P0336 on Mercedes-Benz
Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
P0336 on Mercedes-Benz vehicles indicates crankshaft position sensor 'a' circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Mercedes-Benz models — most commonly on CLS-Class, E-Class, SLK-Class. 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. Typical repair costs on Mercedes-Benz range from $100 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0336
- •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)
P0336 on Mercedes-Benz by Model
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class(1 issue)
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure2012-2018
The crankshaft position sensor on M276 and M278 engines in the CLS fails without warning, causing an immediate engine stall and no-start condition. The sensor is located in a heat-exposed area near the bellhousing, and thermal cycling degrades the sensor over time. This is a roadside breakdown item that leaves the vehicle completely inoperable.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class(1 issue)
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure2010-2018
The crankshaft position sensor fails due to heat exposure and oil contamination, causing intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, and rough running. The sensor is mounted near the flywheel and exposed to high temperatures.
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class(1 issue)
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure2000-2004
A common issue on early R170 SLK models is failure of the crankshaft position sensor, especially as heat and age degrade the sensor electronics. When the sensor signal drops out, the engine may stall when hot, crank without starting, or cut out intermittently because the ECU loses engine speed reference.
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View P0336 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0336 mean on Mercedes-Benz?▼
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 Mercedes-Benz specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0336 on Mercedes-Benz vehicles?▼
Common causes on Mercedes-Benz: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0336 on a Mercedes-Benz?▼
Repair costs on Mercedes-Benz range from $100 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Mercedes-Benz models have P0336 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0336 on 3 Mercedes-Benz models: CLS-Class, E-Class, SLK-Class.