Limp mode?

S777HAMM

MEMBER
1997 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

I have a 1997 caravan and the tranny went into limp mode. I recently learned that since I rarely use it, the battery drains which is why I have had to jump it when I use it once a month or so. My speedo and tach work fine but the traction control button is stuck in (track off) I definately think the tranny issue has to do with the battery dying and not a bad tranny, but I do not know what to do to resolve it. What is the issue most likely to be, If it is a solenoid or the tranny computer which would it most likely be, or is it to do with the wire from the tranny to the battery cable?

Their has to be a simple common cause here that relates to limp mode after a battery dies or after it gets jump started.

something commonly happens in these vehicles that puts it into limp mode when the battery drains or when the battery gets jumped? Their has to be a common cause or solution for this popular occurence?

1 Reply

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

When battery is disconnected, or if battery died, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle, but should not cause a limp mood

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors several different engine control system circuits. If malfunction occurs, PCM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) when malfunction is detected, and PCM will enter limp-in mode. In limp-in mode, PCM substitutes values for failed component and provides continuous engine operation

The TCM monitors transaxle for electrical or internal problems. If battery voltage is lost, or TCM senses a transaxle failure and a DTC is set, the TCM de-energizes the transmission control relay which then de-energizes the solenoid assembly. Transaxle then enters limp-in mode. In limp-in mode, only Park, Neutral, Reverse and 2nd gear functions. Transaxle will not upshift or downshift. Vehicle can be operated, but performance will be reduced.
When ignition is turned off and then back on again, the TCM will reset for normal operation until it senses another failure

Most common failure transmission solenoid pack
have to check for codes