P0320 on RAM: How to Diagnose & Fix
Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Malfunction
1 RAM model · 1 documented issue · $50-$250 repair
P0320 on RAM by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 3.9/5.2/5.9 Magnum uses a camshaft position sensor inside the distributor plus a crankshaft position sensor on the bell housing. These sensors are heat-sensitive and fail intermittently — the engine stalls or dies when hot and refuses to restart until it cools, or cranks-but-won't-start with no other symptom. Corroded/loose sensor connectors cause the same behavior.
Common Symptoms
- Stalls when hot, restarts after cooling
- Cranks but won't start
- Intermittent dying while driving
- Rough idle before failure
- Tach drops to zero at stall
How to Fix
Inspect the sensor connectors/wiring for corrosion or a pulled pin first. Replace the failing sensor with a Mopar unit (owners report frequent failures of cheap aftermarket sensors): camshaft (distributor pickup) sensor Mopar 56027868 and crankshaft position sensor 56027865 (verify by engine/year). On distributor-cam-sensor trucks a full distributor may be needed if the pickup is integral. Parts $30-$150; typical $50-$250.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 56027272 crankshaft position sensor
1994-1996 Dodge Ram 1500 3.9L, 5.2L or 5.9L applications listed; confirm OE 56027272 and connector before purchase.
- Crankshaft position sensor replacing Mopar 56027870AB
The live page explicitly lists 1998 3.9L and 1999-2003 5.9L Ram 1500 applications; other 1997-2003 automatic Magnum combinations must be confirmed by OE number/VIN rather than inferred.
- Mopar 56027871AB manual-transmission crankshaft position sensor
1997-2003 Dodge Ram Magnum applications using OE 56027871AB with manual transmission; confirm engine, transmission and connector.
- Mopar 56026746 distributor pickup / camshaft position sensor
1994-1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Magnum applications cross-referenced to 56026746; confirm distributor and connector.
- Genuine Mopar 56028143 distributor pickup / camshaft position sensor
1998-2003 Dodge Ram 1500 applications shown by the catalog; confirm engine, distributor and VIN because the page also covers other Dodge/Jeep models.
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Sources for this issue (2)
P0320 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0320 mean on a RAM?
P0320 stands for "Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Malfunction." The ECM/PCM detected a malfunction in the ignition or distributor engine-speed (RPM) input circuit. This circuit supplies the engine-speed reference used for spark timing and fuel control; a general fault here (open, short, or signal loss) is flagged as P0320. On distributorless systems this maps to the crank/ignition RPM reference. On RAM it is documented across 1 model: 1500.
What are the most common causes of P0320?
The most common causes of P0320 are: Faulty crankshaft/distributor RPM pickup sensor, Damaged wiring or connector in the RPM input circuit, Poor ground or corroded connector, Faulty ignition module, Air gap or damaged reluctor/trigger wheel. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0320 on a RAM?
Published repair estimates on RAM range from $50 to $250 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0320 on a different make?
View P0320 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.