Engine will not start?

WESERVEFIRST

MEMBER
2003 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
87,000 MILES

For the first time the van was hard to start. There was a fast ticking rotating sound when I try to start the engine. After I tried a couple of times it finally started. I used the van for about a 45 minute drive. After parking for an hour. I tried opening with the remote but the remote wasn't working. I opened the van manually and started the engine. The engine started instantly, no problem starting the engine but I noticed that the instrument panel was still dead. The fan of the AC was blowing but no AC. The stereo was okay but the lights on the instrumental panelas well as the gauges are all dead. None of the needle pointers (gas, temp, rpm) was working. The power windows was working but not the power door locks. I drove the car back for another 45 minutes. Now, i'm trying to start it and the engine won't start. Feels like it wants to crank but it just won't go all the way. There is no continuous ticking as it would on a started. Anyway, is this common, any idea? I can't move the van or bring it to a shop.

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

There are few possible reasons why you could have no start.
Check the power distribution relay under the hood.
First check for any corrosion or burnt pin on the plug
You can also test the relay as-well.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Other possibility is that the ignition switch could started to malfunction.
As when you turn the key it does not make any noise, it it a good chance that the ignition switch is malfunctioning. That's why you are not getting power to the gauges.

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you

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