2003 Chrysler Town and Country puts an error code of P0700...?

[ebaybuffy]

Recently our van has put out an error code P0700. I realize this is pointing to the transmission and the TCM (transmission control module). I don't have access to a TCM scanner, nor do I know a business that has one.

What could cause this kind of problem? The only other code is the P1684 (battery disconnect because of replaced alternator). The van seem to hesitate and feels jerky when coming from a dead start (kind of like it is going to die from running rich). It also jerks (just one shake) when coming to a stop. These don't happen on every take-off and stop and it is a soft jerk when stopping, nothing violent.

One thing that it ALWAYS does though: The speedometer will read about 17-20mph at a stop while in gear and the brake is on. If i'm in park it will still read zero, but as soon as it is in gear with the brake on and in a full stop it reads the 17-20mph.

Please help, we are supposed to be going on a 700 mile trip for Christmas.

Thanks

 

[helpful bob]

Due to how sensitive Dodge transmission control system is and how the transmission fluid has special chemical additives that also greatly affect the pressure switches and solenoid system and therefore affect the whole transmission shifting etc operations I'd start with changing the transmission fluid and filter.

See the transmission system could be struggling or putting out the wrong voltages and therefore causing that error code all due to dirt or a clogged filter or worn out transmission fluids.This can also cause the pressure to change and that can cause the speedo to be off.Other causes could be the transmission control module=TCM or the TCM's programming is messing up or even a bad ground could cause that error code.

Here is a excellent site to help you understand just how complexed and confusing or misleading Dodge transmission repairs or problems etc can be. http://www.allpar.com/fix/trans.html

Keep in mind that since you disconnected the battery to replace the alternator you could of thrown the programming off and the TCM could be trying to relearn.Note if the speedo problem and code p0700 occurred after changing the alternator I highly suspect that the TCM is trying to relearn.It can take the TCM 350 miles or so to relearn but the best way for it to properly relearn is for the TCM to be put into the learning mode either by the dealership or transmission shop etc.

I believe the other problem with the shaking etc is coming from maybe a dirty air filter or dirty fuel filter or bec the engine needs a tune up or a bad PCV valve, a vac line or vac hose has a crack or is loose, also a slightly loose alternator belt can cause such issue, so check it especially since you've changed it recently.

Anyways the most important thing here to keep in mind is that there are many misdiagnoses when it comes to electronically controlled transmission systems especially Dodges.So start with the transmission fluid and filter change especially if you've not changed it within the last 46,000 miles or 3-5 yrs or so.Remember that the engine could be jerking etc due to the transmission control circuit and it's sensors getting the wrong pressure etc readings all due to the TCM either relearning or worn out transmission fluid chemicals or worn transmission fluid or dirt inside the transmission fluid, also due to these sensors relaying on pressure readings etc the speedo could be acting up too.



Hope that helps and best of luck.By the way when you get the transmission fluid and filter changed have the TCM put into the learning mode.You might require a new or used TCM but remember U pick auto wreckers are fair priced for that part especially if you call around and you're removing it yourself.


Here's a great site that offers a variety of information involving the in and outs of Dodge transmission system errors etc...........http://www.allpar.com/fix/trans.html