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2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee P0725 Pending Code: Engine Dies Intermittently with No Start After Cranking

Model: 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fault Code: P0725 Posted: 2011-01-20 23:50

2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 4.7L Hemi, 4X4, 130,000 miles. The vehicle runs smoothly most of the time but will intermittently shut down unexpectedly after driving. When this occurs, turning off and then back on the key results in the voltmeter and fuel gauge reading at the bottom of their scales, and the engine spins without starting. After waiting 5 to 15 minutes, it cranks up quickly and starts normally. Diagnostic checks show no active fault codes, but an Actron scanner displays a pending P0725 code — indicating a potential issue with the engine speed sensor or crankshaft position sensor. While this is typically classified as a transmission-related code, the symptoms suggest that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may be losing critical engine RPM data. The question remains: how can a transmission fault code like P0725 cause the PCM to disable engine ignition? Given that the vehicle fails to start during cranking and only resumes after a delay, it's likely that the PCM is not receiving proper crankshaft position signals. This could prevent fuel injection, coil firing, or fuel pump activation. I'm considering replacing the crankshaft position sensor as a low-cost fix — any insights on whether this resolves the issue or if there are other factors to consider?

Related fault codes

P0725

Comments (6)

Anonymous 2011-01-21 05:55

The P0725 code typically indicates an issue with engine speed reference to the PCM, often due to a faulty crankshaft position sensor. While it's listed under transmission systems, in practice, this code can stem from missing RPM signals — especially when the sensor fails to send data during cranking. Without accurate RPM input, the PCM cannot initiate fuel injection or ignition timing. This is a very common failure on 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee models. I recommend replacing the sensor with an OEM part from your local Dodge dealer; aftermarket sensors have been known to perform poorly and may not provide reliable signals in critical start scenarios.

Anonymous 2011-01-21 18:53

Thanks for confirming — my Jeep runs fine most of the time but will suddenly shut down without warning, with no active codes. After a 5-15 minute wait, it starts immediately again. The only code I see on my Actron scanner is the pending P0725, which strongly points to an engine speed sensor issue. Given its low cost and high likelihood of being the root cause, I'm planning to replace the crankshaft position sensor and monitor if the problem resolves.

Anonymous 2011-01-21 20:08

As someone who worked at a Jeep dealership for years, I can confirm that the crankshaft position sensor failure is extremely common on this model. While it may trigger a P0725 code, it often also shows up as a PO325 code in older systems. When using a scan tool during cranking attempts, you'll typically see no RPM signal — which means the PCM won't fire injectors or activate coils. This directly leads to the engine not starting even when the key is turned. The sensor must be replaced promptly to restore reliable operation.

Anonymous 2011-01-22 11:07

So, do you recommend replacing the crankshaft position sensor and then retesting for the P0725 code or continuing to monitor until it appears again?

Anonymous 2011-01-22 17:33

Yes — I strongly advise installing a new OEM crankshaft position sensor from your local Dodge dealer. It's the most reliable solution given the symptoms and known failure patterns on this model.

Anonymous 2011-01-22 20:33

Thanks for the advice! I'll replace the sensor and see how it performs after that.