Problem Reports

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.

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.

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»

While driving through deep or blowing snow/water, moisture may enter the rear brake drums, causing rust to develop on the rear brake drum and shoe friction surfaces. Over time, repeated (and sometimes infrequent) exposure to the snow can lead to temporary freezing of the rear brake linings to the drums. A revised brake drum and brake drum backing plate is available.

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.

Oil may seep from between the oil filter bracket and the cylinder block. Polishing the mating surfaces between the bracket and the cylinder block (to remove rough machining marks) will fix the problem.

Spilling beverages around the cup holder may cause the lid to stick or bind. To fix the problem, remove and wash the cup holder with dishwashing soap and water and apply lubricant to the sliding mechanism.

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.

 

A loose timing chain on early models will produce a rattle (in the front of the engine) because the chain hits the guide. The timing chain should be replaced (the cam sprocket should always be replaced at the same time). Remove and discard the timing chain guide; on later V6 models, the guide has been eliminated.

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.