Caravan shuts down by itself on the road

HT · #1 02-10-2006, 02:58 AM

My 1997 Grand Caravan 3.8L AWD would just shut down sometimes by itself when I'm driving on the road. I'll pull over and try and start it and it cranks and cranks and cranks but it won't start up. I have to wait like 5-10 minutes then try again and it'll start up and run fine again for awhile and die again randomly when ever within a day or 2.

HELP!

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chopper · #2 02-10-2006, 02:13 PM

One thing it could be is a computer problem.The heat causes the metal conductors to expand and break a connection somehow.If you can get it to do this and have a full diagnostic ran on the vehicle you might find out exactly what it is.Other than that you could just replace the expensive computer and hope for the best.
Another cheaper thing is a bad sensor.It could be any one of several so you would probably be better off to take it in to have any codes read.

stantheman · #3 02-11-2006, 04:05 AM

had a newer one in the shop the other day with the same prob. his finally quit starting all together. ordered a new comp and it fired right up.

Chump · #4 02-15-2006, 04:35 AM

Have it scanned for error codes.

HT · #5 02-23-2006, 08:33 PM

bump for more input

brandoncrone · #6 02-24-2006, 11:32 AM

Could be a camshaft or crankshaft positon sensor. Very common problem and they usually have the same symptoms as you are having. If you cycle the key from off to on 3 times, ending in the on position the check engine should flash out some codes for you. Sometimes that doesn't work though, and you have to cycle the key like that within 5 seconds.

ASH · #7 02-24-2006, 01:51 PM

Some auto parts stores like Auto Zone have scan tools and will check for error codes for free. Even if your check engine light isn't on, there may be some error codes that have been set. Mechanical issues are harder to track down, so that is why you are getting the advice to check the computer.

petras · #8 02-27-2006, 01:24 AM

i have a 96 gc with a 3.8 with a history of pcm problems, every 50k mi., i need to replace it, mechanics can't find an underlying cause for the pcm going bad that soon, only difference with my experience was that i couldn't restart and had to have van towed..reman. pcms going for around 350, used for around $200, good luck with yours

petras · #9 02-27-2006, 01:27 AM

regarding bad pcms, i just replaced a bad pcm with a used one instead of getting a rebuilt, now i'm wondering if that was a mistake in the long run...do these pcms wear out or do other underlying causes make them eventually go bad? thanks, pete

studdly · #10 02-27-2006, 05:05 PM

try changing the fuel filter... I was having the same problem in my 91 with the 3.0 liter. I just changed the filter and it ran fine after that.......