1. What is P0315 in Chevrolet Silverado?

The P0315 OBD-II code stands for Crankshaft Position System Variation Not Learned. For the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2014-2023)—America’s top-selling full-size pickup—this code targets the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor and engine control module (ECM) relearn process in the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine (standard in LT, LTZ, and High Country trims). The CKP sensor tracks crankshaft rotation to sync fuel injection and ignition timing—critical for maintaining towing power (max 11,600 lbs for 5.3L 4x4 models) and fuel efficiency (up to 23 MPG highway).

The Silverado’s ECM requires a "crankshaft variation relearn" after CKP sensor replacement, battery disconnection, or engine work. This process teaches the ECM to account for minor manufacturing variations in the crankshaft. P0315 triggers when the ECM fails to complete this relearn—or when the CKP sensor sends inconsistent signals—signaling a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or ECM software issue. This is widespread in 2016-2022 Silverado 5.3Ls, addressed in Chevrolet Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 18-NA-355 for ECM calibration updates and relearn procedure adjustments.

Silverado Specific Note: The CKP sensor in the 5.3L EcoTec3 is mounted on the engine block’s front, near the harmonic balancer. LT and LTZ trims—used heavily for towing and work—are 3x more likely to trigger P0315: towing strains the crankshaft, while frequent battery jumps (common for work trucks) erase the ECM’s relearn data.

2. Common Causes of P0315 in 2014-2023 Silverado

P0315 in Silverado 5.3L models is tied to relearn failures and sensor wear—below are real-world cases diagnosed with the ICARZONE UR800:

• Uncompleted Crankshaft Relearn (2020 Silverado LT 5.3L): An LT owner replaced the CKP sensor but didn’t perform a relearn. The UR800’s Relearn Status Test showed "Incomplete." Running the UR800’s "Chevy Crankshaft Relearn" tool successfully taught the ECM to recognize crankshaft variation—clearing P0315.
• Faulty CKP Sensor (2018 Silverado LTZ 5.3L): An LTZ owner with 65,000 miles reported rough starts. The UR800’s CKP Signal Test showed inconsistent voltage spikes (normal: steady 0.5–1.0V pulses). The sensor’s internal coil failed—replacing it with OEM #12673134 restored signal consistency.
• Damaged CKP Wiring (2016 Silverado High Country 5.3L): A High Country owner’s P0315 was intermittent. The UR800’s Circuit Continuity Test found a broken wire in the sensor harness (rubbed against the harmonic balancer). Splicing the wire with heat-shrink connectors (#Dorman 85518) fixed the signal.
• Outdated ECM Software (2021 Silverado LT 5.3L): An LT owner’s P0315 persisted after relearn. The UR800’s ECM Version Check showed outdated firmware (v1.2.0). Updating to v1.5.0 via UR800’s "Chevy Calibration" tool resolved the relearn failure (addressed in TSB 18-NA-355).

3. Key Symptoms of P0315 in Silverado 5.3L

P0315 symptoms in the Silverado worsen with towing or cold starts—watch for these timing-related signs:

4. Silverado Trims/Engines Prone to P0315

Chevrolet service data highlights these 2014-2023 Silverado 1500 configurations with the highest P0315 occurrence rates (all 5.3L EcoTec3 V8):

5. Diagnose P0315 with ICARZONE UR800

Diagnose P0315 in your Silverado 5.3L accurately with the UR800’s Chevy-specific crankshaft tools. Follow these steps (engine off, key in "ON" position):

Case Example: A 2019 Silverado LT failed Step 3 ("Incomplete") and Step 5 (TSB 18-NA-355 eligible). The UR800’s Crankshaft Relearn Tool walked through the procedure (idle 5 mins, rev to 2,500 RPM 3x), and updating the ECM firmware fixed P0315—verified by towing a 7,000-lb trailer with no rough idle.

6. How to Fix P0315 in Silverado 5.3L

Resolve P0315 in your Silverado with these UR800-verified solutions (match to your diagnosis results):

1. Perform Crankshaft Relearn (Most Common Fix)

1. Confirm incomplete relearn via UR800’s Step 3. Ensure the Silverado is parked on level ground, with a full tank of gas and battery voltage >12.4V (use UR800’s battery test tool).
2. Connect the UR800 to the OBD-II port and select "Chevrolet" > "Silverado 1500" > "ECM" > "Crankshaft Relearn Procedure."
3. Follow UR800 prompts:
   • Start the engine and idle for 5 minutes (ECM warms up).
   • Rev the engine to 2,500 RPM and hold for 30 seconds (do not exceed 3,000 RPM).
   • Return to idle for 2 minutes, then repeat the rev cycle 2 more times.
4. The UR800 will confirm "Relearn Successful" when complete. Turn off the engine and wait 10 minutes for the ECM to save data.
5. Clear P0315 with the UR800 and test drive for 15 miles—verify no rough idle or power loss.

2. Replace Faulty CKP Sensor

1. Confirm sensor failure via UR800’s Step 2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and raise the Silverado with jack stands (secure on frame rails).
2. Locate the CKP sensor: Front of the engine block, near the harmonic balancer (passenger side). Remove the sensor’s electrical connector (press the tab).
3. Remove the sensor with a 10mm socket (one mounting bolt) — use penetrating oil if stuck (avoids breaking the bolt).
4. Install an OEM CKP sensor:
   • 2014-2018 Silverado: #12673134
   • 2019-2023 Silverado: #12699317 (updated signal coil design)
5. Torque the sensor to 89 in-lbs, reconnect the connector and battery. Must perform crankshaft relearn (Step 1 above) after replacement.

3. Update ECM Firmware (TSB 18-NA-355)

1. Confirm TSB eligibility via UR800’s Step 5. Ensure the Silverado is parked in a well-ventilated area (ECM update takes 15–20 minutes).
2. Connect the UR800 to the OBD-II port and select "Chevrolet" > "Silverado 1500" > "ECM" > "Firmware Update."
3. The UR800 will detect the current ECM version and prompt to download the latest update (matches TSB 18-NA-355 specs).
4. Do not turn off the engine or disconnect the UR800 during the update. The tool will alert you when complete.
5. Restart the engine, run a quick relearn (5-minute idle), and clear P0315. Test drive to confirm no recurrence.

7. P0315 Repair Costs & Maintenance Tips

P0315 repair costs for the Silverado 5.3L vary by cause. Use this table to budget:

Maintenance Tips for Silverado 5.3L Owners

• LT/LTZ (towing users): Perform a crankshaft relearn after every battery replacement or jump—use the UR800 to avoid P0315 (takes 10 minutes).
• Replace the CKP sensor every 100,000 miles (preventive) — use OEM sensors only; aftermarket sensors often have weak signals that trigger relearn failures.
• Inspect the CKP wiring during oil changes—ensure it’s secured away from the harmonic balancer (use zip ties) to prevent rubbing and damage.
• Keep ECM firmware updated: Use the UR800’s "Chevy TSB Check" quarterly to apply updates (like TSB 18-NA-355) that fix relearn bugs.
• Avoid frequent short trips (under 5 miles) — they drain the battery, increasing the need for jumps and erasing relearn data. Combine errands into longer drives.

8. Silverado-Specific FAQs