Question Hello again;
I didn't reply right away because the repair shop couldn't find a used computer (trying to save money) but then my van just started running again so I brought it home. I thought it may have reset the computer when they took it out to get the numbers off of it (that may have just been my goofy idea). But today it won't start again. To answer your question about the instrument cluster- the guages are not coming on like gas & temp. The light where it shows the gears is not on. The indicator lights on top like oil, check engine, door ajar etc. come on for a few seconds then go off, like usual. At first, when I turn the key it seems like the engine turns over once then the power just dies. That will happen a few times then nothing at all - no noise or anything. Usually I don't have to give it gas when I start it up. This time when it wasn't starting, I tried pumping the gas a little and that didn't help. I didn't flood it though. The shop did rule out the battery as the problem. I figure they probably would have checked the alternator too. I would appreciate your input before I purchase an expensive computer.
Thanks,
Kim
> Hello! An answer to your question:
>
> QUESTION: My van wouldn't start so my auto shop says I need a new
> computer. Do you think a refirbished one that is programed with updates
> will be satisfactory? I have also had problems with my door locks going up
> & down several times when I try to open it and it makes a loud noise each
> time. Will the new computer take care of that? Also the shop says my van
> is running now, do I really need a new computer?
> Thanks
>
> ANSWER: I have no idea what is really wrong with your van I have not
> looked at it myself I can only go by what U have told me and no one else.
> I doubt its a computer though why don't u describe to me in detail the
> no start to me stuff like if the instrument cluster works when it wont
> start things like that. the door lock issue could be an actuator or a key
> position switch locking it back again when u use the key.
>
> ---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
>
> QUESTION: When I tired the key in ignition, it sounded like it was
> starting but then died in a couple seconds. That happened a few times then
> nothing at all. No noise or anything. The dash & lights & radio worked
> still. I had the tow guy try to jump it and still nothing. This happened
> several months ago where it died the same way but then it started and was
> ok till now. It's still at the shop and they say it just started up again
> so now it's running but I don't want to get stranded somewhere. They are
> trying to find a used computer.
>
>
AnswerHi Kim,
Before going the computer replacement route I would suggest that you remove the instrument cluster and examine the connections between the multi-pin socket into which plug attaches and the electrical circuit board to which the socket is soldered. Each of the pins has a solder connection to the board and what often happens is that one of the solder joints 'opens' which causes a malfunction of the digital data sharing system called the 'bus'. That bus needs to be working to get the starter motor to turnover, and for the engine to run, etc. It is fairly common for such a 'cold' or open solder joint to occur on the instrument cluster panel this way. All you need to do is use a soldering pencil (from an electronics supply store) to reheat the solder on each of the 10 pins so as to make sure of the electrical connections being solid.
That is how I would attack the situation first. One short cut you might try is to rap on the top of the dash, directly above the cluster, as some owners have successfully jarred back a temporary reconnection that way to get the vehicle running again until the joints can be resoldered.
Let me know if you need the instructions for removing the cluster.
Roland
PS Use the 'thank/rate' tab to get back to me without having to wait for me to be 'available' to take a question. There is a space for comments to which I will reply. While you are there if you would enter a 'yes' under the item 'nomination?' I would appreciate that.
