Problem Reports
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1998 Dodge Grand Caravan
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.
Power Windows May Stop Working
One or more power windows may stop working due to a failed window motor or regulator. In some cases these items are replaced as a set. If not, diagnoses will be required to determine which is at fault.
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.
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.
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»
Valve cover gaskets/cam plugs may leak oil
Rear brake drum rust
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.
Noisy or Failed 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.
Auxillary Heater Hose Connections May Develop Coolant Leaks
The auxiliary heater hose connections (that are routed to the rear heater under the vehicle) can develop coolant leaks.
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.
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.
Oil may seep from between oil filter bracket and cylinder block
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).
Spilling sticky liquids around cup holder may cause lid to stick/break
Oil Leak From Valve Covers and/or Front Crankshaft Seal
On higher-mileage vehicles, oil leaks at the valve covers and front crankshaft seal are common.
The Cruise Control and Speedometer May Fail Due to Speed Sensor Issues
Defective speed sensors on the transmission can cause problems with the cruise control and speedometer operation, as well as erratic shifting. The connectors on the sensors can corrode and/or the connector terminals can spread (poor connection), which will create similar symptoms. Any of these problems can cause Check Engine Light illumination.
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.
Loose timing chain may produce rattle when chain hits guide
Vent window actuator may separate at the ball and socket
Rattle from rear wheels on AWD vehicles from barking brake actuators
Water leak from lift gate glass
Honk noise from power steering during low-speed parking maneuvers
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.
Replace rear wiper module if wiper self-activates while driving
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.