2002 Dodge Caravan

FIO1022

MEMBER
2002 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
86,000 MILES

The heat in my 02 caravan does not not come on gradually. It will go from cold to hot only when engine reaches full temperature.
Is this normal or is there a flakey temperature switch?

Saturday, April 17th, 2010 AT 8:41 AM

3 Replies

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

If you were to put a scanner on it you might see a code related to the engine taking too long to reach full operating temperature. Try putting a new thermostat in and see if it helps. If it happens again you may be seeing the beginnings of a head gasket problem, you'll know this because you'll be adding coolant all the time. A little bit. And see no signs of any leaks. Ok thanks

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Saturday, April 17th, 2010 AT 9:45 AM

FIO1022

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for replying.
No codes. Engine doesn't take very long to warm up. Problem is no gradual heating, it just goes from cold to hot. Like a switch.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Saturday, April 17th, 2010 AT 12:56 PM

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

Hi, it is quite different then the older blend doors that used a cable and lever. In 2002 models it is an electric motor. So it may be out of calibration and not opening properly. The dealer has a DRBIII diagnostic tool that plugs in and re-calibrates everthing, mode, recirc, blend, and control resistors. If it seems different then any other newer model after 99, it may be out of calibration. OK It would probably cost quite a bit. Its an all electrinic system. Good luck, anytime.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Saturday, April 17th, 2010 AT 3:57 PM