Dodge Nitro Timing Issues Drain Power and Fuel Economy

Had similar issues on a 2009 Dodge Journey. Started with sporadic misfires and poor acceleration, followed by the check engine light. The crank sensor was failing intermittently, causing timing problems between the crankshaft and camshaft positions. The repair involved replacing both the crank sensor and cam sensor since they work as a paired system. The timing belt was also showing wear, so it needed replacement to prevent more serious engine damage. When these sensors fail, the engine management system cant properly time fuel injection and spark, leading to the symptoms you describe. This isnt a quick fix job since accessing these components requires removing several engine parts. The crank sensor failure can lead to complete engine shutdown if ignored. Main warning signs include rough idle, stalling, and significant power loss, matching your symptoms. The cam and crank sensor replacement is a critical repair that shouldnt be postponed. A faulty timing system can cause serious engine damage if the pistons hit the valves. Would suggest finding a shop that specializes in Dodge engines and can properly diagnose the timing issues with the right diagnostic equipment.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Journey. Makes me feel better knowing Im not alone with these timing issues. Quick question, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the full repair including the sensors and timing belt? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the fix or did you notice any other related problems pop up? My timing belt is probably due for replacement anyway considering the mileage, so might as well tackle both issues at once if the reference values from the sensors are indeed the root cause of these misfires.

I paid 340€ total for the crankshaft sensor replacement, including diagnostic work and labor. Glad to report no further issues since getting it fixed. The key was addressing that crankshaft to camshaft reference value, once the mechanic corrected that, the engine performance returned to normal and the misfires completely stopped. Looking back, replacing the timing belt at the same time would have been smart preventive maintenance. The labor costs overlap since they are working in the same area. Would definitely recommend getting both done together to save on labor charges. The engine light hasnt come back on and fuel consumption is back to normal levels. The computer readings are now showing correct sync between crank sensor and cam timing. The repair shop actually showed me the before and after diagnostic values, the difference in engine performance was immediately noticeable after they installed the new crank sensor.

Finally went ahead and got everything fixed last week. Found a well-reviewed shop specializing in engine diagnostics and timing issues. Total bill came to 780€, they replaced both sensors, timing belt, and a worn tensioner they spotted during inspection. The mechanic confirmed the engine synchronization was way off, leading to those misfires and performance problems. He showed me the old crank sensor which was definitely shot. The reference values from the new sensors immediately brought the engine back to life, running smoother than it has in months. Really glad I went ahead with the timing belt replacement too. The mechanic pointed out some concerning wear that could have caused major problems down the road. The engine light is now off and fuel consumption is back to normal. Best part is the horrible vibration during acceleration is completely gone. Definitely learned my lesson about not ignoring these timing-related warning signs. The repair wasnt cheap but worth every cent considering the potential damage that could have happened to the engine.