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2021 Grand Caravan - Transmission acting weird, sometimes limp mode

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Brittany E. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT

Hello Dodge forum,

I'm having some concerning issues with my 2021 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT, which has about 35,000 miles on it. Lately, the transmission has been acting really strange. It sometimes shifts harshly, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, and occasionally it feels like it's slipping.

Even more worrying, a couple of times it has gone into what I assume is 'limp mode' – the vehicle loses power, and I can't accelerate much past 30-40 mph. There's no Check Engine Light on, which is confusing. After I pull over, turn the car off, and restart it, it usually drives normally again for a while.

Has anyone experienced this with their Grand Caravan? What could be causing these intermittent transmission problems without a CEL? I'm worried about driving it like this.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Intermittent transmission issues, especially going into limp mode without a Check Engine Light, can be particularly frustrating on your 2021 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. While a CEL often points directly to a problem, its absence doesn't mean there isn't a fault; it just means the fault hasn't met the criteria to illuminate the light.

Here are common causes for these symptoms:

  1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: This is the first thing to check. Low fluid levels can cause slipping and harsh shifting. Contaminated or old fluid can also reduce lubrication and cooling, leading to performance issues. Even if the fluid looks okay, it might be degraded.
  2. Transmission Solenoid Pack Issues: The solenoid pack controls the flow of transmission fluid to engage different gears. A failing or intermittently sticking solenoid can cause harsh shifts, slipping, or prevent proper gear engagement, leading to limp mode.
  3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Glitch: The TCM is the computer that manages the transmission. An intermittent fault or software glitch in the TCM could cause erratic behavior. Sometimes a software update or reset can resolve this.
  4. Internal Transmission Wear: While less likely at 35,000 miles, internal wear or damage to clutches or bands could cause slipping and harsh shifts. This would typically be accompanied by burnt fluid smell or debris in the fluid.
  5. Sensor Issues: Input or output speed sensors, or the transmission fluid temperature sensor, can send incorrect data to the TCM, leading to incorrect shift points or limp mode activation.

When to see a shop:

  • Immediate Inspection: Given the intermittent limp mode, it's crucial to have this inspected by a qualified transmission specialist as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with these symptoms can lead to more severe and costly damage.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: A professional shop can connect to the vehicle's computer and check for pending or stored transmission-specific codes (even if the CEL isn't on). They can also monitor live data from transmission sensors.
  • Fluid and Filter Service: They will inspect the transmission fluid condition and level, and recommend a fluid and filter change if necessary. This is a good starting point for many transmission issues.
  • Component Testing: A technician can test the solenoid pack, speed sensors, and potentially the TCM to pinpoint the exact cause of the intermittent failures.
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