Problem Reports
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1996 Chrysler Town & Country
Noise in Front Suspension Due to Worn Sway Bar Bushings/End Links
Worn sway bar bushings or sway bar end links may cause a rattling or clunking noise from the front suspension during low-speed driving. Though not always the root cause, front struts are often replaced for this condition.
Key May Not Start Car or Release From Ignition
Intermittently, the key may not start the car or release from the ignition. If it is excessively worn, replace the key. If the new key doesn't work, replacing the lock cylinder including tumblers should correct this concern.
Odor from HVAC vents
Some vehicles may develop a musty odor coming from the HVAC system, Dodge has issued a cleaner/disinfectant and a coating for the evaporator designed to inhibit bacterial growth.
The Power Window Motor and/or Regulator May Fail
It is not uncommon or the power window motor and/or regulator to fail. In most cases the door panel will require removal to determine the exact failure.
Airbag Light Due to Failed Clockspring
Illuminated of the airbag warning light may be caused by a lost connection between the clockspring (behind the steering wheel) and the steering wheel-mounted electrical components. Other steering wheel-mounted controls like the horn, speed (cruise) control, or radio controls (if equipped) may be inoperative. There is a lifetime warranty on the clockspring as specified in a combination of recall campaigns. For more information on these recalls please us the following links; 1996-1998 models, please click here». For 1998-2000 models, please click here»
Transmission Problems on AWD Vehicles Due to Mismatched Tires
AWD equipped vehicles can show a wide range of transmission problems, often caused by using the wrong-sized and/or mismatched tires. Be sure that all the tires are the same and that all four are replaced at the same time. Dodge recommends tire rotation every 7,500 miles.
New Latch Assembly Can Solve Noisy Power Door Locks
If the door lock actuators (integrated into the door latch assembly) are noisy and/or not working, the latch should be replaced. For some model years, the actuator for the sliding door is available separately from the latch.
Issues Causing Delayed Transaxle Engagement
A delay in the transaxle engagement (greater than three seconds) may have multiple causes, including a defective pump, defective internal lip seals, valve body components, park-reverse-neutral-drive lever switch, and the output speed sensor. Proper diagnoses will be necessary to determine the exact cause.
Timing Cover Oil/Coolant Leaks are Common
Timing cover oil and coolant leaks are common, the oil and coolant don't normally mix. Our technicians recommend to replace the timing chain and cam sprocket if the timing cover is removed to reseal - or for any other reason.
Rear brake drum rust
Spilling sticky liquids around cup holder may cause lid to stick/break
Water Leak Onto the Passenger Side Floor
Hood misalignment, cowl cover misalignment, wiper module drain tube(s), and/or the lower plenum drain hose may cause the HVAC housing to leak water onto the passenger side floor. Diagnoses will be required to confirm the location of a water leak in the front passenger area.
Momentary Loss of Power Steering Due to Serpentine Belt Slipping
A momentary loss of power steering can occur when the AC or defroster is on during high humidity conditions. This is due to condensation from the evaporator draining onto the serpentine belt. To fix the problem, a spout on the AC evaporator drain and a new serpentine belt should be installed. Some vehicles may need a revised serpentine belt tensioner.
Erratic Operation of Front Windshield Wipers
A malfunctioning switch in the steering column can cause the front windshield wipers to self-activate or not turn off. A failed windshield switch will require replacement.
Wipers don't stop in proper position due to wiper parking circuit/motor problems
Problems with the wiper parking circuit or wiper motor can cause the windshield wipers not to stop in the proper position.
Unwanted ABS Activation
When braking during low speeds (under 10 MPH), the brake pedal may vibrate and the ABS hydraulic unit may cause a rumbling noise. This is caused by a momentary loss of the wheel speed signal to the ABS controller. Adjusting or replacing the wheel speed sensor will commonly fix this problem.
Rattle from rear wheels on AWD vehicles from barking brake actuators
Vent window actuator may separate at the ball and socket
Water leak from lift gate glass
Honk noise from power steering during low-speed parking maneuvers
Replace rear wiper module if wiper self-activates while driving
Auxillary heater hose connections may develop coolant leaks
Stalling or Low Engine Idle Speed Due to Dirty Throttle Body
A dirty throttle body may cause low engine idle speed or frequent stalling, as oily residue blocks air flow in the throttle when the throttle is closed. Throttle body cleaning may be necessary to correct this condition. Our technicians caution against spraying cleaner directly onto the throttle body as this may damage the throttle position sensor (TPS).
Loose timing chain may produce rattle when chain hits guide
Oil Leak From Valve Covers and/or Front Crankshaft Seal
On higher-mileage vehicles, engine oil leaks from the valve covers and front crankshaft seal are common.
Popping, Clunking, or Snapping Sound From Front of Vehicle
If you hear a popping, clunking, or snapping sound from the front of the vehicle after five miles of driving on smooth surfaces, the outer tie rod ends may be worn and require replacement.
Check Engine Light and Speedometer/Cruise Control Inop
A defective vehicle speed sensor can cause problems with the cruise control and speedometer operation, as well as erratic shifting. The connectors on the sensors are also susceptible to corrosion, which will create similar symptoms. Any of these problems can cause Check Engine Light illumination.
Intermittent cooling fan or AC operation due to bad ground
A bad ground on the left frame rail can cause intermittent operation of the radiator cooling fans or AC compressor.