2001 Caravan SE - Computer Module

SMN

MEMBER
2001 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
90,000 MILES

The rear wiper on our 2001 Caravan SE quit. Local mechanic said it was the compuer module. Tried to do us a favour by putting in a used computer module from a 2002 that they thought matched. Van started then stopped. Tried putting in original computer module. Same thing. Van won't stay running. Ordered new computer module from Chrysler with (supposedly) all correct programming. Still no go. Van now towed to Chrysler and they can't get it going so have sent back new computer modulel and reordered another.
What is going on and what can be done? Are we throwing good money after bad here?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,913 POSTS

First, the PCM doesn't run the rear wiper. Since they replaced the parts, does the wiper work? My guess is no. The problem now is dealing with the PCM just to get the engine running again. They never should have replaced the PCM with a different year, or one with a different part number. You need to make sure you get a new PCM with the same part number as the original one that was in the vehicle. WIthout being there, I would have to say that is what is causing it not to run. Make sure they are not ordering a new PCM based on the PCM that they used as a replacement.

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Thursday, April 21st, 2011 AT 6:23 PM

SMN

MEMBER
2 POSTS

This seems like such a distant memory now. The shop put in a used body control module and the wiper worked fine but when it was taken for a road test, the engine quit. They put the original (supposedly defective) body control module back in and the engine still would not start. Ordered a new body control module from Chrysler citing the VIN ensure correct programming. When installed the engine still would not start. It was then towed to the local Chrysler shop where then a new ECM was also put in to get the engine running. It runs now but it is not the same. Cranks more than before to start, especially on a warm restart. The garage tried to make it right by only charging for the parts - no labour charges. Still, I suspect that but for them getting into something over their heads, none of this would have happened. They aren't being overly forthcoming so I have to rely on supposition but I believe that by putting in the used and incorrect BCM, they fried the ECM and may have fried a few extra things.

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Thursday, April 21st, 2011 AT 11:48 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,913 POSTS

That is possible. If it is harder to start, for the heck of it, check the fuel pump pressure. There are directions on our home page under the DIY section. Also, when was the last tune up? As far as the any of the control modules, ecm, pcm, tcm, bcm. God there are so many, it has to be the correct one (same part number). It could even come out of the same year make and model and be different.

Check out what I suggested and let me know what you find.

Joe

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Friday, April 22nd, 2011 AT 4:29 AM