Chrysler Crossfire Crankshaft Position Sensor: A Guide for 2004-2008 Models
Understanding the common failure points and choosing the right replacement crankshaft position sensor for your Crossfire.
- The classic failure symptom is the engine stalling when hot and not restarting until it cools down.
- Bosch is the original equipment manufacturer; using a Bosch replacement is strongly recommended to ensure reliability and proper fit.
- Replacement is a common DIY job, but access is tight. The sensor is on the driver's side rear of the engine and held by one E8 Torx bolt.
- There are no specific recalls for this part on the Crossfire; it is a common wear-and-tear failure item.
Understanding Crankshaft Sensor Failure in Your Crossfire
The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is a known failure point on the Chrysler Crossfire, a trait it shares with its Mercedes-Benz SLK sibling. The sensor is located in a high-heat area at the back of the engine, near the transmission bell housing. Over time, the heat causes the sensor's internal electronics to fail, leading to very specific and predictable symptoms. The most common failure is stalling when the engine is hot, followed by an inability to restart until it cools down.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
If you own a Crossfire, recognizing these symptoms can save you a lot of diagnostic time and trouble. The signs of a failing CPS are consistent across most owner experiences.
- Engine Stalls When Hot: This is the number one sign. The car runs fine when cold, but after 15-30 minutes of driving, the engine will suddenly stall, often at a stop light or when slowing down. 🎬 Watch a real-world example of this stalling symptom in action.
- Crank, No-Start Condition: After stalling, the engine will crank over but will not start. You must wait for the engine to cool down, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, before it will start again.
- Check Engine Light: A failing sensor will often trigger the Check Engine Light. The most common trouble code associated with this failure is P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction).
- Rough Idle and Misfires: As the sensor begins to fail, it can send erratic signals, causing the engine to run rough, misfire, or "hiccup" during acceleration.
- Tachometer Shows Zero During Cranking: In a no-start situation, if you watch the tachometer while cranking the engine and it doesn't move at all, it's a strong indicator the CPS has failed.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: A Critical Choice for the Crossfire
Your Crossfire's engine is a Mercedes-Benz design, and it is sensitive to the quality of its electronic parts. Bosch is the Original Equipment (OE) manufacturer for this sensor. Forum members and mechanics overwhelmingly recommend using only a Bosch replacement. Many aftermarket brands, even reputable ones, have been reported to fail prematurely, cause running issues, or not fit correctly. To avoid doing the job twice, spending a little more on a Bosch sensor is a wise investment.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
While several brands are available, they fall into different quality tiers. Given the critical nature of this part and the engine's sensitivity, sticking to the top tier is highly recommended.
- Tier 1 (OEM / Highly Recommended): Bosch. As the original supplier, Bosch sensors offer the best guarantee of fit, function, and longevity. Hella is another German brand that is sometimes considered a reliable alternative.
- Tier 2 (Reputable Aftermarket): Brands like Delphi, NGK/NTK, and Standard Ignition (SMP) generally have a good reputation. However, for this specific part on this specific vehicle, owner feedback is mixed. They may work, but the risk of a premature failure is higher compared to Bosch.
- Tier 3 (Value Brands): This category includes many store brands and lower-cost options. These are strongly discouraged for the Crossfire's crankshaft sensor, as users report a high failure rate.
Pro Tip: When replacing the sensor, it's a good idea to also clean the electrical connector with electrical contact cleaner and apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the seal to protect against moisture. Some failures are due to a poor connection, not a bad sensor.
Cost of Replacing a Chrysler Crossfire Crankshaft Position Sensor
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Bosch) | $50 - $90 |
| New Aftermarket | $35 - $87 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a recall for the Crossfire crankshaft position sensor?
No. While Chrysler has issued recalls for crankshaft sensors on other vehicles (like Jeeps with 4.0L engines and models with 3.0L diesels), there are no active recalls from the NHTSA for this specific part on the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire. The failures are considered a common maintenance issue due to heat and age.
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located?
It is on the driver's side of the vehicle, at the back of the engine where it connects to the transmission bell housing. Access is tight, and you will likely need to work by feel from the top of the engine bay. It is held in by a single E8 Torx bolt.
🎬 See this step-by-step walkthrough for locating and removing the sensor.Can I replace this sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-friendly job for someone with basic tools and patience. The main challenge is the lack of space. You will need an E8 (external Torx) socket, a ratchet, and a long extension. Many owners have successfully completed the replacement at home in about an hour.
🎬 Follow this guide to replace the sensor yourself using basic tools.Why does my car only stall when it's hot?
This is a classic symptom of electronic component failure. As the sensor heats up, the internal circuits expand and can create an open circuit or a short, causing the signal to fail. Once the sensor cools down, the connection is restored, and it works again until it reaches its failure temperature.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 0261210170 0031532828 0031532728
Location: Driver's side, rear of engine at the bell housing. Retaining Bolt: E8 External Torx. Connector: 2-pin, oval shape.
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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 Crossfire:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding Crankshaft Sensor Failure in Your Crossfire
- Common Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: A Critical Choice for the Crossfire
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Cost of Replacing a Chrysler Crossfire Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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