2001 Dodge Caravan Dies and Radio Cuts Out

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PPARRIS2
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  • 3 POSTS
Two days ago: The radio and heater would turn off when you put it in reverse and sometimes while in drive. Shift into reverse - instant radio off - shift into any other gear it would work most of the time. There was no jerking or anything when shifting between gears. Checked all the fuses. All fine.

Today: All boxes are selected for all gears, Shift into reverse, radio and heater works. Drove less than a mile and it started dieing. It would start right back up, Then it seemed like it shifted into neutral all by itself High RPMs. Now its in my driveway. disconnected battery for 5 minutes. Same problems. When I put it in drive it takes a lot of gas pedal to move it a little like its in the wrong gear.. The speedometer isn't working.. I'm thinking speed sensor, but what would cause problems with the radio and heater?
Thank You
Feb 28, 2007 at 3:32 AM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Have the VSS and TCC solenoid check might solve the other 2 problems.
Feb 28, 2007 at 4:33 AM
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PPARRIS2
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Thank you for your reply. Which two problems?

Radio and Heater-this sounds like electrical problem-knock out the 1st one-then we'll get into the eletrical- Get Your Test lite/DVOM ready
Feb 28, 2007 at 5:19 AM
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PPARRIS2
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Also, someone mentioned maybe a bad ground somewhere. Have any suggestions on where to look?

Thank you very much for your time.

Dunno about this-but start at the battery/engine/firewall-there's alot that shares the common ground under the instrument panel.
Feb 28, 2007 at 5:25 AM

Suggested Repair

Check the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) and torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid first. Then test the radio and heater circuits with a test light or DVOM, starting with shared grounds at the battery, engine, firewall, and under the instrument panel.

Conversation Summary

A 2001 Dodge Caravan owner reported the radio and heater cutting out in reverse and sometimes in drive, followed by stalling, high RPM as if in neutral, weak drive engagement, and a nonworking speedometer. An expert suggested checking the VSS and TCC solenoid, then testing the electrical circuits and common grounds at the battery, engine, firewall, and under the instrument panel.

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