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction
• P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor A (alternative naming across generations)
• P0330: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit (general fault, sometimes electrical or intermittent)
• P0300-P0304: Random/multiple/misfire cylinder-related codes may appear if cam timing is severely off
• P0011/P0012 (and other VVT-related codes): If timing or variable valve timing is affected, these may appear in conjunction with cam sensor issues
  Note: Depending on the exact Camry engine variant (2.5L 4-cyl, 3.5L V6, etc.), the sensor naming and bank designations may vary slightly. Always reference the service manual for your exact engine configuration.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices are typical ranges in the U.S. as of 2025 and can vary by region, shop, and whether OEM parts or aftermarket parts are used.

• Camshaft Position Sensor A replacement (sensor only)

  • Parts: ~$25–$120
  • Labor: ~0.3–1.0 hours (depending on access)
  • Typical total: ~$150–$350

• Sensor replacement with wiring harness repair (if wiring is damaged)

  • Parts: ~$30–$150 (sensor and minor harness components)
  • Labor: ~1.0–2.0 hours
  • Typical total: ~$250–$500

• Timing chain/tensioner/guide inspection or replacement (if timing issue suspected or confirmed)

  • Parts: ~$300–$900 (timing components, tensioners, guides)
  • Labor: ~4–8+ hours
  • Typical total: ~$1,200–$2,500+
  • Notes: This is a more extensive repair. If the chain/ tensioner is worn or mis-timed, this repair is significantly more expensive and time-consuming. In some Camry configurations, timing chain work may be covered under a special service if a defect is identified.

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid or related components (if diagnosed as contributing factor)

  • Parts: ~$50–$250
  • Labor: ~0.5–1.5 hours
  • Typical total: ~$150–$500

• PCM/ECU replacement or reprogramming (rare)

  • Parts: ~$400–$1,000
  • Labor/Programming: ~$100–$300
  • Typical total: ~$500–$1,300

• Important caveats

  • If the cam timing is found to be out of spec due to chain/tensioner wear, the overall repair cost can spike significantly.
  • Prices above are general ranges; dealer pricing tends to be higher than independent shops.
  • If a service bulletin or recall (not indicated in the provided data) applies, it could alter the recommended repair path or cost.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY feasibility: Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor A is typically within the skill set of a competent DIYer with basic tools. Access might be straightforward or require removing some engine coverings; you will likely not need to remove the timing cover for many Camry variants. You must ensure proper torque on the sensor and proper reseating of connectors.
• When to go pro: If you observe timing chain wear, tensioner issues, noisy timing area, or if P0336 persists after a sensor replacement and wiring checks, a professional diagnosis is advisable. A professional can perform scope-based waveform analysis, precise timing checks, and engine timing verification with the correct Toyota service procedures.
• Safety considerations: Always disconnect the battery before disconnecting sensor connectors and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures. Do not operate the engine if timing components appear compromised.

PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance: Follow Toyota’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep the engine and sensor systems in good working order.
• Electrical health: Keep the electrical system in good condition; address battery and charging issues promptly to avoid sensor misreadings caused by voltage fluctuations.
• Wiring protection: Inspect and protect wiring harnesses near the timing area from heat, oil leaks, and abrasion.
• Use quality parts: When replacing sensors, use OEM or high-quality equivalents; inferior sensors or wiring can cause intermittent faults.
• Diagnostics habit: If a cam sensor fault is recurring, perform a comprehensive inspection rather than replacing only the sensor. Investigate timing components and the engine’s overall sensor ecosystem.

CLOSING REMARKS

• P0336 is a camshaft position sensor circuit range/performance fault and can affect driveability and starting. For 2018-2024 Toyota Camry models, the diagnostic approach emphasizes sensor health, electrical integrity, and, if necessary, timing chain/tensioner integrity.
• The dataset provided does not include a P0336 incident or confirmed recalls; the guide above reflects typical, model-relevant diagnostics and repair options, with current 2025 price ranges. If you have supporting TSBs or dealer advisories for your specific VIN, those should be prioritized in your repair plan.