The 18X reference signal is produced by the ignition control module. The ICM calculates the 18X reference signal by filtering the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor 18X pulses when the engine is running and CKP sync pulses are also being received. The PCM uses the 18X reference signal to calculate engine RPM and crankshaft position at engine speeds below 1200 RPM. The PCM constantly monitors the number of pulses on the 18X reference circuit and compares the number of 18X reference pulses to the number of 3 X reference pulses and CAM signal pulses being received. If the PCM receives an incorrect number of pulses on the 18X reference circuit, DTC P0336 will set and the PCM will use the 3X reference signal circuit for fuel and ignition control. The engine will continue to start and run using the 3X reference and CAM signals only.
The engine is running (3X reference pulses are being received).
No 18X reference pulses are not received in one engine cycle (720 degrees of crankshaft rotation).
• | The PCM will illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) during the second consecuitive trip in which the diagnostic has been run and failed. |
• | If equipped with traction control, the PCM will command the EBTCM via the serial data circuit to turn OFF traction control, and the EBTCM will illuminate the TRACTION OFF lamp. |
• | The PCM will store conditions which were present when the DTC set as Freeze Frame and Failure Records data. |
• | The PCM will turn OFF the MIL during the third consecutive trip in which the diagnostic has been run and passed. |
• | The History DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction. |
• | The DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool. |
An intermittent may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation or a wire broken inside the insulation. Check for the following conditions:
• | Poor connection at the PCM - Inspect harness connectors for the following conditions: |
- | Backed out terminals. |
- | Improper mating. |
- | Broken locks. |
- | Improperly formed or damaged terminals. |
- | Poor terminal to wire connection. |
• | Damaged harness - Inspect the wiring harness for damage. If the harness appears to be OK, disconnect the PCM, turn the ignition on and observe a voltmeter connected to the 18X reference circuit at the PCM harness connector while moving connectors and wiring harnesses related to the ICM. A change in voltage will indicate the location of the fault. |
• | Incorrect harness routing near secondary ignition components |
• | Faulty Ignition Coil - Remove the ignition coils and inspect the ignition control module and coils for cracks, carbon tracking, or other signs that indicate that the coil secondary circuit is arcing to the ICM or ICM wiring harness. Refer to Ignition Coil Replacement |
• | Secondary ignition wire(s) arcing to wiring harness - Check secondary ignition wires for carbon tracking or other signs of damage. |
Review the Freeze Frame/Fail Records vehicle mileage since the diagnostic test last failed. This may help determine how often the condition that caused the DTC to be set occurs.
Number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed? | -- | ||
2 | Attempt to start the engine. Does the engine start? | -- | ||
3 |
Does the scan tool indicate this DTC failed this ignition? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |
4 |
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | ||
5 |
Does the voltage measure near the specified value? | 3V | ||
6 | Test for a short to voltage or loose connections at the ICM. Refer to Wiring Repairs or Intermittents and Poor Connections Diagnosis and Connector Repairs Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | ||
7 | Replace the ICM. Refer to Ignition Control Module Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | -- | |
8 | Inspect for the following conditions:
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | ||
9 | Inspect for poor connections at the PCM. Refer to Intermittents and Poor Connections Diagnosis and Connector Repairs . Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | ||
Important:: The replacement PCM must be programmed. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming . Replace the PCM. Did you complete the replacement? | -- | -- | ||
11 |
Does the DTC reset? | -- | System OK |