1999 Dodge Caravan My van is making me sad.=-(

LILMAYANICOLE

MEMBER
1999 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
125,000 MILES

First, I have to allow the van to fully warm up before driving. Then it drives ok, but if I stop at a light or get ready to make a turn, it will sometimes cut off. Yesterday, the guys at the shop replaced the IAC valve, but then it started cutting off at every other light. It seems that as long as I'm giving the van gas, its fine. My stepfather says no codes popped up on his scanner, and doesn't see how the guys at the shop diagnosed it being a IAC valve. I've also had the fuel filter replaced on 1-9-09. I'm at my wits' end. Please help!

3 Replies

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Hello
Thanks for the donation.

The repair shop diagnosed it as being the idle air control valve because the symptoms you list are that of the faulty IAC valve. However, if no codes were present then they shouldn't have been throwing parts at it just guessing that it will fix it.

I suggest inspecting the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) tubing for any cracks/collapses.

The PCV system allows a route for the gases to be scavenged and passed back through the engine for consumption. It reduces emissions and keeps the engine from over pressurizing. If one of the PCV tube fails, it can cause stalling.

Post results of the inspection and I will follow up.

Hope this helps.
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Saturday, January 10th, 2009 AT 3:33 PM

LILMAYANICOLE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I will reply promptly, thanks for your suggestion as to what it may be. The guy at the shop told me to bring it in on Monday, I spent 200.00 getting a part replaced that didn't fix the problem. Sorry I couldn't donate more, but I spent all my money on a IAC valve. =( But I will be sure to donate more with my next question. =)

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Sunday, January 11th, 2009 AT 7:27 AM

LILMAYANICOLE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Okay, so I took the van back to the shop where they diagnosed the IAC valve as being faulty. (The new one) They ordered another one, and when THAT one came in, it failed as well. However, the guy at the shop said there was a problem with the computer, as something was supposed to register at 5 volts, and was only coming up to 3 volts. Or something like that. I'm sorry, but cars really aren't my thing, so the lingo just kinda goes over my head. The guy talked to my stepfather, however, and he agreed to what he said. Hopefully this will end my van issues, if not I will ask again. Thanks!

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Wednesday, January 14th, 2009 AT 5:37 PM