Chrysler 300M Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide (1998-2004)
Is your 300M stalling when it gets hot or refusing to start? Your crankshaft position sensor is a likely suspect.
- The most common symptom is the engine stalling when hot and restarting after it cools down.
- A failing sensor will almost always trigger a P0335 Check Engine Light code.
- For this critical sensor, choose a high-quality aftermarket brand like Delphi or Standard Motor Products over budget options.
- Replacement is a feasible DIY job for those comfortable working under the car; it's located at the rear of the engine near the transmission.
Is Your 300M Stalling? Understanding the Crankshaft Position Sensor
If you own a 1998-2004 Chrysler 300M, you have a car known for its style and performance. However, like any vehicle, it has its common failure points. One of the most frequent issues that can leave you stranded is a failing crankshaft position sensor. This sensor is essential for your engine to run. When it starts to go bad, it can cause problems that seem random at first but often get worse over time.
Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Sensor
A bad crankshaft sensor doesn't always fail completely at once. It often starts with intermittent problems, making it tricky to diagnose. The most common sign for 300M owners is when the engine stalls after it has warmed up, but then restarts after cooling down for a few minutes.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly while driving, especially after it's been running for a while and is hot. This is a serious safety risk.
- No Start or Hard Start: You might find the engine cranks but won't start, or takes a long time to finally turn over. This happens because the computer doesn't get the signal it needs to start the ignition and fuel delivery process.
- Check Engine Light: A failing sensor will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light. A code scan will typically show P0335, which points to a malfunction in the crankshaft position sensor circuit. 🎬 See how to diagnose and fix the P0335 trouble code.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may run poorly, shake, or vibrate at idle because the timing is incorrect. You might also feel the engine stumble or hesitate during acceleration.
A Note on Camshaft vs. Crankshaft Sensors
Your 300M also has a camshaft position sensor, which works with the crankshaft sensor. Sometimes, one failing sensor can cause the computer to report a trouble code for the other. If you replace your crankshaft sensor and the problem continues, the camshaft sensor or the wiring could be the issue.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to critical engine sensors on these Chrysler vehicles, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. While an OEM Mopar part is often the first choice, they can be discontinued or hard to find. For a part this important, choosing a quality aftermarket brand is key to avoiding a repeat failure.
Tier 1: High-Quality OEM Suppliers
- Delphi: A well-respected brand known for making original equipment parts for many car manufacturers. Delphi is generally considered a dependable choice for sensors.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): A long-standing aftermarket manufacturer with a reputation for quality parts. Many professionals trust SMP for engine management components. Just be sure to get their standard line, not the budget "T-Series."
Tier 2: Economy Options
- Dorman: Dorman offers a wide range of parts at a budget-friendly price. However, their quality can be inconsistent, especially for sensitive electronics. It can be a gamble for a critical sensor like this.
- Other Store Brands (e.g., Duralast): These are often rebranded parts from various manufacturers. While they might work, their long-term reliability can be uncertain compared to a dedicated OE supplier.
Pro Tip: Many experienced Chrysler mechanics and owners on forums strongly recommend using an OEM Mopar sensor or one from NTK (a division of NGK). While NTK is not on the provided brand list, Delphi and Standard Motor Products are the next-best choices for reliability.
Cost to Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
Replacing the crankshaft sensor is a common repair. The part itself is not very expensive, and the labor is straightforward for a mechanic with experience on these cars.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $24 - $60 |
| New OEM Sensor (Mopar) | $60 - $90 (if available) |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $100 - $210 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the crankshaft sensor located on the 300M?
The crankshaft position sensor is located on the rear of the engine block, near where the engine meets the transmission. It is accessed from underneath the car and is held in place by a single 10mm bolt.
Can I replace this sensor myself?
Yes, this is a job that a DIYer with some experience can handle. You will need to safely raise the front of the vehicle with a jack and jack stands. Access is tight, but the replacement process itself is simple: disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connector, remove one bolt, and swap the old sensor for the new one. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step replacement guide for the 2.7L engine. It may be necessary to remove a small heat shield to get to it.
🎬 Watch a walkthrough of the sensor and block heater installation.Was there a recall for this part?
There were no specific recalls for the crankshaft position sensor on the 1998-2004 Chrysler 300M. However, Chrysler did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 08-016-08) for some vehicles regarding oversized electrical terminals in the sensor's connector, which could cause an intermittent connection and similar symptoms. If a new sensor doesn't fix the issue, the wiring connector should be inspected.
What happens if I ignore a bad crankshaft sensor?
Ignoring a failing crankshaft sensor is not recommended. The intermittent stalling is a major safety hazard, as your engine could shut off in traffic or on the highway. Eventually, the sensor will fail completely, and your car will not start at all, leaving you stranded.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4609153AC 4609153AD 4609153AE 4609153AF 4727451AA
The sensor is located on the rear of the 3.5L V6 engine block, near the transmission bellhousing. It is secured with a single 10mm bolt and uses a 3-pin oval electrical connector.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler 300M:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your 300M Stalling? Understanding the Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Sensor
- A Note on Camshaft vs. Crankshaft Sensors
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Cost to Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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