1997 Dodge Caravan

1997 DODGE CARAVAN
18,500 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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PAT CORKRAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The key will start the engine but it will only run for about 3 seconds and then dies, even when I am accelerating with the gas pedal. After 30+ tries I noticed that when I turn the key on there were no indications from my dash of the key being turned on. Normally I would be able to see my gas gauge respond and my odometer reading display. These are all blank. But yet the engine will turn over and start.

Fuse?
Nov 10, 2009 at 2:22 AM
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MATHIASO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,209 POSTS
it may be more than one problem.
first, is there engine light, or code?
After more than 30 tries, the battery might be drain.
checvk your battery, load test it.
the problem might be a weak fuel pump.
try to listen to the pump when crancking( buzzing from the fuel tank through the filer neck)
it could also be a dirty fuel filter.
check those and come back to me.
Nov 10, 2009 at 5:02 AM
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PAT CORKRAN
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Unfortunately, when I returned home in the evening, the car started right up. It had something to do with the dash electronics not coming on. I believe it must have been a stuck/sticky relay. When the dash electronics worked so did starting the car.

It shouldn't have been the battery because the starter was cranking strongly each time. It shouldn't have been the fuel injector UNLESS it is somehow connected to the dash electronics circuit. It is doubtful that it was a fuel filter because the car turned off at the exact same time no matter whether it was being run at idle or being revved up.
Nov 12, 2009 at 2:50 PM
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MATHIASO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,209 POSTS
the problem might be in the ignition switch. because when the key is in "on position" you should see the instrument panel self test(gauge light on) you said that the car start even when it is blank, so I think the problem is in the switch.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_ignition_swith_1.jpg

Nov 12, 2009 at 10:42 PM
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