Crank shaft position sensor

[r1chard]

I had an error code on the weekend as follows:

P0336: Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

I did not notice any difference in performance (was in low range all the time, some steep hills). Error went away soon after starting the next day. Possibly a result of water in wiring following river crossings.

Where is the sensor, so I can inspect it and it's wiring, and what is it's purpose? I have a CRD manual.

Thanks

-R

[Bigsy78]

Does anyone know where the crank sensor is? I’m having the same problem but it won’t start, just clicks. Good battery and starter motor Same error code

[Hayesio]

The sensor is located at the bottom of the bell housing/engine flange. You cannot access it without removing the transmission, however, you can see the wires and connector harness if you get under the car. Its purpose is to tell the engine control computer how fast the engine is going and what angle the crank is at (for fuel injection etc). Without it, the ECU will not know when to inject fuel into what cylinder.

[Bigsy78]

Thanks Hayesio, what a bugger of a thing to get at. Would it stop the starter motor from turning over?

[Hayesio]

No, I would not think it would have any bearing on the starter motor. However, if it was faulty, the car would most definitely not start - it would just crank around and around.

If your car is not cranking, and there is absolutely no noise from the starter motor, this problem is related to the starter circuit - flat/faulty battery, faulty starter relay, open circuit etc. The start command does go via 3 controllers, so I guess a fault is possible here too, but less likely. I'd start with a battery test, then a voltmeter on the starter motor and starter motor solenoid and work back from there.

[Bigsy78]

The battery and starter are both fine. After clutch starting it will run fine for about an hour and then cut out.

[MidnightMods]

hayesio is pretty much spot on, The crank sensor will use the cam phase sensor and when both are synced the computer will allow the fuel injectors to fire if the fuel rail pressure is high enough.

The crank sensor is at the bottom of the engine, you can see the two wires and plug behind the sump, it would most likely just be because it got wet. If it was faulty or damaged the engine would not start at all. I wouldn't worry about it if its cleared.

A clicking starter has nothing to do with the sensor, I would open the starter up. Many owners are finding them full of mud.