P0336 Code: Toyota Corolla (2020-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database

Note on the data provided: The real NHTSA data presented for 2020-2024 Toyota Corolla includes one owner complaint about P0401 (not P0336) and no recalls. There are no specific official TM/TSB entries in the supplied data for P0336. The guide below uses general automotive knowledge for P0336 and how it tends to behave in Toyota Corolla models, with explicit caveats about data limitations.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0336 — Crankshaft Position Sensor A circuit range/performance (Bank 1 or A).
• What it means: The vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) detected that the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor’s signal is outside expected range, or the signal is erratic/inconsistent enough to compromise engine timing. This often affects ignition timing and fuel injection timing.
• Severity in practice: Moderate to severe. Typical symptoms include stalling, no-start or intermittent starting, rough idle, misfires, and loss of power. If the signal is completely lost, the engine may crank without starting. In a Toyota Corolla, sustained CKP sensor circuit issues can make safe driving difficult and may leave you stranded.
• Important note: Because P0336 is circuit-range/performance related, it may be caused by the sensor itself, wiring/connectors, grounding/power issues, or in rarer cases an ECM/PCM fault. A proper diagnostic approach should verify the signal source before replacement.

COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA COROLLA (2020–2024)

• Faulty CKP sensor (the most common cause): Sensor failure or degraded internal components leading to weak or noisy signal.
• Damaged or corroded wiring or connectors: CKP harness insulation, terminals, or connectors can be damaged by heat, vibration, oil leaks, or water intrusion; poor contact can produce intermittent signals.
• Faulty or damaged reluctor ring (tone ring) or mounting: If the reluctor ring is bent, dirty, or damaged, the CKP sensor may not consistently read the correct tooth pattern.
• Incorrect sensor spacing or mounting: If the CKP sensor is out of spec (air gap too large or too small), signal quality deteriorates.
• ECM/PCM grounding or power supply issues: A weak ground or unstable supply can create apparent CKP signal problems.
• Engine mechanical issues that affect timing: Timing chain/bollow/piston timing problems can alter CKP timing signal integrity; these are less common but can mimic CKP faults.
• Aftermarket devices or wiring modification: Alarm systems, engine management modifications, or non-OEM wiring can interfere with CKP signals.
• Oil leakage or moisture around the sensor: Oil or coolant leaks near the sensor can contaminate the sensing element or connectors.
• Software/ calibrations: In some cases, a software update from Toyota can address intermittent CKP reporting; however, this is less common than a hardware issue.

SYMPTOMS OF P0336 (typical for a Corolla)

• Engine stalling or failure to start; intermittent cranks without firing.
• Rough idle or misfires when the CKP signal is unstable.
• Loss of power, hesitation on acceleration, or engine bucking.
• MIL (Check Engine Light) illuminated with P0336 stored.
• Tachometer behavior: In some cases, the tach may drop to zero or show erratic readings while cranking or running.
• Intermittent drivability issues that come and go, often related to engine temperature, vibration, or road conditions.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS (systematic, practical approach)

Important: Prioritize safety. If the vehicle is hard to start or stalls while driving, pull over to a safe location and allow the engine to cool if necessary. Do not continue driving a vehicle that stalls or runs rough.

A. Preliminary checks

• Confirm the code and freeze frame data with a scan tool. Note when the failure occurred (engine cold/hot, RPM range, load, etc.).
• Check for related codes (P0335, P0337, P0338, P0339, and perhaps P0101–P0130 family MAF/MAP/IO sensors that could coincide with timing concerns). Record all codes.

B. Visual inspection

• Inspect CKP sensor and wiring harness for obvious damage, oil leaks, heat damage, or pinched wires. Look for cracked connectors, bent pins, or corrosion.
• Inspect the CKP sensor mounting area for oil leaks or debris; ensure the sensor is seated properly with correct gap as specified by the service manual.
• Inspect the reluctor ring (tone ring) for bent teeth, dirt, metal shavings, or abnormal wear.

C. Signal and data verification

• Using a handheld scan tool or OEM tool, monitor CKP sensor live data while cranking and at idle. Look for:
  • A valid CKP RPM/angle signal that correlates with engine speed.
  • No gaps in the CKP signal, and no wildly fluctuating readings when RPM is steady.
  • If the CKP angle/position is shown as "0" or shows no activity while cranking, or if the signal is erratic, suspect sensor or wiring.
• If available, use an oscilloscope to view the CKP waveform. A clean, periodic waveform with consistent amplitude and spacing is a sign of a healthy CKP sensor; a distorted, intermittent, or flat waveform indicates sensor or wiring issues.

D. Resistance and continuity checks (with power off)

• Perform a resistance/continuity check on the CKP sensor circuit between the sensor connector pins and the PCM/ECU pins, and between power/ground lines. Compare against factory specifications in the service manual. Note: Some CKP sensor circuits are not easily measured with simple resistance checks; check the manual for the accepted method.
• Check ground integrity for the CKP circuit. A poor ground can present as a signal problem even if the sensor is healthy.

E. Mechanical and timing considerations

• If the CKP sensor and wiring test good but symptoms persist, verify timing-related components. On many Corolla engines, a timing chain and tensioner maintain synchronization; a stretched chain or failed tensioner can alter timing and degrade CKP signal. This check often requires more invasive inspection and sometimes teardown.
• Inspect for abnormal movement or play in the crankshaft pulley or accessory belt system that could affect pulley position and sensor alignment.

F. ECM/PCM checks

• Confirm no voltage drop or grounding issue on the ECM/PCM power/ground pins that service the CKP circuit.
• In rare cases, a faulty PCM can misinterpret CKP input. If all sensor and wiring checks out, consider PCM fault or software issue after consultation with a Toyota service specialist.

G. Repair decision tree

• If CKP sensor signal is weak, intermittent, or out of spec and wiring is intact, replace the CKP sensor.
• If wiring harness or connectors show damage, repair or replace the harness/connector; clean and protect the harness with dielectric grease where appropriate.
• If reluctor ring or mounting is damaged, replace or repair the ring and ensure proper alignment and spacing with the sensor.
• If timing components are suspect, address mechanical issues per service manual.
• After any repair, clear codes and perform a thorough road test, including a cold start and dynamic driving at various speeds to confirm the issue is resolved.

H. Documentation

• Record all measured values (live data, resistance readings, etc.) and keep notes of all tested components. This helps with future diagnostics if the code returns.

RELATED CODES

• P0335: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit (Bank 1) — circuit failure or signal missing.
• P0337: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input — signal too low.
• P0338: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit High Input — signal too high.
• P0339: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermittent/No Activity — intermittent signal.
  Note: In some vehicles, codes may differ slightly or share family naming, but these are commonly related CKP signals. If multiple CKP-related codes appear, address the sensor/wiring first and recheck.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices are approximate and vary by region, labor rate, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. All figures are rough ranges intended for planning.

• CKP sensor replacement (labor + parts)

  • Parts: $40–$120 (aftermarket and OEM variants; OEM typically at the higher end)
  • Labor: ~0.5–1.5 hours depending on access (Toyota engines often involve some engine bay clearance)
  • Total estimate: $120–$320

• Wiring harness or connector repair

  • Parts: $20–$150 (depends on extent of damage; may require harness section or connector kit)
  • Labor: 0.5–2 hours
  • Total estimate: $100–$400

• Reluctor ring or mechanical timing components (if found defective)

  • Parts: $20–$200 (reluctor ring replacement parts or timing components; rarely needed in day-to-day CKP failures)
  • Labor: 2–6+ hours (more invasive)
  • Total estimate: $300–$1200+

• ECM/PCM fault or software update (rare)

  • Parts: Often none required if software can be updated; replacement ECU if necessary
  • Labor: 1–3 hours
  • Total estimate: $300–$1200+ (plus potential dealer diagnostic fees)

• Miscellaneous costs

  • Diagnostic fee (if performed at a shop): typically $80–$150
  • Reuse of old parts or core charge where applicable

Notes on cost and scope:

• Most P0336 cases in modern Toyota engines resolve with CKP sensor or wiring repairs. Major mechanical timing repairs or ECM replacement are far less common but more expensive.
• Always verify current labor rates in your area. Dealer quotes will typically be higher than independent shops.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY viability: Moderate. Replacing a CKP sensor is usually within the capability of a skilled DIYer with basic hand tools and knowledge of the engine bay. It’s important to disconnect the battery, avoid damaging connectors, and follow torque specs when reinstalling the sensor.
• Pros of DIY: Lower cost, learning experience, quick resolution if you’re confident.
• Cons of DIY: If the issue is wiring harness damage, reluctor ring, or timing-related problems, the job becomes more complex and error-prone. Misdiagnosis can lead to poor starting, running, or timing issues.
• Professional route: Recommended if you don’t have the right tools (e.g., oscilloscope or OEM service tool), aren’t comfortable with electrical diagnostics, or if the vehicle exhibits intermittent stalling at speed. A professional can perform live data monitoring, confirm signal integrity, and prevent misdiagnosis.

Suggested DIY steps if you choose to proceed:

• Gather tools: multimeter, basic hand tools, torque wrench, dielectric grease, replacement CKP sensor, service manual for torque and gap specs.
• Disconnect battery negative terminal.
• Locate CKP sensor: typically near the crank pulley on the engine block; consult the specific Corolla model’s service manual for exact location.
• Disconnect the sensor plug and remove mounting screws.
• Remove old sensor, inspect the mounting surface for debris; clean as needed.
• Install new CKP sensor to the correct torque and set the proper air gap as specified by the manual.
• Reconnect wiring securely, apply dielectric grease to connectors if appropriate.
• Reconnect battery and clear codes; start the vehicle and monitor for symptoms.
• If symptoms persist, consider professional diagnostic steps.

PREVENTION

• Regularly inspect the CKP sensor and its wiring for signs of wear, heat damage, oil leaks, or corrosion, especially if you see oil leaks from valve covers or seals.
• Keep the engine bay clean and dry; fix any oil leaks promptly to prevent sensor contamination.
• Address water intrusion or damaged weather seals that could affect electrical connections.
• Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket sensors and connectors to minimize compatibility issues.
• Periodically update vehicle software if Toyota issues official updates related to CKP interpretation (service centers will advise if applicable).
• If you modify the engine orElectrical accessories, ensure any new wiring does not interfere with CKP signals.

Important data limitations

• The provided NHTSA data for 2020–2024 Corolla only includes one owner complaint for P0401 and no recalls. There is no P0336-specific complaint data in the given dataset.
• The diagnostic steps, causes, and repair estimates above are based on general automotive knowledge for P0336 and common Toyota CKP behavior. Individual vehicle behavior can vary; always verify with the factory service manual for your exact model and engine code (e.g., M20A-FKS in many 2020–2024 Corollas).
• If you rely on third-party information, ensure it aligns with Toyota’s service documentation.