Misc. Electrical problems --> Computer?

Tiny
CONTRAZZ
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  • DODGE CARAVAN
96 Dodge Caravan. 3.3L engine. 140K-miles. I have a flock of intermittent electrical oddities that lead me to wonder whether they are not largely computer-related.

The wipers (which are really the main question) are erratic in any of the intermittent speeds and might park improperly or fail to shut off in any speed setting. Much worse in cold weather. Occasionally continue to run even after I've gotten out and locked the door. Swapping a different relay to the wiper position in the control box didn't help. Wiper switch has been replaced without helping. Front washer motor recently quit. Rear washer still works, as does rear wiper.

4-Way Flashers occasionally fail to shut off, or shut off without restoring turn signals.

The first shift after starting, the transmission occasionally fails to engage any forward gear, then finally lurches into gear. This has been happening for 5+ years. Fluid level is correct, though the tranny does leak these days.

Occasional hot blasts from the climate control system that seem to correct with a few swipes of the temp control. Two of the intermittent speeds of the heating/AC fan have stopped working. (My inadequate Chilton manual gives me no clue whether these are controlled by the computer.)

I confess I haven't looked at the Mitchell manuals available here on line yet.

Thanks in advance.
Tuesday, July 3rd, 2007 AT 1:19 AM

2 Replies

Tiny
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I made a donation to this site because the site seems like a good idea. I've even thought about joining the club - I have 10 years of experience as a mechanic - though all back in the 70's. A lot has changed.

As I stated above - I donated because I thought it was a good idea. I didn't think of it as buying an answer.
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Thursday, July 12th, 2007 AT 10:21 PM
Tiny
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I gathered that these body control modules have lots of issues. I'm passing this info along here just in case it turns out to be helpful to someone else.

After some research, the wiper problems are all indeed issues within this module. The module apparently has a poor track record. The fix will cost over $800. For wipers, mostly. Quite a stunning cost for windshield wiper repair. I can only hope that someone, somewhere at Chrysler, has the decency to be embarrassed.
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Friday, July 27th, 2007 AT 12:53 PM

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