2003 Dodge Caravan problem

[Milton]

My son drives a 2003 Caravan that is not charging the battery.The van was checked and he was told the computer contains the voltage regulator and he needs a new computer.Can he buy a pre-programmed computer that he can then use to simply replace the old one to fix the problem?

 

[7shooter]

Try Googling the problem. They had a number of ideas none of which I understood but maybe you will. Good luck.

 

[ACORN]

We used to sell them and ordered them from a rebuilder that programmed for us. Depending on the application you may need to furnish make model mileage and VIN. Don’t try to buy used because they are programmed to that specific vehicle.
I believe you are correct in that the regulator is in the computer.
I’d have the alternator bench tested too

 

[Milton]

He had the alternator tested and the battery tested,both looked good.I just wanted to make sure he could purchase a unit programmed so it would essentially be a "plug and play' setup.

 

[TX-Dennis]

I'm pretty sure they are available. I looked into one for a 2007 Ford Edge a few years back. The poorly designed ignition coils had shorted out the engine computer, and it needed replacing. Dealer wanted nearly three thousand to replace it and all six coils. I found an outfit that would supply a "rebuilt" unit and they would program it specifically for your vehicle before shipment. The unit along with six new coils was around a thousand if I remember correctly.

In the end after weighing the pluses and minuses of do-it-yourself rebuilt v. dealer installed new unit. I went with the dealer. I figured there was too much other electronic "stuff" that I could screw up since I really didn't know what I was doing.

 

[Kanewpadle]

I manage a local locksmith company that does more automotive work than anyone in the region. I don’t get out much anymore so I going from memory.

The computers are VIN number specific. You cannot get a used one unless it has been reprogrammed to your vehicle VIN number. They are sold on line. A replacement computer must be reflashed (erased) and programmed to your vehicle.

Your key has a transponder chip. That too will have to be programmed into the replacement computer. Inquire about that before you buy.

On some vehicles we can reflash (erase) a used computer and program it to your vehicle. On some we can’t. Call your local locksmith and ask questions.

I’ve done it many times but it’s been a while. But I know our diagnostic equipment capable on certain year and models.

If you’re not in a hurry, I can look at a reference book Monday morning and let you know.

 

[Milton]

I would appreciate that very much!!! Thank you!

 

[Kanewpadle]

I would appreciate that very much!!! Thank you!

Stopped by my store today.

A used Engine Control Module (computer)can be programmed to your vehicle. Find a local locksmith that has the equipment necessary to do so. And a chip key was an option for that year. If your key has a grey plastic top, it has a chip.

Good luck.

 

[Milton]

Thank you very much!! His key has a thin black plastic top.

 

[LVSteve]

Who was the brain donor that put the main system regulator in the engine computer? A regulator for the computer alone I can understand. Car electrical systems became simpler when they put the alternator regulator on the back of the unit. These days they've got complicated again as the manufacturers manage the charging so much to squeeze another 0.1 mpg for CAFE numbers.

 

[Milton]

You guys have a suggestion of where to order one of units on the web?

 

[Kanewpadle]

Found this one. Call first and describe your problem to make you’re getting the correct part. Most vehicles today have multiple computers or controllers.
2003 03 Dodge Grand Caravan ECM PCM Engine Control Module on Sale for $349 (4 in Stock)

 

[Milton]

Thank you very much!!!!

 

[Milton]

Thank you again for your gracious help!I just ordered the unit for my son and hopefully he will have wheels soon.