P0386 on Cadillac: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft Position Sensor "B" Circuit Range/Performance
1 Cadillac model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $200-$500 repair
P0386 on Cadillac by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The dual crankshaft position sensors on the 2000-2002 Northstar (which feed the coil-on-plug PCM directly) develop cracked solder joints at an internal resistor, causing intermittent chuggle, stalling while driving, long cranking, or a hot no-start that often resolves once the engine cools. GM ran a voluntary emissions campaign on certain 2000 Eldorado and Seville 4.6L vehicles for this defect, and RepairPal documents it as a top Eldorado driveability problem. Because both sensors live behind the oil filter adapter and fail similarly, the accepted practice is replacing both at once.
Common Symptoms
- Intermittent stalling while driving, often restarting after the engine cools
- Long crank time or no-start when hot
- Engine chuggle or stumble at speed
- Check engine light with crank-sensor codes such as P0335 or P0385
- Tachometer drops to zero just before the stall
How to Fix
Replace both crankshaft position sensors (A and B) together, then perform the CKP system variation relearn with a Tech II-type scan tool. Typical independent-shop cost is roughly $200-$500 for both sensors including labor.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0386 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 P0386 mean on a Cadillac?
P0386 stands for "Crankshaft Position Sensor "B" Circuit Range/Performance." This generic OBD-II code sets when the powertrain control module detects that the signal from the secondary ("B") crankshaft position sensor is out of its expected range or behaving erratically (intermittent, noisy, or inconsistent with other engine speed/position inputs). The crankshaft position sensor reports engine RPM and crank angle, which the PCM uses to control fuel injection and ignition timing. On Cadillac it is documented across 1 model: Eldorado.
What are the most common causes of P0386?
The most common causes of P0386 are: Faulty or failing crankshaft position sensor 'B', Damaged, corroded, or loose sensor connector or wiring harness, Excessive air gap or debris/metal shavings on the reluctor (tone) wheel, Damaged or misaligned crankshaft reluctor/trigger wheel teeth, Intermittent open or short in the sensor signal/ground circuit, Electromagnetic interference from nearby wiring or a failing PCM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0386 on a Cadillac?
Published repair estimates on Cadillac range from $200 to $500 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 P0386 on a different make?
View P0386 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.