P0336 on Kia: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
1 Kia model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $120-$400 repair
P0336 on Kia by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The CKP sensor on the Forte becomes heat-sensitive as it ages: the signal drops out once the engine bay is hot, so the engine stalls when coming to a stop or at idle, then refuses to restart until it cools for 10-20 minutes. Owners describe the car cranking normally with no spark/injection event and eventually setting P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit). It is often misdiagnosed as a fuel pump or battery issue because the symptom is intermittent and disappears when the car is cold. Reported across the TD, Koup 2.4 Theta II, and YD/Forte5 cars.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls when slowing to a stop, especially when warmed up
- Cranks but will not start until it cools down
- Long crank time
- Tachometer drops erratically or reads zero while cranking
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Confirm before replacing: watch RPM in live data while the engine stalls or during a hot no-start crank - RPM dropping to zero while cranking points at the CKP. Check the sensor connector and harness for oil contamination and chafing, and verify the tone-ring/flexplate teeth are not damaged. Replace with a genuine Kia sensor rather than a cheap aftermarket unit, as owners report repeat failures with off-brand parts. The sensor is inexpensive; most of the cost is access labor. If P0365/camshaft codes appear alongside it, inspect the CVVT circuit and harness rather than blindly replacing both sensors.
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 Kia?
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 Kia it is documented across 1 model: Forte.
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 Kia?
Published repair estimates on Kia range from $120 to $400 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.