I have a 99 Caravan Sport and tow a trailer every now and then just to move a fridge or get some materials for Lowes. Never towing more than 1000 lbs on mostly flat ground. Today, I was coming back from getting a fridge doing about 60 on an interstate. I noticed the van would not shift out of 3rd and I have a service engine light. I checked all fluids ok. No sign of overheating. It drives fine, no weird noise, no leaking fluids. I am assuming the trans fluid got hot and there is a sensor that stops the van from going into overdrive? I know this vehicle is not IDEAL for towing but it is in spec and should be fine. Any clues as to what happened? It was about 80º and I have not towed anything since the weather got warmer.

I do not have a cooler but should not need one with this weight. I do have 200k miles on this van, it runs strong,usually no problems. Could it be as simple as I need to change the trans fluid sooner than normal because I do tow? I tow about 2x-3x a month, never more than about 50 miles round trip. Weight is always 1000 lbs or less including trailer.

I was able to let it cool, drive in 3rd to the house. It shifted smoothly, no issues. I only drove it in 3rd because I am not sure if it will drive in D yet. I am assuming I can get in it in the morning and it will drive normally and the light will be out. Not sure of course.

 

pull the codes, I assume that yr u can do the 3 on off on off on ignition. I would start there and then see what it says. I suggest having the transmission fluid changed if you have not done it in the last 60miles or so just because you do tow. cooler will help keep the tranny in good condition aswell.