shuts off completely when I'm driving?

2003 DODGE CARAVAN
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THREERG
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
my dodge caravan shuts off completely when I'm driving, but if I give it alittle time it'll start up again then shut down after a few more miles. What could be the problem?
Dec 27, 2010 at 5:30 PM
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SQM
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello,

This sounds like you have an issue with the crank position sensor.
With all the heat and vibration from the engine the crank sensor can lose its internal calibration. This can trigger the sensor to send incorrect data to the ECM. Then the ECM can shut down the engine. It can do that regardless of if the vehicle is moving or at stationary.
The crank sensor is located on the rear of the engine (see diagram below).

Here are few helpful articles:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-crank-shaft-angle-sensor-works
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/crankshaft-angle-sensor-replacement

I attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
Sep 25, 2021 at 8:02 PM
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