Chrysler Repair: Crank/Cam Sensor: 2.5L engine, cam sensor, crank sensor

Question
I have a 2.5 engine and I was told that I need a new crank system which is in the distributor. Now they are telling me that I need a whole new distributor. Is this true and can any repair tech work on the crank system? Thanks, Cha

Answer
Hi Cha,
The sensor in the distributor is the Cam sensor, the sensor mounted on the engine near the bell housing is the Crank sensor. The fault code numbers for the two sensors are 0340 for the cam, and 0320 for the crank sensor. I would suggest that you get an independent readout of the fault codes from an Autozone parts store or another garage if you feel you are not getting a truthful/accurate report. The crank sensor is much less expensive than a new distributor so you want to know exactly what is the fault code number.
If it is the crank sensor you don't need a distributor at all. If it is the cam sensor I would check with a Chrysler dealer to see if the cam sensor is available separately from the entire distributor. I have the impression that it is not, but it is worth asking, or maybe looking for a used one from a wrecking yard.
Roland