Dodge Repair: P1768 pending relay always off stuck open, dodge grand caravan, grand caravan

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I have a 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan with the 3.8 engine. Have not had any noticeable problems but Service Engine Soon light is on and OBD code scan says P1768pend relay always off/stuck open. Can you tell me where the relay is? thank you.

ANSWER: Hi Bill,
I am not sure what the 'pend' means, but the code is about the transmission control relay located in the power box in the engine compartment, 3rd from the rear. That relay is what powers the transmission solenoid/pressure switch pack and causes the transmission to shift through the gears under electronic control by the trans control module. If the relay doesn't close when the ignition switch is turned 'on' then the transmission will only run in 2nd gear and reverse. The main reason it doesn't close under most circumstances is when the tcm detects a problem which bodes ill for the internals of the transmission so it opens the relay to minimize the use of anything but 2nd gear. This is called limp-in mode.
If your 1768 code is correct, then the trans will be in that mode though it may be simply the case that the relay is no longer working.
You could, if indeed you are in 'limp-mode', buy a replacement relay for it. That would be a low-cost 'fix' for the situation. If you are in limp-mode for another reason, then there should be a code other than 1768 stored in the tcm memory.
Please 'rate' my answer (see below).
Thanks,
Roland


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply. I believe the pend means a problem is pending. It is not in limp mode yet, shifts normally.  No other codes were stored in tcm memory. The third relay from the rear says it is the EATX shutdown so I presume I should try a new or known working relay.

Answer
You could replace the relay or switch with one of the other identical relays to see if any problems appear in the engine operation (ASD or fuel pump) but that may not be prudent. You have an understanding now of what might be the cause of the inset of limp-mode without any other transmission-related codes showing up.
Please 'rate' my answer. Thanks