Chrysler Aspen Crankshaft Position Sensor: A Guide for 2007-2009 Owners
Understanding why your Aspen may be stalling or not starting and how to choose the right replacement sensor.
- A failing crankshaft sensor is a very common cause of stalling and no-start issues in the 2007-2009 Aspen.
- Symptoms include the engine cranking but not starting, stalling while driving, and a Check Engine Light with code P0335.
- For this critical sensor, choosing a high-quality brand like Mopar, NGK/NTK, or Delphi is strongly recommended to avoid repeat failures.
- Replacement requires removing the starter motor, making it a moderately difficult job.
Is Your Chrysler Aspen Stalling or Refusing to Start?
A common and frustrating problem for 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen owners is sudden engine stalling or a crank-no-start condition. You turn the key, the engine turns over, but it never fires up. Or worse, the engine cuts out unexpectedly while you're on the road. While several issues can cause this, a frequent culprit is a failing engine crankshaft position sensor.
Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft Sensor in an Aspen
When this sensor starts to fail, your Aspen will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them can leave you stranded.
🎬 Watch: 6 signs of a failing crankshaft position sensor- Engine Stalls While Driving: This is one of the most reported issues. The engine can shut off at any speed without warning, which can be dangerous.
- Engine Cranks, But Won't Start: The sensor isn't telling the computer to send spark and fuel, so the engine can't run.
- Check Engine Light: A faulty crankshaft sensor will trigger the check engine light. The most common code is P0335. 🎬 See how to fix the P0335 code on Chrysler vehicles
- Hard Starting: The engine may take longer than usual to start, especially when it's already warm.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: Your Aspen may shake or run poorly at a stop because the engine timing is incorrect.
Known Issues for This Vehicle
While there are no official recalls for the crankshaft position sensor on the 2007-2009 Aspen, owner forums are filled with complaints of engine stalling that were ultimately fixed by replacing this sensor, sometimes paired with the camshaft sensor. Many owners replaced multiple other parts before identifying the crank sensor as the root cause.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to critical electronics on Chrysler vehicles, part quality matters. Using a low-quality sensor can cause the original problems to return quickly, leaving you back where you started.
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
These brands are known to meet or exceed original equipment standards. They are the most reliable choices for a critical part like this.
- Mopar: This is the original factory part. It's the benchmark for quality and fit, but also the most expensive option.
- NGK / NTK: Often considered an original equipment manufacturer for many brands, including Mopar. This is a highly trusted brand for sensors and a solid choice if you want OEM quality without the dealer price tag.
- Delphi: A well-known OE supplier. While some users have had mixed results, they are generally considered a reliable option.
- Hitachi: Another respected Japanese OE manufacturer known for high-quality electronics.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer a good balance of value and quality. They are a reasonable choice for many repairs.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): A long-standing aftermarket brand with a generally good reputation for sensors.
- Walker Products: A company that specializes in engine management and fuel system components.
- Holstein: Focuses on sensors and electrical components, offering a dependable aftermarket option.
Tier 3: Value-Oriented Brands
These brands compete on price. While they may function, their long-term reliability can be a gamble for a sensor this critical. Using these brands may result in having to do the job again sooner than you'd like.
- Dorman: While Dorman makes a wide variety of parts, their sensors are often viewed as a value-first option.
- Other budget-focused brands like Prenco, Skyward, and True Tech fall into this category.
A Mechanic's Advice
For a part that can leave you stranded, it's worth spending more for a quality brand. Many professional mechanics recommend using only Mopar or NTK sensors on Chrysler engines to avoid repeat failures.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace the crankshaft position sensor on your Aspen depends on who does the work and the brand of part you choose.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $18 - $126 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Part | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total (Shop Installed) | $168 - $376 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen?
On models with the 5.7L Hemi engine, the sensor is on the passenger side of the engine block, toward the rear. It is located behind the starter motor, which must be removed to access it.
🎬 Watch this video to see the sensor's exact locationCan I replace this sensor myself?
This is a job for an experienced DIYer. Because you need to safely lift the vehicle, remove the passenger-side front wheel, and then remove the starter motor to get to the sensor, it is more involved than a simple plug-and-play part. If you are not comfortable with this, it is best to have a professional mechanic do the work.
Is there a recall for this part?
No. There are no specific recalls for the crankshaft position sensor on the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen. Recalls you may find online are for different engines (3.0L Diesel) not used in the Aspen.
Should I replace the camshaft position sensor at the same time?
Some owners and mechanics recommend it. The camshaft and crankshaft sensors work together, are of a similar age, and can cause similar stalling symptoms. One owner who experienced severe stalling issues only found a solution after replacing both sensors. Replacing both can be good preventative maintenance, especially if you are paying for labor.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 56028815AA 56028815AB 68140678AB 68477925AB
Typically a three-pin Hall effect sensor that reads the crankshaft's rotational position from the engine block.
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.
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