Sluggish Voyager Diesel Shows Classic Timing Belt Signs

I experienced nearly identical symptoms on my 2011 Chrysler Grand Cherokee diesel. The sluggish performance and increased fuel consumption pointed to a failing crank sensor, which was affecting the timing signals between the crankshaft and camshaft. Initially, the reference values from the cam sensor were inconsistent, causing the engine management system to receive incorrect timing data. The mechanic confirmed this by checking the timing chain tension and running a diagnostic scan which showed timing-related fault codes. The fix required replacing both the crank sensor and checking the timing chain components. This was a serious repair that needed immediate attention, as continued driving could have led to complete engine failure. The symptoms match your description perfectly, poor performance, increased fuel usage, and persistent check engine light. A faulty crank sensor disrupts the entire engine timing sequence, affecting fuel injection timing and engine performance. Since your vehicle shows similar symptoms, I strongly suggest getting the timing signals verified with proper diagnostic equipment before assuming it is just a timing belt issue. The repair was unavoidable as these sensors are crucial for proper engine operation. Getting it fixed resolved all symptoms and restored normal engine performance.

Thanks for your detailed explanation of the crankshaft sensor issue. The symptoms really match what I am experiencing with my Voyager. I had actually scheduled an appointment with a different shop for next week since these timing issues seem serious. Just wondering, do you remember roughly how much you paid for the complete repair? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the fix, or have you noticed any other timing chain or engine synchronization problems?

Had the repair done last month actually. The shop replaced the defective crankshaft sensor and recalibrated the engine synchronization signals. Total cost was 340€ which included diagnostics and labor. The timing chain was inspected but thankfully needed no work. The crucial fix was correcting the crankshaft to camshaft reference value, which was causing the misfire symptoms and poor performance. Since the repair, engine performance returned to normal with no timing issues whatsoever. Fuel consumption is back to standard levels and the check engine light has stayed off. The technician explained that leaving a faulty crank sensor unrepaired could lead to serious engine damage since proper timing between crankshaft and camshaft is essential for engine operation. Getting it fixed early likely prevented more extensive repairs. My suggestion would be to have them thoroughly check the timing signals when you go in. A proper diagnosis will show if the crank sensor is the root cause like in my case. The symptoms really point to timing-related issues rather than mechanical problems with the timing chain itself.

I took your advice and visited a different mechanic last week. The diagnostic scan revealed exactly what you described, a failing crank sensor causing timing issues. The engine synchronization was completely off, leading to those misfire symptoms I mentioned. The repair cost came to 380€, slightly more than yours but still reasonable considering the potential damage that could have occurred. The mechanic showed me the old sensor which was clearly worn out and explained how it was affecting the reference values between the crankshaft and camshaft. After the repair, the difference is remarkable. The sluggish performance is gone, fuel consumption has normalized, and the check engine light finally turned off. The mechanic also inspected the timing belt while they were at it, all looked good there. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of rushing into more extensive repairs at the first shop. The vehicle runs like new now and I have peace of mind knowing the timing issues were properly diagnosed and fixed.