'98 Grand Caravan will not start

[gerkinsr]

Looking for a bit of help??

Just purchase a used 98 Dodge Grand Caravan 3.0L-V6-SFI-SOHC and cannot seem to keep it running. The van will fire and "run" for 2-3 seconds and cut-out. I have replaced the fuel pump, plugs, wires, and fuel filter.

After getting frustrated I decided to take the vehicle to the local Dodge Dealership were they informed me that the VIN "inside" of the ECM does not match the VIN of the vehicle. They stated they they could not do anything with the ECM, and I would have to purchase another (from them) inorder for them to correct the problem. In addition, they stated that the ECM may have "communicated" with the BCM and it may need to be reprogrammed or replaced. Does this sound like the truth? And if so, then purchasing an ECM from the local parts store will not work, either?

Thanks in advance.

[ronmar1]

The question is really if the ECM you have is for a 1998 w/ a 3.0 and tranny set up like yours? If so it won't matter about the VIN. If you buy a new one it's not going to have your VIN in it anyway. The VIN it's self has nothing to do with the programming. I've replaced "like" ECMs from the bone yard and never a problem. Just be sure it's from the same year with the same tranny and engine. On the third generation you don't even have to worry about power options, they're all programed the same with exception to engine and tranny.

Now if the VIN code that's programed into your current ECM indicates it is for a 98 (or other year model) with a 3.3 or other engine then you have a problem. If the unit you have is for a third generation (96 to 00 model) then your BCM should be fine. If it's for any other year you wouldn't be able to connect it up anyway. The connecters wouldn't match.

If a problem exists with a mismatch, I'd check the bone yard first. I buy them here for $35.00 each.

IMHO
Ron