Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance
The P0386 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $80 - $400 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P0386?
- Check Engine Light on
- Engine runs rough
- Intermittent misfires
- Timing-related performance issues
What Causes P0386? (Most Likely First)
- Failing crank sensor B with degraded signal Very High
- Incorrect sensor air gap High
- Reluctor wheel damage Moderate
- Wiring interference Low
Can I Still Drive with P0386?
No — stop driving. P0386 is rated critical severity. Continuing to drive in this state risks further damage — get it looked at before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does range/performance mean for a crank sensor?
The sensor produces a signal but it is outside the expected quality range. The signal may be weak, noisy, or inconsistent compared to specification.
Can the air gap cause P0386?
Yes, if the sensor is too far from or too close to the reluctor wheel, the signal amplitude or shape can be out of range.
Is P0386 a sensor or reluctor problem?
Usually the sensor. Reluctor wheels rarely degrade gradually; they either work or have obvious physical damage.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0386?
-
Compare sensor B signal quality to sensor A on oscilloscope.
-
Check sensor air gap.
-
Inspect reluctor wheel.
-
Check wiring routing for EMI sources.
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P0386?
- 2010-2020 Ford F-350 (6.7L Diesel)
- 2012-2019 GMC Sierra 2500 (6.6L Duramax)
- 2008-2018 Ram 3500 (6.7L Cummins)
- 2011-2020 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (6.6L Duramax)
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