Dodge Repair: Dodge Grand Caravan 2007 6 DVD changer just blinks, dodge grand caravan, electrical reset

Question
Our Dodge Grand Caravan 2007 6 DVD changer got a penny stuck in it. I took it out, shook the penny out, but when i plugged it back in it didn't work. The changer started whirring, like the mechanism inside was moving around. The lights on the front panel were blinking. Then, three lights on one side and three lights on the other side started blinking alternately, from side to side. The front panel said "Error".

So, I purchased a replacement OEM changer second hand. The seller is reputable, so I am pretty sure it's in good shape. However, when I installed it, the same thing happened with the whirring, blinking lights, and "Error" message.

Have you ever seen this? Is something wrong with the base unit maybe? I thought it might be some kind of electrical reset needed, so I unplugged the battery. That didn't change anything when I plugged it back in.

Thanks so much

Dave

Answer
Hi Dave,
My suggestion would be to install the replacement changer. Then insert a known good CD. Then go to an Autozone parts store or similar nationwide parts store and ask for a free fault code readout. See if there are any stored fault codes in any of the digital devices' memories. If so ask them for the specific fault code numbers and then ask them to erase the codes. Then try the CD player again. If that doesn't correct it, then tell me the fault code number and we'll see what that says is wrong with the situation. If may well be that by putting in a known good unit and erasing the memory of the body computer that this will 'clear' the situation and allow the replacement CD unit to work. It may even cause the original unit to be available to re-use. It appears that with some of these components that once a fault is logged you have to use a diagnostic readout box to clear the codes and then if the problem is gone that will reset the situation back to normal. Let me know how this works out.
You could also try having the readout done at a Chrysler dealer but there will be a charge of some sort to do it but their Chrysler diagnostic readout box (DRB-III) may be what is necessary to reset the situation. Ask how much it will cost and if that a reasonable thing to try.
Roland