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[5th Gen : 08+]: Transmission won't shift when pulling a trailer

Old Oct 15, 2024 | 11:25 AM
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Rob Cote
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Default Transmission won't shift when pulling a trailer

Good day, Everyone,

I changed the transmission fluid and filter in my 2014 Grand Caravan (180,000 kms) yesterday, as well as flushed the cooler and cooler lines. I refilled it with 6 litres of Mobil ATF+4. I took it for a test run right after I was done and was running fine. Later in the afternoon, I hooked up my empty utility trailer (8' 5" x 4' 3", single axle, 450lbs empty weight) with 4 of us in the van and went on the freeway. After having to slow down for bumper to bumper trafic due to construction, and once cleared of the traffic, it would not shift out of 3rd gear. I got it off the freeway, checked the fluid level and it was fine. Turned off the ignition, restarted it and it was fine. Got to destination, left to go back home with an extra 150 lbs in the trailer, after 10 minutes of driving ok, stopped at a light to get back on the freeway, and the samething happened and then the check engine light came on. Pulled over, turned off, then started back and made it home without incident. The code was P038B, Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor.

Before I changed the fluid, I never had an issue!

In doing some Googling, there are some issues with aftermarket ATF+4 fluids when under stress and suggested to use Mopar ATF+4 fluid.

Of note, it was about 40° F, 4°C yesterday when it happened.

Has anyone else had this issue?
 

Last edited by Rob Cote; Oct 15, 2024 at 11:44 AM.
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Old Oct 22, 2024 | 12:44 AM
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master tech
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Transmission went into limp mode, It could be the O-ring on the filter not sealed the valve body pressure sensor.
 
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