Will not start

Hi,

Reconfirm the fuse didn't blow again. There are two fuses in question. Pic 1 below shows the two I need checked. In addition to checking the fuse, make sure there is power to the socket.

Next is the starter relay. If there is another in the box that has the same part number, switch them and see if that makes a difference. (I will provide a relay test in case there isn't another one with the same number).

Last, if the fuses are good, the relay is good, the battery is good, and all connections are clean and tight, check for power to the yellow/grey wire going to the starter solenoid (the smaller wire). It should have 12v when the key is in the start position.

Here are a few links you may find helpful when testing:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-fuse-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

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Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi Joe. Checked the fuse. It didn't blow. Another thing I forgot to add. You know the gear selector lights on the dash that lights up when you put it in whatever gear? Well, all of them are lit when I turn the key on. Does that help? Thanks.

Hi,

Yes, that indicates to me there is a problem with what is called the transmission range sensor. The range sensor tells the computer what gear to select for the transmission. It also works like the old neutral safety switches. (pics 2, 3, and 4 show different angles of location and pin connector)

If you look at pic 1, it shows the location on the transmission. Make sure it is tight and not damaged or corroded. Now, to check it requires a scanner with the ability to read transmission codes. Not any scanner will do it. If you look at the last pic, it indicates the
state based on gear. (See pic 5)

If you determine it needs replaced, the valve body in the transmission needs removed to access it. Here are the directions for removal and replacement.

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2007 Dodge or Ram Truck Grand Caravan V6-3.8L VIN L
Removal
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Transmission Position Sensor/Switch Service and Repair Removal and Replacement 40TE Automatic Transaxle Transmission Range Sensor Removal
REMOVAL
REMOVAL


pic 6

Figure 1 Remove Transmission Range Sensor



pic 7


1. Remove valve body assembly from transaxle.
2. Remove Transmission Range Sensor retaining screw (3) (Figure 1) and remove sensor (1) from valve body.
3. Remove TRS (1) from manual shaft.


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Install is the reverse of removal.

Let me know.

Joe

Thank you. I will check it out.

You'r very welcome. Let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe

Okay, update: I checked the transmission relay. It was good, but possibly loose. It still won't start, but the gear selector lights are back to normal. I guess I'll have to start checking voltages.

Hi Brian. I hope all is well. As far as the van, check to see if there is power to the smaller wire on the starter when the key is in the start position. You will need a helper. Here is a link that will help. There is a chance you got a bad starter.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let me know what you find.

Joe

I don't know if I mentioned it before, but when I turn the key, there is a clicking that comes from around the fuse block that's under the hood. Does that tell you anything? Thanks.

That is most likely the starter relay. Normally, you wouldn't be heard when the starter engages.

Since you do hear that, we need to see if power is making it to the smaller wire on the starter when the key is in the start position. Brian, if there is power to it, remove the starter and have it bench tested at a parts store. If you do have power to that wire and the big wire has 12v, the starter is bad.

Let me know if you need help or have other questions.

Joe

The starter relay in the fuse block is brand new. I will look at the starter over the weekend. Thanks.

The clicking indicates it's working. That is what leads me to checking for power at the starter. I will watch for your reply.

Take care,
Joe