Engine

P036C — Camshaft Position Sensor Signal Range/Performance

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P036C means

The engine control module compares the camshaft position sensor signal with the crankshaft sensor signal and expects a specific relationship between them. P036C is a manufacturer-specific code: it is reserved in the SAE/ISO lists, and it is most often associated with a range or performance problem in camshaft sensor "B". Which sensor this is (intake or exhaust, which bank) depends on the make and model.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Rough idle or hesitation under acceleration
  • Reduced power
  • Hard starting or stalling
  • Poor fuel economy

Possible causes

  1. Failed camshaft position sensor
  2. Damaged wiring or a corroded or loose connector, including opens or shorts to ground
  3. Stretched timing chain or belt, or jumped timing
  4. Damaged or dirty camshaft reluctor wheel
  5. Faulty cam phaser or its control valve on variable valve timing engines
  6. Rarely, an ECM fault

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze frame data, and look for crankshaft sensor or misfire codes
  2. Check engine oil level and condition, since many cam phasers depend on it
  3. Inspect the sensor, connector and harness for oil, chafing, cracks and corrosion
  4. Test sensor power, ground and signal wires with a multimeter using the wiring diagram for your model
  5. Compare cam and crank signals on an oscilloscope
  6. Remove the sensor and inspect its tip and the reluctor wheel for wear, metal debris or damage
  7. Verify cam timing and the condition of the chain or belt, using timing marks or scan tool data

Common fixes

  • Replace the camshaft position sensor with an OEM or quality equivalent part
  • Repair or replace the damaged wiring or connector
  • Replace the timing chain or belt and tensioner, and set the timing correctly
  • Replace the reluctor wheel or a faulty cam phaser and control valve
  • Clear the code and road test to confirm it does not return

Questions and answers

What does P036C mean?

It is a manufacturer-specific code, most often pointing to an implausible signal from camshaft position sensor "B". Check the documentation for your make to confirm the exact definition.

Can I drive with P036C?

Only briefly and with care. The engine may run poorly or stall, so have it diagnosed soon.

Will replacing the sensor fix it?

Not always. Check the wiring, connector, oil condition and cam timing first, because the sensor itself may not be the cause.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.