1998 Dodge Caravan Reverse Grinds

1998 DODGE CARAVAN
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TMFRENDA
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
The service engine light is on. Sometimes all the dash lights go out when I start the van and other times they do not. My reverse does not work when I put it in sometimes it tries and makes a grinding noise and other times when I put it in reverse it does nothing. What is my courses of action. What code should I be looking for. DO I NEED A WHOLE NEW TRANNY OR COULD I TRY SOMETHING ELSE FIRST cause the minute I walk in a TRANNY SHOP THEY WILL TELL ME I NEED ONE.
Apr 13, 2006 at 11:41 PM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
If it does go into gear and is quiet it could (remote chance) the tranny computer but if it grinds it's the tranny for sure. I find that the independent shops are better than the franchised ones. Good luck
Apr 14, 2006 at 2:39 AM

Suggested Repair

If reverse grinds, the transmission itself is the likely failure and should be diagnosed by a shop. If it engages quietly, a transmission computer problem is only a remote possibility. An independent transmission shop is preferred over a franchise.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan reports a service engine light, intermittent dash lights, and reverse that sometimes grinds and sometimes does nothing. The expert says grinding indicates a transmission problem, while quiet engagement could remotely involve the transmission computer, and recommends an independent shop.

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