08 Grand Caravan SXT with 4.0 motor. has been in shop for multiple reprogram issues. now for the past 2-3 months, starting has beed a problem. upone turning key to start, you can hear the starter or solenoid mometarily and then nothing. if key left in on position, get electronic throttle control and engine light on dash. sometimes it starts right up but other times it may be 20 attempts before it starts. have changed the starter twice this week. after the first change, the issue remained. went to dealer and after 8 hours, they finally were able to replicate the issue and stated that it was the starter. again, i changed the starter (geniune Mopar remanufactured; can't find new anywhere) ane the issue has reappeared. dealer wants another diagnostic fee to check it again. i really don't think it is the starter. any help is greatfully appreciated.

 

One of our employee's has an '08 van and pretty much the same story. I think we've put 2 starters it that too. Weird. Wonder if it could be a ground issue.

 

TSB 08-003-08 dated 1 Feb 08 deals with hard starting caused by the MyGIG radio creating a parasitic drain on the battery. The fix is to replace the radio. You can check for this by turning the van off, waiting 45 seconds then look for the radio backlighting flashing.

 

I would check the big ground wire at the back of the transmission. That is also the ground for the starter.

 

I would say it is the WIN module if starter, battery, and connection checks out good. our WIN module are known for doing weird intermintent no start or die outs.
I don't remember if 08 Minivan has starter Relay, if it does, try swapping it out with other relays like Horns or A/C stuff.

 

Will check ground this weekend. If that doesn't correct the problem will probably look into WIN module. Would the WIN be covered by lifetime powertrain warranty? If not, how much am I looking at spending?

 

As I recall, there is a starter solenoid and a start/run relay under the hood.

 

The WIN module itself cost around $65-$120, depends on the options of ur vehicle. Such as powersliding door, remote start, etc...

installation wise, I am going to say u be looking at $100-$200, depends on the dealership rate in ur area. Where I work, you are probably looking at $250-$300 out of the door.

 

Solenoid is built into the starter. Starter relay is in the fuse box (IPM). If the starter solenoid is clicking the starter relay is most likely good.

 

Ground at the back of trans slightly corroded, cleaned with wire brush and reinstalled. I realize that the solenoid is built in but in the IPM, there are relays labeled starter solenoid, start/run, PCM, etc. I will see what happens with the grounds being cleaned and will check back as needed. Thank you for the help so far.