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2019 Grand Caravan SXT - Hard Start & Occasional Stalling, No CEL

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James R. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT

Hello everyone,

I'm looking for some advice regarding my 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT, which has the 3.6L V6 engine. Lately, I've been experiencing issues with it starting. It cranks for a few seconds longer than usual before finally firing up, especially after it's been sitting for a while. Sometimes, it feels like it's struggling to get fuel.

On a couple of occasions, it has even stalled out completely at low speeds, like when pulling into a parking spot or waiting at a drive-thru. There's no check engine light on, which is making it harder to diagnose. The van has about 60,000 miles on it.

Could this be a fuel pump issue, or something else related to the fuel system? Has anyone with a Grand Caravan or similar Pentastar engine experienced these symptoms without a CEL? Any suggestions on what to check would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Hard starting and occasional stalling in your 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT (3.6L V6), especially without a Check Engine Light (CEL), often points to issues within the fuel delivery system or sometimes the ignition system. The symptoms you describe are classic for insufficient fuel pressure.

Common Causes:

  1. Failing Fuel Pump: A weak or failing fuel pump is a prime suspect. It may not be able to build or maintain adequate fuel pressure, leading to hard starts (especially after sitting, as pressure bleeds off) and stalling under low load.
  2. Clogged Fuel Filter: While many modern vehicles have lifetime fuel filters integrated into the pump, if yours is serviceable and clogged, it restricts fuel flow.
  3. Fuel Pressure Regulator: If the regulator isn't maintaining proper pressure, the engine can run lean, causing starting and stalling issues. This is often part of the fuel pump assembly.
  4. Dirty Fuel Injectors: Clogged injectors can lead to poor fuel atomization and an inconsistent air/fuel mixture, causing rough idle, hard starts, and stalling.
  5. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) or Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): While these usually trigger a CEL (P0335 for CKP, P0340 for CMP), a failing sensor could cause intermittent starting or stalling issues before fully failing.
  6. Ignition System (Spark Plugs/Coils): Worn spark plugs or weak ignition coils can contribute to hard starting and stalling, especially if the engine isn't getting a strong spark.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Fuel Pressure Test: This is the most crucial step. A mechanic can connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail and monitor pressure during cranking, at idle, and under load. Look for low pressure or pressure that drops off quickly after the engine is shut off.
  2. Listen for Fuel Pump: When you turn the key to the 'ON' position (before starting), you should hear a faint hum from the rear of the vehicle as the fuel pump primes. If it's weak or absent, it's a strong indicator.
  3. Scan for Pending Codes: Even without a CEL, a professional scan tool might reveal pending or historical codes in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that could point to an issue.
  4. Inspect Spark Plugs: If the fuel system checks out, inspect the spark plugs for wear or fouling.

When to See a Shop:

Given the potential for a failing fuel pump or other critical fuel system components, it's highly recommended to take your Grand Caravan to a qualified mechanic. Diagnosing fuel pressure issues requires specialized tools and expertise. Driving with a failing fuel pump can leave you stranded and potentially cause further damage to the engine if it consistently runs too lean. A professional can accurately diagnose the problem and replace the necessary components safely.

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