1. What is P0336 in Toyota Camry?

P0336 is an OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Code defined as Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance. For the Toyota Camry’s 2.5L Dynamic Force engine (A25A-FKS/A25D-FKS)—the most popular powertrain in 2018+ Camry models (70% of sales)—this code targets the crankshaft position sensor (CKP): a critical component that sends rotational speed and position data to the ECM, which uses it to sync ignition timing and fuel injection (key for the engine’s 40+ MPG efficiency and smooth power delivery).

The Camry’s ECM expects the CKP sensor to output a consistent AC voltage (0.5–1.5V) as the crankshaft spins. P0336 triggers when the sensor’s signal is erratic, weak, or outside this range—signaling a faulty sensor, contaminated tip, or damaged wiring. This is widespread in 2019-2023 Camry 2.5L models, addressed in Toyota Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 22-008 for CKP sensor wiring harness wear and oil contamination (common in stop-and-go city driving).

2. Common Causes in 2018-2024 Camry Models

P0336 in Camry 2.5L models ties to CKP sensor contamination and wiring stress—here are MA200 V6-diagnosed cases:

• Oil-Contaminated CKP Sensor (2021 Camry XLE 2.5L): An XLE owner with 48,000 miles noticed intermittent no-starts. MA200 V6’s CKP Sensor Signal Test showed erratic voltage (0.2–0.8V). A leaking oil pan gasket coated the sensor tip—cleaning with brake cleaner and replacing the gasket fixed signal consistency.
• Damaged CKP Wiring Harness (2020 Camry SE 2.5L): An SE owner’s P0336 appeared after hitting a pothole. MA200 V6’s Circuit Continuity Test found a broken wire in the harness (near the oil pan). Pothole vibration frayed insulation—repairing with heat-shrink connectors restored voltage flow.
• Faulty CKP Sensor (2019 Camry XSE 2.5L): An XSE owner’s P0336 paired with rough idle. MA200 V6’s Sensor Resistance Test showed 15kΩ (normal: 800–1,200Ω). The sensor’s internal coil failed—replacing with OEM #90919-C2007 restored normal signal (0.8–1.2V).
• Debris on Reluctor Ring (2022 Camry LE 2.5L): An LE owner’s P0336 was intermittent during cold starts. MA200 V6’s Visual Inspection Tool found metal shavings on the crankshaft’s reluctor ring (from an oil change). Cleaning the ring with a soft brush resolved signal interference.

3. Key Symptoms in Toyota Camry

P0336 symptoms in Camry 2.5L models focus on engine timing and starting issues—watch for these signs, especially during cold weather or after short trips:

4. Camry Engines/Trims Prone to P0336

Toyota service data highlights these 2018-2024 Camry configurations with highest P0336 rates (all 2.5L Dynamic Force engines):

5. Diagnostic Steps with ICARZONE MA200 V6

Diagnose P0336 in your Camry 2.5L accurately with MA200 V6’s Toyota-specific tools—follow these steps (engine off, disconnect battery negative terminal first):

Case Example: A 2021 Camry XLE 2.5L failed Step 2 (0.3V erratic) and Step 3 (18kΩ resistance). MA200 V6’s Component Location guided CKP sensor access (remove driver’s-side splash shield). Replacing the sensor and fixing the oil pan gasket fixed P0336—verified by test drive (no no-starts, smooth idle).

6. Fixes for Camry's P0336

Resolve P0336 in your Camry 2.5L with these MA200 V6-verified fixes (match to diagnosis results):

1. Replace CKP Sensor (Crankshaft Position Sensor)

1. Confirm sensor failure via MA200 V6’s Resistance + Signal Tests—raise Camry with jack stands (driver’s-side, secure on frame rail).
2. Remove driver’s-side splash shield (5 plastic clips, flathead screwdriver) to access the CKP sensor (engine block near oil pan).
3. Disconnect sensor connector (press tab to release) and remove 1 mounting bolt (10mm socket).
4. Install OEM CKP sensor (critical: match to engine variant):
   • A25A-FKS (2018-2023): #90919-C2007
   • A25D-FKS (2020-2024): #90919-C2008
5. Torque bolt to 89 in-lbs, reconnect battery, clear codes with MA200 V6, and test start (1 crank = success).

2. Fix Oil Leaks (Oil Pan Gasket, TSB 22-008)

1. Confirm leak via MA200 V6’s Oil Leak Detection—drain oil from pan (remove drain plug, 14mm socket).
2. Remove oil pan (12 bolts, 10mm socket) and scrape old gasket residue with a plastic scraper (avoid metal scratches).
3. Install new OEM oil pan gasket (#04111-06080) + apply Toyota FIPG sealant (#08826-00100) to corner seams.
4. Reinstall oil pan (torque bolts to 18 ft-lbs in crisscross pattern) and refill with 0W-20 full synthetic oil (#00279-0W20-NS).
5. Clean CKP sensor tip with brake cleaner, reinstall, and verify signal with MA200 V6 (0.8–1.2V).

3. Repair Damaged CKP Wiring Harness

1. Locate damaged section (MA200 V6’s Step 4) — harness runs along driver’s-side engine block, secured by zip ties.
2. Cut damaged wire (1/2" from frayed area) and strip 1/4" insulation from both ends.
3. Splice with waterproof heat-shrink connectors (#64013-1) and heat with a gun (critical for oil resistance).
4. Wrap repaired harness with abrasion-resistant tape (#3M 8810) and re-secure to engine block with zip ties.
5. Test continuity with MA200 V6—ensure resistance <0.5Ω before reconnecting the sensor.

7. Repair Costs & Maintenance Tips

Camry 2.5L P0336 repair costs vary by cause—use this table to budget (note: no-starts = urgent repair):

Maintenance Tips for Camry 2.5L Owners

• XLE/XSE trims (family use): Inspect CKP sensor for oil leaks every 15,000 miles (per TSB 22-008)—clean tip with brake cleaner if oily.
• Change engine oil every 5,000 miles (short trips) or 7,500 miles (highway)—use Toyota 0W-20 full synthetic (#00279-0W20-NS) to reduce leaks.
• After oil changes: Check for metal shavings on the CKP sensor tip—clean immediately to avoid signal interference.
• 2018–2019 models: Upgrade to 2020+ CKP sensor (#90919-C2008) to fix old coil design flaws (preventive).
• Inspect CKP wiring harness every 10,000 miles—re-secure loose zip ties to prevent vibration wear (pothole-prone areas).
• Perform MA200 V6’s CKP Sensor Health Check quarterly (before winter) to catch weak signals early.

8. Preventive Maintenance for Toyota Camry

Avoid P0336 in your Camry 2.5L with these Toyota-recommended steps, tailored to daily commuting and family use:

• CKP Sensor & Reluctor Ring Care:
  • Use only OEM CKP sensors—aftermarket sensors have inconsistent coil resistance and fail in 6–12 months of daily use.
  • Clean the reluctor ring with a soft bristle brush every 30,000 miles—remove metal shavings or oil residue (use brake cleaner sparingly).
  • Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the sensor connector annually—repels moisture and prevents corrosion.
• Oil System Maintenance:
  • Replace the oil pan gasket every 80,000 miles (preventive)—worn gaskets are the #1 cause of CKP sensor oil contamination (TSB 22-008).
  • Use a Toyota-approved oil filter (#04152-YZZA6)—aftermarket filters let debris pass, increasing reluctor ring contamination risk.
  • Check oil level monthly—low oil causes the pan to vibrate more, worsening gasket wear and wiring stress.
• Wiring & Engine Care:
  • Wrap CKP wiring harness with heat-resistant tape (#3M 8810) near the exhaust manifold—prevents heat damage to insulation.
  • Avoid driving over deep potholes—slow down to reduce vibration that loosens harness zip ties and damages wires.
  • For hybrid models: Follow TSB 23-015 and have the reluctor ring aligned every 60,000 miles—misalignment causes false P0336 codes.
• Driving Habits:
  • Combine short trips (e.g., errands) into one longer trip weekly—lets the engine fully warm up, reducing oil condensation on the CKP sensor.
  • Avoid "cold starts" followed by immediate driving—let the engine idle for 30 seconds to 1 minute to stabilize oil flow.
  • Use top-tier gasoline (e.g., Chevron, Shell)—reduces carbon buildup that can flake off and contaminate the reluctor ring.

9. Camry-Specific FAQs