Questions and Answers

Plymouth Voyager Starts And Dies Q. My Plymouth Voyager has about 40,000 miles on it. About 45 minutes into a trip with no problems, the van gave a jerk, as though bumped from behind. 30 seconds later it did it again. The jerks became more frequent, but subsided somewhat at lower speeds (35 mph?). We were able to pull over to the shoulder.

After a quick check with no obvious problems found, I tried to restart but it would only crank with no start. A helpful soul stopped a jiggled a module mounted on the right front wheel well. It actually started! However, with a tow truck on the way, and a nervous family, I had it towed to a nearby Chrysler dealership.

History: I recently replaced a leaking battery (a month ago). Using baking soda and water, I cleaned up what I could reach.

The dealership said that the crank position sensor needed to be replaced. However, once replaced, the van would start but would not stay running. Their monitors said that the PCM needed to be replaced. However, even with a new PCM, the van still will not stay running, and the monitors STILL say the PCM needs to be replaced.

1. Could the replacement PCM have been bad?
2. Could both the crank position sensor AND the PCM be bad at the same time?
3. Is there something else that could be wrong that would make it SEEM like the PCM needs to be replaced?

Your wisdom is much appreciated.
Phil

A. Unfortunately the answer to all three questions is Yes. Because of the leaking battery, and the proximity of the wiring harness and Power Distribution Center to the battery, I would be looking for damage there. Battery acid will eat through almost anything over time and could very well be the cause of your problem.