Safety Recalls and Tech Tips

[oyster_777]

My first post, hope it helps someone out.

Chrysler
CHRYSLER Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, Grand Caravan, Plymouth Voyager, Grand Voyager (1993-1999)

1993 models: antilock brake system warranty extended to 10 years/160,000 km for the pump and its motor, some parts are covered under a lifetime warranty. This also includes reimbursement for previous repairs.

Check for the spare tire under the vehicle; more than 100 people have reported having lost their spare tire (two injuries, but no fatalities). Chrysler refuses to acknowledge the weakness of their galvanized steel spare tire winch on 1984-92 models (apply grease to prevent corrosion). An improved stainless steel spare tire winch was introduced afterwards.

Up to 1995 models: be sure that the 2 rear bench seats are solidly mounted in order to reduce the risk of increased passenger injury or ejection from the bench during a serious accident. With age, the cable that engages the bench mount can stretch, giving the impression that the bench is securely in place even if it is not. The driver side mount is more vulnerable to this problem.

Transmission failure: adjustment policy left to the discretion of the dealer covers parts and labour for 7 years/115,000 km. Between 115,000 and 160,000 km, only the parts are covered, but if you are the first owner of the vehicle and you have proof of maintenance at a dealer, parts and labour might both be covered.

In order to extend the life of your transmission, have an expert read the engine computer trouble codes; the trouble codes should be erased and the electronic circuit failures corrected. This annual preventative maintenance costs between $25 and $40.

If the evaporator of the air conditioning system has to be repaired, install a copper condenser from an after-market supplier. It requires a bit more time to install than the original part but is more durable.

1996–2000 models: rust perforation in the front strut towers (especially on the left side) in the area of the upper strut anchorage seems to stem from insu~cient rust protection and the use of thin steel in this area. Apply rustproofing on both upper and lower inner strut surfaces.

1996–1999 models: frequent differential failures. Demand for the differential housing is so strong that parts recyclers cannot provide enough used housings. Add $650 to the repair if you require a replacement differential housing. If the crack in the differential housing is small (maximum 5 cm, about 2 inches long), it can be welded.

Four-speed transmission: burnt-smelling gray and/or black transmission fluid may indicate an upcoming failure. In case of doubt, have an expert with the proper diagnostic tool read the engine computer before you buy the vehicle. If necessary, correct the trouble codes and any defective electronic circuits. Avoid driving with a weak battery or a defective charging system, as this can damage the transmission; its computer system needs a stable power supply to ensure that the right signals are received by the transmission solenoids.

1996-2000 models : Reduced or insufficient heater core output at idle and low speeds in cold weather may be caused by a partial blockage of the heater core. One solution is to clean out the heater core with a professional strength cleaner, without removing it from the vehicle.

[snakeonee1]

GREAT Post....anything for 1992 with 3 speed auto