1998 dodge caravan drives only in 1 forward gear

[tjaart]

the van runs well in reverse and 1 forward gear idling and speedometer read ok it will not change gears even when put into 1st and 2nd back to drive will not change gears van has 205000km on clock

[littlebitofinsanit]

your in limp mode scan and repair very common

[tempfixit]

Originally Posted by littlebitofinsanit

your in limp mode scan and repair very common

When was the transmission oil and filter changed? Use ATF+4 fluid only, available at Wal-Mart for About $4.00 Qt. DO NOT recommend going to a quick lube chain store for transmission flush, this can cause more problems and they normally DO NOT install proper fluid> THere fluid is a universal fluid, then they add a attative that supposedly makes it like the ATF+4 but does not. Improper fluid can and will cause internal damage.

Check all sensor connections on the transmission for moisture, corrision or loose, broken wires.

Consider replacing input and output sensors, there are only about $16.00 a piece.

Like littlebitofinsanit said get the transmission scanned with a capable scanner. Post any tranny codes and someone help.

Changing fluid and filter should be the first step if it has not been serviced of late.

Also do the key dance for codes, Ignition switch om/off, on/off, on within 5 seconds without starting engine, any codes will be displayed in the odometer.

Do a search in this forum using limp mode and you should get a number of threads about this problem.

[wafrederick]

Most auto parts stores sell the fluid too and I know Carquest is one that does.Chck the condition of the fluid also,if it smells and looks bad,has to come out for a rebuild.Another thing,the 4 speed automatics including the 3 speed automatics are known for spitting out the spider gear pin ruining the case.There is an additive that changes dextron III into the Mopar ATF+4,Lubegard in the black bottle.I know a transmission shop that does it this way and no comebacks yet.You can not retrieve codes with the key on and off on an OBD II vehicle anymore.When OBD II was created,they said this was a huge NO.

[tempfixit]

Originally Posted by wafrederick

Most auto parts stores sell the fluid too and I know Carquest is one that does.Chck the condition of the fluid also,if it smells and looks bad,has to come out for a rebuild.Another thing,the 4 speed automatics including the 3 speed automatics are known for spitting out the spider gear pin ruining the case.There is an additive that changes dextron III into the Mopar ATF+4,Lubegard in the black bottle.I know a transmission shop that does it this way and no comebacks yet.You can not retrieve codes with the key on and off on an OBD II vehicle anymore.When OBD II was created,they said this was a huge NO.

I have personally retrieved codes on a 2001 Intrepid by key dance this past summer so I would believe that it can also be done on a Caravan.

[tjaart]

Thanks to all,
managed to read the codes, read P041 P0700* P0700 and P0760,
cleared them all, took it around the block, and now have only P0760.

What exactly is a shift solenoid "C"? Can I fix it myself?

[tempfixit]

Here is a link with a picture of the shift solenoid pack:

http://www.autozone.com/N,11200623//...eResultSet.htm

It is NOT recommended to disassemble the solenoid pack itself but you can get a new pack and install yuorself. It is located just under the transmission fluid cooler line from the tranny to radiator. Before you purchase a new solenoid pack double check the wiring connector that goes into top of solenoid for any moisture, oil or corroded terminal. Also check for any leakage of tranny oil where the solenoid is inserted into tranny. The code P0760 refers to selenoid "C" does NOT mean solenoid is faulty, it gives to direction has to which area to diagnose to find and fix problem. Try a search using solenoid pack or limp mode and you will find many threads pertaining to this problem which can give you some insight as to fix.

If and when has the fluid and filter been service??? ATF+4 fluid only.
How many miles on vehicle and tranny??
Which engine??

Go to top of page and go to the service manual, this has lots of info but not perfect.

Here is a link with a picture of tranny and competent locations: Look for the solenoid assembly:

http://www.robskorner.org/faqs/Trans/a604trans33.html

[Rawtorque]

Check here for some ideas:

http://www.trnw.net/tour-fixdata1.php#1

While Code 41 is gone, the TCM & EATX are the next pace to check if it's not the solenoid pack.

[tjaart]

thank you for your advise i checked the web site and had partr ordered and fixed run like an dream again once again thank you very much