Electrical System problems - 2003 Durango

[Jaycee29]

I have a 2003 Durango with 107k miles, and twice the needle on the electrical system gauge in the instrument panel has shot over to the High side. This happened yesterday and once two months ago. The immediate solution to the problem is simply pulling over, and once I'm back below around 25-30 mph it goes back to normal and then stays at normal (like I said, last time it happened was 2 months ago).

Two other problems that might or might not be related is that the A/C is no longer cold (noticed this about 2-3 months ago) but the blower works - except the blower will not activate on the lowest setting (turn it to the 2nd setting and it begins operating at the speed it should for that setting). The problem with the blower setting started about 6 months ago.

I have never replaced the battery, so let me know if you think it might be that. I had planned on getting one at some point over the next year anyway, since I hear you should every 7-8 years.

Thanks so much for any help I can get.

[98SableGS]

The second problem sounds like a blower motor resistor. This will be on the passengers side under the dash. Do not have to remove dash. Look from the floor up. This was the same thing that happened to my 2002 Durango and my friends 2004 Dodge truck. Both cases it was just the blower resistor. You can buy an AC system charge kit at autozone for your AC. Also they sell cans with dye so you can find your leak.

[ctwright]

Your first problem may be your voltage regulator.

[Jaycee29]

Thanks 98SableGS & ctwright for your replies. I'll definitely check into all that.

As for the "AC system charging kit", would that be the same as a "Freon Charging Kit" like these at Autozone?

Also, I've researched the voltage regulator, and discovered that I must replace the entire Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to replace the voltage regulator. I've found some instructions for doing this here, but now I must find a place to obtain a new PCM as well as a "scan tool" to program the new PCM with the VIN & mileage. Any suggestions there?

[98SableGS]

Hello,

Yes we are talking about the same thing as far as AC recharge kit. I've not heard of the other problem, good luck with that.