QuestionQUESTION: Hi. I apologize if this is a repeat. I have a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan that starts and idles fine (~800 rpm). It accelerates fine up to 2800 rpm but sputters and runs extremely rough as soon as I hit the 2800 rpm mark (all done while in park). It then sputters and bounces between 2800 rpm and 3000 rpm but will not go any higher. The engine light came on with it but I don't have a code reader (sorry). Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Brad
ANSWER: Hi Brad,
Try turning the ignition key 'on-off-on-off-on and leave on' doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see if the mileage reading changes to show any 4-digit numbers preceded by a P. Let me know the fault code numbers and we'll go from there. A free code readout is also usually available at an Autozone parts store.
Roland
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QUESTION: Thanks for the tip Roland! Two codes came up: P0016 and P0335.
ANSWER: Hi Brad,
The codes point to the crankshaft position sensor's signal being imperfect (0335) on its own and as a result its signal is inconsistent with the signal from the camshaft position sensor signal (0016). The crank sensor is located on the side of the engine closer to the firewall (but I need to know which engine you have to be sure) and it is something you could replace yourself. The fact that the engine is running at low/moderate rpms suggests it isn't a wiring issue but that could also explain the problem if it isn't the function of the sensor or its placement close to the flexplate which it 'senses' may be slightly off. My inclination would be to replace the sensor rather than doing all the electrical circuit testing. Let me know the engine (L) and I can give you any tips you need to try replacing/repositioning it yourself.
Roland
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QUESTION: Thanks again Roland! it's got a 3.3L V6. Any tips would be great.
AnswerHi Brad,
The sensor is located on the rear side of the transmission as I said, at the joint between the engine and the transmission, right above the differential housing. It is best accessed from underneath so lift and support the front of the vehicle. It has an electrical connector (lift tab to release) and a bolt that holds it in place. The new one comes with a paper spacer and you put it in so that the spacer touches the metal surface of the flex plate which it 'senses' and hold there while you tighten the retaining bolt. The spacer has the purpose of positioning the tip very close to but not in contact with the metal, so the paper wears away leaving the proper spacing. You could try using a new spacer on the old sensor if it might just be out of position.
That should solve the behavior you are having based on those codes. If not, then the three wires that are involved would need to be verified between the sensor and engine control module plug.
Roland
PS Thanks for the rating and nomination
