Will crank one time and try to start, afterwards it refuses to crank at all?

WOODJJ

MEMBER
1999 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN
3.3L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
165,980 MILES

Flex fuel.
One crank no start

• Jumpering the starter relay will crank the engine; relay tests fine but also swapped with front blower relay(that works) anyway. When key is on and starter forced to crank, there is good spark at plugs.
• Changed fuel filter and new fuel pump; fuel rail has correct fuel pressure.
• Verified engine compression on all 6 cylinders
• Have a new pcm programmed to vin number.
• Verified battery has 12.6 volts and passed load test. No corrosion found
• PCM has only 2 plugs (pins 1-40) & (pins 41-80)

• vehicle will crank one time and try to start; afterward it refuses to crank at all; lights bright, fuel pump primes, relays click, but no crank. Can swap PCM to original and have the same results. Usually have to wait an hour for something to clear in either PCM while disconnected and then install, resulting in ONE crank and then nothing.

I've run out of things to test.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,967 POSTS

It seems like you've covered a lot of potential causes for the crank no-start issue on your 1999 Grand Caravan. Considering the information provided, here are a few additional possibilities to consider:

Ignition Switch: A faulty ignition switch can sometimes cause intermittent starting issues. It's responsible for sending the signal to the starter relay to engage the starter when the key is turned. If the switch is not making proper contact, it may work sporadically or fail entirely.

Neutral Safety Switch (NSS): The NSS is a safety feature that prevents the engine from starting unless the transmission is in Park or Neutral. A faulty NSS can prevent the engine from cranking.

Security System: The vehicle's security system, if equipped, can sometimes cause starting issues. Check if the security light is blinking or if there's an immobilizer system that might be interfering with starting.

Wiring and Grounds: Inspect the wiring harnesses for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure all electrical connections are secure, including grounds.

Voltage Drop Test: Perform a voltage drop test on the starter circuit to check for excessive resistance in the cables or connections.

Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) and Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): These sensors provide critical information for proper fuel injection and spark timing. A fault in either sensor can lead to a no-start condition.

PCM Grounds and Power Supply: Check that the PCM is receiving proper grounds and power supply, as any issues with these can affect its functionality.

Anti-Theft System Reset: If the vehicle has an anti-theft system, try performing a system reset procedure as outlined in the owner's manual.

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Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 AT 3:53 PM

WOODJJ

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Will single start in either park or neutral. Never had a chip on keys, security is in the PCM, if any. No corrosion found anywhere. Would like to find a schematic of pins for the PCM for further testing. Will test and verify CMP and CKP; will also perform a voltage drop test and post my results.

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Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 AT 4:50 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,967 POSTS

Sure, here are the PCM wiring diagrams and a guide to help you with the testing.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Check out the images (below). Please let us know how it goes.

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