Automatic Lock Feature

[GC1999]

I bought a 1999 Grand Caravan ES and was surprised to find that the doors didn't automatically lock. Went to a Dodge Shop and they told me it might not have been an option, now I wonder, is this feature truly optional since I do have power doors and they should be controlled by the same computer that controls the automatic lock feature, or am I wrong about that ? Any help is greatly appreciated...

Also, while on the topic, are remotes optional as well since I did not receive any and again they told me that their records show nothing with regards to having this option....Hope these questions haven't been asked too many times...

[Mrbizness1]

I can't speak for the remotes, usually keyless entry systems are options, but I believe the auto locking feature is standard on vehcles with power locks. I rented many Chrysler vehicles that had power locks and they all had the auto lock feature.
The auto lock feature can be disabled, check your owners manual

[GC1999]

Originally Posted by Mrbizness1

The auto lock feature can be disabled, check your owners manual

Wish I had a manual although I don't want it disabled but rather work. They told me in the shop that it might be an option the vehicle didn't come with. If anybody here has an idea how to enable the feature or what I need to tell them in the shop (preferably Service Codes or whatever Chrysler uses internally), that would be greatly appreciated.

[HeadlessHorseman]

Originally Posted by GC1999

I bought a 1999 Grand Caravan ES and was surprised to find that the doors didn't automatically lock. Went to a Dodge Shop and they told me it might not have been an option, now I wonder, is this feature truly optional since I do have power doors and they should be controlled by the same computer that controls the automatic lock feature, or am I wrong about that ? Any help is greatly appreciated...

Also, while on the topic, are remotes optional as well since I did not receive any and again they told me that their records show nothing with regards to having this option....Hope these questions haven't been asked too many times...

My '96 GC LE came with remote key entry and a feature that automatically locked the doors at 15mph. The door locks were defective and it took my dealer four attempts to fix the problem. Somewhere along the way, the auto-lock feature disappeared. I never bothered to get it fixed because it was out of warranty.

[Mrbizness1]

This is word for word from my 98 cvan owners manual

The doors will lock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if:
1 The transaxle is in gear
2 all doors are closed
3 the vehicle speed is above 16 mph

You can turn this option on and off by using the following procedure:

1 close all doors
2 Place the key in the ignition and turn the key between the off and on position for a total of 4 times ending in the off position (DO NOT START THE ENGINE).
3 Press the drivers side power door lock button to lock the doors.
4.You will hear a single chime when programming is completed

[GC1999]

Originally Posted by Mrbizness1

2 Place the key in the ignition and turn the key between the off and on position for a total of 4 times ending in the off position (DO NOT START THE ENGINE).

What is the on position ? I tried it turning the key each way (separate attempts) but I heard no chime after pressing the lock button...

Do the doors have to be locked/unlocked ?

Is there a way to access the car's configuration via the data port and change it instead of programming it with the key ? Anybody knows a manufacturer as I am getting desperate here and need this feature since not everywhere I go, I want to have to worry about locking doors...etc

[Mrbizness1]

Originally Posted by GC1999

What is the on position ? I tried it turning the key each way

The on position is just before the starter engages.

Turn on the radio, when you turn the key towards start and hear the radio you are in the on position.
Do not turn the key back to far to the accessory position.

[GC1999]

Tried it but it doesn't seem to work, I hear no chime...Bummer
Where do I go from here ? I really need this to work...Dodge Tech Support was a major help, telling me to look in the manual...grrrr

[Mrbizness1]

The door lock circuit is controlled by the body control module, before you take it to a dealer for big bucks check the fuses and relays in the power distribution center next to the battery.

[GC1999]

Originally Posted by Mrbizness1

The door lock circuit is controlled by the body control module, before you take it to a dealer for big bucks check the fuses and relays in the power distribution center next to the battery.

The fuses seem ok, not sure how to check the relays. Found the diagnostic steps (#820+) so now I can tell the dealer what to do since they seemed a bit clueless, yet trying to be nice saving me the $45 for a readout...ugh
By the way, can I perform the diagnostic steps without a DRB or is there a cheap alternative to it ?

[jase386]

just a thought, would the dealer be able to use your VIN# to see what options that vehicle came with?

[GC1999]

Originally Posted by jase386

just a thought, would the dealer be able to use your VIN# to see what options that vehicle came with?

Yes they did this and concluded it is not available. That's why I am wondering how this can be a true add-on since I have power locks that are controlled by a computer, the same computer that should lock them when the car is running 15+ Mph...Even if my theory is totally wrong and they have a little black box with a little man (or woman, not being sexist here...lol) in it that pushes the lock button when the vehicle reaches 15 Mph, my dealer still couldn't tell me what that part is nor could Chrysler customer support for that matter. The service manual does not mention a specific part and only suggests hooking up the DRB III to the computer and perform various tests.

In other words, I AM DESPERATE !!!

[Mrbizness1]

http://www.allpar.com/forums/index.php?&&CODE=00

http://forum.chryslerminivan.net/index.php?

These web sites have members with alot of van info give them a shot.