Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide for 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber
Having trouble with stalling, a rough idle, or your check engine light? Your Caliber's camshaft position sensor could be the culprit.
- Symptoms like stalling, hard starting, and a rough idle are common signs of failure.
- Your Caliber has two identical camshaft sensors; it's wise to replace both at once.
- The replacement is simple, requiring only basic tools and access to the top of the engine.
- Always check the wiring and connector for damage before replacing the sensor.
Is Your Dodge Caliber Stalling or Hard to Start?
A failing camshaft position sensor is a common issue on the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber that can cause a range of frustrating engine problems. Because this sensor is vital for engine timing, a bad signal can make your car run poorly or even prevent it from starting. Symptoms often appear intermittently at first, making them tricky to diagnose. Fortunately, this is a repair most DIY mechanics can handle, and the parts are affordable.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor
If the camshaft position sensor in your Caliber is going bad, you will likely experience one or more of the following issues:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. A scan tool will typically show codes like P0340, P0344, P0365, or P0017.
- Difficulty Starting: The engine may crank for a long time before it starts, or it might not start at all.
- Engine Stalling: The car may stall unexpectedly while driving at low speeds or when stopped.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine may shake, run unevenly, or you might feel a shudder while driving.
- Reduced Power and Poor Acceleration: Your Caliber may feel sluggish and slow to respond when you press the gas pedal.
- Worse Fuel Economy: Incorrect timing can cause the engine to burn more fuel than necessary.
Important: These symptoms can also be caused by other issues, like a bad crankshaft position sensor, wiring problems, or even a failing alternator. It's always best 🎬 Watch how a failing alternator can mimic cam sensor codes. to scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to confirm the problem is related to the camshaft position sensor circuit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to electronic sensors, quality can vary significantly between brands. While an OEM Mopar sensor is always a safe bet, many aftermarket brands offer a good balance of quality and value. For critical sensors like the camshaft position sensor, it is often recommended to use either the OEM part or a top-tier aftermarket brand to avoid replacing the part again 🎬 See why some mechanics insist on OEM over aftermarket sensors. in a few months.
Your 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber has two camshaft position sensors (Intake and Exhaust), and they are the same part number. It is often recommended to replace both at the same time, as the second one may fail soon after the first.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Dodge Caliber
- Premium Brands (Often OEM Suppliers): Delphi, NGK, Hitachi. These brands are known for their quality and reliability and are a solid choice if you want to avoid issues.
- Mid-Grade/Trusted Brands: Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products), Walker Products, Dorman. These brands are widely available and generally offer dependable performance for the price. Dorman is a popular choice that aims to match original fit and function.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Crown Automotive, Holstein, Spectra, and others. These can be a good option if cost is the primary concern, but their long-term reliability may be less consistent than premium brands.
Pro Tip: Check the Wiring First
Before you replace the sensor, inspect the wiring harness and connector. A loose connection or a damaged, corroded wire can cause the same symptoms as a failed sensor. A recall was issued for some 2016 models for this exact issue, highlighting the importance of checking the connector.
Installation Overview
Replacing the camshaft position sensors on a Dodge Caliber is a straightforward job that can be done with basic hand tools. The sensors are located on the top of the engine's valve cover, one on the front (intake) and one on the back (exhaust).
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace both sensors yourself.- Locate the sensors: They are on the cylinder head, held in by a single 10mm bolt each.
- Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components.
- Remove the connector: Squeeze the tab and pull the electrical connector off the sensor.
- Remove the bolt: Use a 10mm socket to remove the single mounting bolt.
- Remove the old sensor: Gently twist and pull the sensor out. It may be snug. Make sure the old O-ring comes out with it.
- Install the new sensor: Lightly oil the new O-ring with clean engine oil and insert the new sensor, making sure it's fully seated. Hand-tighten the bolt; do not overtighten.
- Reconnect everything: Plug the electrical connector back in and reconnect the battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft position sensors does a 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber have?
The Dodge Caliber with the 1.8L, 2.0L, or 2.4L engine has two camshaft position sensors. One is for the intake camshaft (often called Sensor 'A' or Bank 1) and the other is for the exhaust camshaft (Sensor 'B'). They are identical parts.
Can I drive my Caliber with a bad camshaft position sensor?
It is not recommended. While the car may still run, you risk stalling in traffic, which is dangerous. Continuing to drive can also cause further engine problems or leave you stranded if the car refuses to start.
Should I buy an OEM Mopar sensor or is aftermarket okay?
For electronic sensors, many mechanics recommend using OEM parts to ensure compatibility and longevity. However, reputable aftermarket brands like Delphi or NGK are often excellent alternatives. Budget-friendly brands can be a gamble on long-term reliability.
What is the difference between a camshaft and a crankshaft sensor?
They work together but measure different things. The camshaft sensor tracks the position of the camshafts at the top of the engine, while the crankshaft sensor tracks the crankshaft's position at the bottom. The computer uses both signals to precisely control engine timing. A failure in either sensor can cause similar symptoms.
Are there any recalls for the Dodge Caliber camshaft position sensor?
There are no specific recalls for the camshaft position sensor itself on the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber. However, there have been recalls for related components on other model years, such as the sensor wiring harness or the crankshaft position sensor tone wheel, which can cause similar stalling issues.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5033308AB 68080819AD
The 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber uses two identical hall-effect camshaft position sensors, one for the intake cam and one for the exhaust cam. Each is secured by a single 10mm bolt.
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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.
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