GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Schematic Reference: Refer to Engine Controls Schematics

Circuit Description

The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor is a magnetic generator type sensor, producing an alternating current signal which increases in both frequency and amplitude as the engine RPM increases. The CKP sensor sends this reference signal to the powertrain control module (PCM) to indicate crankshaft RPM and position. This reference signal along withe camshaft position sensor signal is used by the PCM to calculate fuel injection pulse, establish top dead center for ignition timing and where to start ignition coil and injection sequencing.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM malfunction

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The PCM illuminates the MIL during the second key cycle in which the DTC sets.
    • The PCM will store the conditions which were present when the DTC set as Freeze Frame Data.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • The PCM will turn the MIL OFF on the third consecutive trip cycle during which the diagnostic has been run and the fault condition is no longer present.
    • The DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a fault.
    • A DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool Clear DTC Information function.

Diagnostic Aids

    • An intermittent malfunction may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation, or a broken wire inside the insulation. Inspect harness connectors for backed out terminals, improper matting, broken locks, terminal-to-wire connection before component replacement.
    • If the information included in the Freeze Frame data can be used in determining the vehicle operating conditions when the DTC first set.
    • An intermittent can also be the result of a defective reluctor wheel. Remove the crankshaft sensor and inspect reluctor wheel through sensor hole. Check for the condition of the wheel for porosity, nicks, dents etc. and repair as necessary.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers in the Diagnostic Table.

  1. The OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the freeze frame data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the fault occurred. The information is then stored in the scan tool for later reference.

  2. This step checks whether the DTC P0326 is the result of a hard failure or an intermittent condition. If the engine will not start, crank the engine over (3 consecutive ignition cycles).

  3. Checking the internal resistance of the crankshaft position sensor verifies if the CKP sensor is operating properly.

  4. Both the camshaft position high and CMP/CKP ground circuit need to be checked. Using a DMM, measure resistance of the wires from PCM connector to CKP connector (PCM side), if the DMM reads higher than 0.5 ohms check for a short or high resistance in the circuit. Also using a test light connected to ground with both PCM and CKP connectors uplugged, probe each connector terminal, this will check whether there is a short to battery voltage.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Are any other DTCs set with the exception of DTC P0336?

--

Go to the Applicable DTC Table

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Clear the DTC.
  2. Using the scan tool, place the vehicle into Check Mode.
  3. Operate the vehicle within the Condition for Setting the DTC, (if the car will not start, crank the engine over.)

Does DTC P0336 set?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Diagnostic Aids

4

  1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  2. Disconnect the CKP sensor connector.
  3. Using DMM, measure the resistance of the CKP sensor.

Does the DMM read the specified value?

1630-2740 ohms 50°C (122°F)

or

2065-3225 ohms 100°C (212°F)

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 7

5

  1. Disconnect the PCM harness connector.
  2. Check for an open or short in the CKP sensor.
  3. Repair as necessary.

Was a repair necessary?

--

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 6

6

  1. Check for a poor connection at the PCM and the CKP sensor.
  2. Repair the terminals as necessary.

Was a repair necessary?

--

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 8

7

Replace the crankshaft position sensor.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 9

--

8

Replace the PCM.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 9

--

9

  1. After repairs, use the scan tool clear information function and road test the vehicle with the Freeze Frame conditions that set the DTC.
  2. Check for DTCs.
  3. Review the scan tool data and if not DTCs are stored repair is complete.

Are any DTCs displayed on the scan tool?

--

Go to the applicable DTC table

System OK