Dodge Caravan Turn Signals and Gauges Dead

DODGE CARAVAN
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ANNJON73
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One day turn signals, hazard lights and all gauges on dash stopped working. I hooked it up to an OBDll scan tool, and can see that everything is working except no one can see them work! When trying to get any codes, the scan tool then says cannot communicate. This is driving me crazy! I am up for inspection next month. I checked all the fuses under the hood. I just replaced the BCM, but now found out only the dealership can reprogram this. I have a bad feeling this is not going to help fix my problems. Any ideas at all?
Thanks!
Ann
Jan 21, 2007 at 1:56 PM
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CARUNDELL
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Hey Ann,

I took a peek at the wiring diagram and it seems there is an "intelligent power module" located on the left side of the engine compartment. This may be an issue. some questions.what prompted you to change the BCM? Was it new or used? did you do any testing on the multi-function switch on the column? Is your scan tool capable of interfacing with the BCM (ie: bidirectional? meaning you can command the BCM to do certain output controls) for outputs? Let me know and we will go from there.

Chris
Jan 22, 2007 at 1:38 AM
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ANNJON73
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Hi, I replaced the BCM in hopes that that was the problem. It is a used one, and did not cost squat. I got lucky! Just got back from a Dodge Dealership, and this is what is says on the paper they gave me:


CK for codes 9 codes in BCM/ tried to relearn
Run test found no communication from cluster
Need further Diag/ need to pull out instrument
cluster and CK power/ possible cluster failure

Guess I should start looking at the instrument cluster huh?
Thanks!
Ann
Jan 22, 2007 at 11:33 AM
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CARUNDELL
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Ann,
Sounds like a plan. Let us know.

Chris
Jan 22, 2007 at 11:50 AM
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ANNJON73
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Just put in an instrument cluster. No change at all, will I need to have the dealership reprogram to see if this works now, where I had changed the BCM before? I am running out of ideas and time!
Thanks
Ann
Feb 10, 2007 at 5:11 AM
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CARUNDELL
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Ann,

Ouch, was afraid of that. time to go deeper! Do you have a multi-meter? (or at least a test light?) would strongly recommend the basics first. powers and grounds! Let me know if you need a diagram and/or procedures.

Chris
Feb 10, 2007 at 5:24 AM
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ANNJON73
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Thank you Chris! Where the heck should I start testing? I do have the Chilton book.
Feb 11, 2007 at 12:22 AM
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CARUNDELL
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Hey Ann,
Start by looking at the wiring diagram for the BCM and I/P, locate the power and ground wires and test each one. Let me know if you need a more detailed diagram.

Chris
Feb 11, 2007 at 1:07 AM
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ANNJON73
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chris,
I would appreciate detailed wiring scymatics, and your thoughts on trouble shooting procedures. Today, we went through fuses and relay box. Checked for corosion on wiring harnesses, appear to be in good shape, and wrapped.
Thanks,
Ann
Feb 18, 2007 at 7:04 AM
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CARUNDELL
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Very welcome. Let me know if I can help more!

Chris
Feb 19, 2007 at 10:02 AM
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SCOT WENTWORTH
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Hi Chris, I have the same problem but my mechanic replaced the blinker switch , the gauges cluster , I do not know what it is called but that flat box the wiring harnesses plug into. replaced the fuse box in the engine compartment, but he checked it with the meter so when ignition key is on the fuse does not light up, but it will if the key is turned off ? So do think this is the harness is the problem ? Going broke here ! Lol thank you for your time.
Jun 26, 2017 at 4:20 AM
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DAN EVENS
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I had this problem and it turned out to be a wire had come loose from the positive battery terminal. Aside from the obvious large cable on the positive side there was also a small wire that plugged into a small connector coming off of the positive terminal. It had worked loose from the small connector. As soon as I reconnected it the instrument cluster and turn signals all worked as they should.
Apr 26, 2018 at 10:21 PM
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STRAILER
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Great addition to this thread! Please feel free to help out whenever you are on the site. :)

Cheers, Ken
Apr 27, 2018 at 2:03 AM

Suggested Repair

Replacing the BCM and instrument cluster did not restore the signals or gauges. Check the small wire and connector at the positive battery terminal, which one owner found loose and which restored the cluster and turn signals. Also test power and ground at the BCM and instrument panel before further parts replacement.

Conversation Summary

A Dodge Caravan lost turn signals, hazards, and dashboard gauges, and a scan tool could not communicate. The owner replaced a used BCM and later the instrument cluster with no change. The dealer found no cluster communication and suggested further diagnosis. An expert advised checking power and ground circuits at the BCM and instrument panel. Another owner reported the same symptoms were caused by a loose small wire at the positive battery terminal, and that report was welcomed as a useful addition.

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