Dodge Journey Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide (2009-2020)
Everything a Dodge Journey owner needs to know about diagnosing and replacing a faulty camshaft position sensor.
- A failing camshaft sensor on a Dodge Journey will typically cause a check engine light, stalling, hard starting, and poor performance.
- The 2.4L engine has two sensors, while the 3.6L V6 has two; replacing them in pairs is recommended.
- A recall for the 2016 2.4L model addressed faulty wiring connectors that can mimic sensor failure; always inspect the wiring.
- Choosing a premium aftermarket brand like Delphi, NGK, or a quality brand like Standard Motor Products is a safer bet than the cheapest option available.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor in a Dodge Journey
When a camshaft position sensor starts to fail on your Journey, the signs can range from annoying to serious. Because the sensor's signal is so important for engine timing, a bad sensor can cause a variety of problems.
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first and most obvious sign. The computer will store trouble codes like P0340, P0344, P0365, or P0390.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall unexpectedly, either while idling at a stoplight or while driving. This can be dangerous.
- Hard Starting or No Start: The engine may crank for a long time before starting, or it may not start at all. This happens because the computer doesn't know the camshaft position to correctly time the spark and fuel.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: Your Journey might shake or vibrate when stopped, and you may feel the engine sputtering or running unevenly.
- Poor Acceleration: The vehicle may feel sluggish and lack power, especially when trying to accelerate or go uphill.
Known Issues: Recalls and TSBs
There was a safety recall (NHTSA 16V-907) for some 2016 Dodge Journey models equipped with the 2.4L engine. The recall addressed improperly manufactured crankshaft or camshaft sensor electrical connectors that could cause an intermittent signal, leading to engine stalling. While the recall was specific to a certain production window, it highlights that wiring and connector issues can mimic a failed sensor. Always inspect the connector for damage or corrosion before replacing the sensor itself. An investigation into this issue was later closed after determining vehicles not included in the recall were at low risk for stalling.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Camshaft Sensor
When it comes to electronic sensors, quality matters. While saving money is tempting, a cheap, low-quality sensor can fail quickly or provide inaccurate readings, leaving you with the same problems. Here’s a breakdown of your options.
Brand Quality Tiers
- OEM / Premium Aftermarket: Mopar is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part. Brands like Delphi, NGK, and Hitachi are often original equipment suppliers to many car manufacturers and are known for their high quality and reliability. These are your best bet for a fit-and-forget repair.
- Quality Aftermarket: Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP) and Dorman offer a good balance of quality and price. They are well-known in the industry and generally produce reliable parts that are a direct fit.
- Budget-Friendly: Brands like Walker Products, Holstein, and others offer a lower-cost alternative. While they can be a good value, their long-term durability may not match that of premium brands. Some owners report success with these, but the risk of premature failure is higher.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Your Dodge Journey's engine has more than one camshaft position sensor. The 2.4L I4 has two (one for intake, one for exhaust), and the 3.6L V6 has at least two. If one sensor has failed due to age and heat, the other is likely not far behind. It is often a good practice to replace them in pairs to save yourself from doing the job again in the near future.
Cost of Replacing a Dodge Journey Camshaft Position Sensor
The cost can vary depending on your engine and which part you choose. The 3.6L V6 sensors can be more difficult to access, increasing labor costs.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $15.95 - $131.02 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Sensor | $50 - $150 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft position sensors does my Dodge Journey have?
It depends on your engine. The 2.4L 4-cylinder engine has two camshaft position sensors, one for the intake camshaft and one for the exhaust. 🎬 Watch: How to replace both sensors on the 2.4L engine. The 3.5L and 3.6L V6 engines also have two sensors, one for each cylinder bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2).
Where are the camshaft position sensors located?
On the 2.4L engine: The sensors are located on the side of the cylinder head. One is at the front, and the other is at the back, near the firewall. On the 3.6L V6 engine: The sensors are at the rear of each cylinder head. The sensor for Bank 1 (rear, near the firewall) is harder to access than the sensor for Bank 2 (front). Replacing the rear sensor may require removing the upper intake manifold.
🎬 See this guide for 3.6L V6 sensor location and replacement.Can I replace the sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for many home mechanics. For the 2.4L engine and the front-facing sensor on the 3.6L V6, the replacement is relatively straightforward, requiring basic hand tools. However, the rear sensor on the 3.6L V6 is much more involved and may require removing the intake manifold, which is a more complex task.
Do I need to perform a "relearn" procedure after replacement?
In most cases, simply replacing the sensor and clearing the trouble codes is enough. However, in some situations, particularly if you've also replaced the crankshaft sensor or done major engine work, a cam/crank relearn procedure using a capable scan tool may be necessary to sync the new sensors with the engine computer.
🎬 Watch: How to perform a cam/crank relearn procedure.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68080819AD 5033308AB 05029811AD
The camshaft position sensor is a Hall-effect sensor that detects the rotation of the camshaft. It typically has a 3-pin electrical connector. The 2.4L and 3.6L engines use different sensor part numbers.
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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.
- Dodge Journey:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor in a Dodge Journey
- Known Issues: Recalls and TSBs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Camshaft Sensor
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
- Cost of Replacing a Dodge Journey Camshaft Position Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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