So here's what happens...I'm tooting along and the engine seems to be running just fine;then the check engine light comes on and the next thing I know the engine is stuttering (if I give it too much gas it thrusts forward and then stops, thrust forward and then stops).

After this happened the first time over a month ago, I managed to make it home (driving very carefully for a good 15-20 miles from where this all began). I parked the car, went to bed, got up the next morning, and the light was out and the car ran just fine!

About three or four weeks later, it happened again, and once again all seemed well until the check engine light came on at which point the hesitation kicks in; since I was due for an oil change anyway, I pulled into the Valvoline place to get that done and asked them to run the computerized diagnostics...there are two messages, both reading "camshaft position sensor." They couldn't make much of it, except that the problem is probably internal, but the guy cleared both messages from my computer and off I went; once again the car ran just fine afterward.

About a week later (which would actually be last Monday), it came on again on my way to work. The same sequence of events ensued. Once I left work, the light went out!

At this point, it's obvious to me that there's something that needs to be addressed and addressed quick. Anyone have any idea what the problem is and what I could be in for? I'm ashamed to admit that I've been less than diligent about changing the oil on schedule (I figure this may or may not be relevant).

 

What this usually means is that the sensor detected the crankshaft running at slow speeds which probably cause the car to sputter. You may have a problem with your crankshaft.

 

So what am I in for, do you think? And could my lack of diligence in getting the oil changed on schedule have had anything to do with this?

 

i had this same problem on my 98 status es 2.5 v6. had to change out my distributor because the sensor was part of it on the v6 . on the 4cyl you can just change it.

 

I don't think the late oil change had anything to do with it. You will probably need your crankshaft sensor replaced.

 

I just joined this site because of your ? I have the exact same problem to the T. I own a 2006 Stratus SXT 2.4 47700 miles. the problem is the camshaft sensor and you should have it replace immediately or your engine could fail to start the sensor is also linked into your ignition. I'm still trying to find out where it's located at. I've heard to different locations so if anyone could assist on that, it would be a big help?
Thanx

 

so i too have the exact same problem. i changed the camshaft position sensor and everything was fine for about a month and then the light came back on and the same things happened except this time it told me the crankshaft position sensor was bad so i changed that too but this only fixed the problem for about a week. i was then told that maybe i used bad sensors so i changed them again and used ones directly from dodge and the problem remains. PLEASE HELP

 

The sensors are the most common reason for this problem. If you're getting the same codes with known good sensors, than get the timing belt checked out ASAP. I don't recall seeing what year/engine you have, so I can't say if you're sitting on a timebomb or just a major inconvenience. Either way, should get it taken care of soon.

If the belt checks out too (and the timing is in order still), than the marks on the cam and crank may be damaged somehow. The sensors need to know what the rotation is, and if the mark is missing/damaged a good sensor can't read it.

 

sorry it's a 2006 with the 2.4 liter 4 cylinder. how do i check the timing belt? and thank you so much for the help. ive been scouring the net for answers and this is the first place ive found to help. so again thank you very much

 

Take the top timing belt cover off. That will tell you if your belt is shot...