Contents Section: Testing & Diagnostics All sections

Engine Controls - Trouble Shooting - No Codes Dodge Grand Caravan IV

Testing & Diagnostics 5 illustrations ~637 words

INTRODUCTION

Before diagnosing symptoms or intermittent faults, follow proper workflow. On 2.4L, see DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - CARAVAN & VOYAGER - 2.4L article. On 3.3L and 3.8L, see DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER - 3.3L & 3.8L article. On all models, if no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) are present and a no-start condition exists, proceed to NO-START DIAGNOSIS in BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER article. If no DTCs are present and a driveability condition exists, diagnosis by symptom (i.e., ROUGH IDLE, ENGINE STALLS, etc.).

Symptom checks direct technician to malfunctioning component(s) for further diagnosis. A symptom should lead to a specific component, system test or an adjustment.

Use intermittent test procedures to locate driveability problems that do not occur when the vehicle is being tested. These test procedures should also be used if a DTC code is present, but no problem is found during self-diagnostic testing.

PRELIMINARY INSPECTION

Most engine control system driveability problems result from faulty wiring, poor electrical connections, improper wire routing, or leaking air and vacuum hose connections. Inspect all engine control system components, hoses, connectors and wiring for damage before proceeding with symptom diagnosis.

SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS

Symptom checks cannot be used properly unless problem occurs while vehicle is being tested. To reduce diagnostic time, ensure steps in BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER article and SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN & STRATUS SEDAN - 2.4L article or SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER - 3.3L & 3.8L article were performed before diagnosing a symptom. For symptom diagnosis, see the following

  1. ENGINE WILL NOT START. (Scheme 98)
  2. ENGINE STALLS OR IDLES ROUGH. (Scheme 98)
  3. ENGINE LOSS OF POWER. (Scheme 99)
  4. ENGINE MISSES ON ACCELERATION. (Scheme 99)
  5. ENGINE MISSES AT HIGH SPEED. (Scheme 99)
  6. NOISY VALVES. (Scheme 100)
  7. CONNECTING ROD NOISE. (Scheme 100)
  8. MAIN BEARING NOISE. (Scheme 101)
  9. OIL PRESSURE DROP. (Scheme 101)
  10. OIL LEAKS. (Scheme 101)
  11. OIL CONSUMPTION OR SPARK PLUGS FOULED. (Scheme 102)

Scheme 98

Scheme 98

Scheme 99

Scheme 99

Scheme 100

Scheme 100

Scheme 101

Scheme 101

Scheme 102

Scheme 102

INTERMITTENT PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS

Intermittent fault testing requires duplicating circuit or component failure to identify the problem. These procedures may lead to PCM setting a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) which may help in diagnosis.

If problem vehicle does not produce DTC, monitor voltage or resistance values using a DVOM while attempting to reproduce conditions causing intermittent fault. A status change on DVOM indicates a fault has been located.

Use a DVOM to pinpoint faults. When monitoring voltage, ensure ignition switch is in ON position or engine is running. Ensure ignition switch is in OFF position or negative battery cable is disconnected when monitoring circuit resistance. Status changes on DVOM during test procedures indicate area of fault.

Intermittent Simulation

To reproduce the conditions creating an intermittent fault, use the following methods

  1. Lightly vibrate component.
  2. Heat component.
  3. Wiggle or bend wiring harness.
  4. Spray component with water.
  5. Remove/apply vacuum source.

Monitor circuit/component voltage or resistance while simulating intermittent. If engine is running, monitor for DTCs. Use test results to identify a faulty component or circuit.