2001 V6 3.3L .. Loss of Power

Hi
I own this 2001 Dodge Caravan . Engine is 3.3L V6 .
I have maintained it well with Oil change every 3000 miles and recommeneded factory services.

I have noticed recently that when I start driving the pick up is fine. As it gains speed, if I continue to push gas, it starts making noise. After it gains some speed it runs ok.

If I have to stop in traffic on incline , I have to switch to lower gear for it to move forward, as it does not go forward on 'Drive' gear even if you push gas.

Please suggest what can be done.

Regards

Sounds fuel related. Recommend you try pouring in a can of fuel injector cleaner at your next fill up. If that doesn't change anything change the fuel filter and have the injectors flushed. Are you getting a check engine light? If so go to an Autozone and have them download the fail codes. It's free.

When you say it won't go forward on an incline untill you shift gears do you mean the engine stalls or you press on the gas and the engine revs up but you don't move. If the later is the case forget the fuel filter and flush. Change the transmission fluid and filter.

Thanks RIP for your reply.

Last week I got Oil Changed with BG MOA and also got induction service done with BG products. The guy did not mention any issues with Transmission luid.

Here is what happens. If I stop on an incline and then push gas, the van moves forward for few yards. If I continue to press gas, I could hear spluttering noise. If I press the gas pedal slightly then there is no noise but van then moves very slowly (like 5mph) and ultimately is able to climbs the incline.

Also I noticed that when the van is cold, it works fine. It is only after running for 20 minutes or so, the noise on incline issue is seesn.

Any thoughts?

These kind of noise and hesitation issues can be tough to describe in a forum like this. My best advice to you is to have someone knowledgeable sit in or better yet, drive your van and determine if it's engine or transmission related. Hands on experience with the problem is priceless in the troubleshooting process.

Many power loss issues are fuel, timing, and ignition system related. A possible slipping transmission can cloud the issue. Unless you're absolutely convinced the transmission isn't the problem I would have another set of eyes look at it. Making the wrong move can cost big bucks and get you nowhere. Whatever you decide, come on back and we'll try to help.