bump, still could use some help

 

My 2003 dodge caravan would not start after driving about 1/2 hour. I stopped for coffee and when got back in to start it started I switched gears and it stalled. I tried to start again switched gears then it started but only for 2 sec. No clicking, no cranking sound just would not start but battery functions were great. Spent 2 days with a mechanic who could not resolve so sent to Dodge. After a day of putting wires back and checking out the problem they said it was the computer. Said that it was bad and could be replaced at no charge due to malfunction. Yes, it worked fine afterwards no more problems. They also said that some of the computers are found to be defective like this one so I hope this helps you in the right choice to have the dealer check it out if you are unable to get a computer reading and there is no obvious short in the system. Free sounded very good but as you know there is no such thing as really free as they got me for other things $350 worth. ouch!

 

Thanks Nblapaz. I guess I have to yank out the PCM, then call the dealership on Monday & see what they charge to test my PCM.

 

My caravan is a 2003 and the warranty is over but because the PCM was defective there was no charge for the PCM at the dealer that was with the labor to take it out and put it back in, too. You may want to have the vehicle towed to them? At least give the dealer a call and see what they can do for you. Good Luck

 

Well, I called the service depts of several local Dodge dealerships.

They told me that I would have to bring my truck in since according to them:

"there is no way that they can test the PCM unless it's in the vehicle"

I told them that what they said is a bunch of BS & that I don't do business with people that flat out lie.

 

IDK. There may be truth to that. The equipment that use would just interface with the truck and not simulate the truck, its harnesses, connector, power supply and whatever else.

 

They lied it's as simple as that.

You don't have have to bring in the truck in order to test/repair/replace PCM's:

http://www.autocomputerexchange.com/Home


There are plenty of other links like the above that I've found.

 

I understand what you are saying and all Im saying is maybe they dont have the same equipment as other companies who specialize in PCMs/ECUs. As much as I hate dealerships (trust me I have plenty of reasons) Im just trying to think outside of the box and give the benefit of the doubt.

In the end, what are you going to do?

 

Well, I'm not going to make any hasty decision.

According to several Dodge dealership parts dept's that I spoke today:

It will cost $559 + tax for just the PCM

It's $125 for the core charge which is waived when I bring in my old one.

Then it's $120 to program the PCM

Oh yeah, their PCM is a Reman with a 1 year warranty.

Basically it's $850+ if I get it thru the dealership

 

I was not excited about taking my van in to the dealer but this time I should of. It would of been no charge to me if I did but instead I took it to a mechanic who tore everything apart and could not fix the problem. He did not charge me anything for his two days but left wires dangling. The wires dangling cost me $200 at the dealer to replace and the PCM free as it was defective including the labor. So, if you are not having any luck yourself and you feel it is the PCM you would be ahead to tow it there and at least have them check it out. Good Luck