1996 Dodge Caravan diagnosis

LONNIEMAYE

MEMBER
1996 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
218,000 MILES

I drove to Charlotte NC and back to Anderson SC day before yesterday, the following morning drove to Hartwell Ga 15 miles from Anderson on the way back while driving pressing the gas pedal at the speed limit 40 I lost pressure it felt as if the car was in neutral pushing the gas pedal I pulled to the side no yellow light, shifted to each gear no change felt as in neutral then I checked trans fluid it was plenty then I cut van off. Finished eating my burger from wendy's so I started it up and put it in drive the van pulled off got to about 5-10 on dash about to shift into 2nd the van revved up like it was in high gear and immediately like slowed it down being in that neutral state. Soon as I turn the car off and back on put in drive it repeat the above step, so I made my way to the nearest shop stopping & going. The mechanic noticed the van had no reverse even if you shut it off and re start it. He was puzzled and mentioned possible replacing it with a used transmission. Do you have a clue? Can it be input/output speed sensor, or a solenold pack I just looked these terms up on line and don't have a clue. I had it towed to my house while sitting in the drive way I put it in Reverse and hit the gas and it made a loud farting sound but didn't move

3 Replies

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

If you have fluid and it is an overdrive transmission check it for codes, that would be the first step. You can read about its operation under the menu. If its a 3-speed it may just need a filter. Both could be a clogged filter. It will sit a few minutes, and clear up. Only to clog up quickly. Ok

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Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009 AT 10:42 PM

LONNIEMAYE

MEMBER
1 POST

You said filter what type of filter? The van is 3.8 liter 6 cyl dodge caravan le 1996

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Friday, December 25th, 2009 AT 9:24 AM

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

Yeah, the transaxle, although electrics are involved, this type of transmission is much like any automatic, prone to the same needs. It is quite possible you may only need a filter and fluid service. The unit works with fluid, and the fluid is drawn through a filter, a transmission service replaces this fluid and filter(which has an 'o' ring, and in this manner you can see if there is any unusual metal shavings or if it just needs a filter and fluid change, like your engine. This way, you can better understand what's wrong, and how to proceed. It will not hurt the trans. And it just may be the answer. You can ask for a transmission service at most repair or service centers, or if you'd rather do it yourself, it is not a very hard job. But messy. If I can be of any further service, just let me know. OK lonniemay. Got my fingers crossed that may be all it requires. Sure, if your type of transmission(41TE overdrive) has a problem while in Drive, its losing pressure, unable to apply its power causing drive loss, it's usually from this. A good of place to start as any other. There are other possible problems, but getting these basics out of the way just may get you back on the road. K?

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Friday, December 25th, 2009 AT 10:44 PM