Hello again ☺️,
I had an auto parts store check for codes due to engine light on and white smoke from underneath the hood. One store code returned PO455 and the other parts store returned (after he was typing in,) P1797, P0571and P2181. I'm in central IL, where I've learned that I can't trust many of the shady mechanics. My question is for a 2009 Grand Caravan SXT Automatic Passenger/ Cargo stowaway with 124,457 mostly highway miles. Maintenanced timely. I'm a grandma, but I'm not asking for help in that area, just understanding 😇🤗 I do know my thermostat is top right when facing my van, if I need to change it, do I drain the radiator? I saw a YouTube mechanic do that and he unplugged three wires. Well, if you can, please share a link whereas Mr. Scotty is performing this change. I couldn't find one yet. *Replaced gas cap solved engine light issue. My van smokes when sitting for 2 minutes 🤔
I heard that smoking 🚬 is a hard habit to break. Quit that van!
Thank you 💖 very much.
For that P0571 code check if your brake lights are working. Check fuse M37 in your underhood fuse box.
If the fuse is good and the brake lights aren't working you may need to replace the brake light switch.
P0571 CODE DEFINITION:
Brake Switch "A" Circuit
6 POSSIBLE CAUSES
·
· Brake switch 1 or Brake switch 2 circuit is open
· Brake switch 1 signal circuit is shorted to ground
· Brake switch 2 signal circuit is shorted to voltage
· Brake switch power (12v) fused circuit is open
· Stop lamp switch has failed (mechanical failure - stuck off)
TOP REPORTED FIX:
· Replaced Brake Light Switch
Next, to the
P1797-MANUAL SHIFT OVERHEAT
The P1797 Code gets thrown when the engine temperature exceeds 255° F, or the transmission temperature exceeds 275° F while in AutoStick mode.
This is more tricky.
You say you saw "white smoke from underneath the hood".
1st, make sure your radiator is full and none of your hoses are leaking.
2nd, make sure your radiator cooling fan(s) is working.
3rd, grab a scanner and see what the ECT (engine coolant temperature) sensor is reading. When your van is "warmed up" it should stay between 195° F and 225° F.
If the ECT sensor is saying the engine temp is staying within that range then there's no reason to replace the thermostat.
If the ECT sensor is confirming the engine is overheating then replacing the thermostat may be the remedy.
Next, check your transmission fluid level on the dipstick (engine running). Low transmission fluid will cause the transmission to run hot. Make sure you aren't low on fluid.
Anything more than that and you'll need a scanner that can communicate with the TCM (transmission control module) to make sure that the Transmission Range Sensor is reporting the correct gear positions to the computer.
Hi @jack62,
I had everything checked or fulfilled that you suggested, but the P0455 codes still showing up. I will have a Mechanic check under my van for the Large Evaporator Leak P0455 indicator. Still smokes or steams when stopped at traffic light.
You've been very helpful. I would like one of the mechanics in this forum to come to me and help me. <personal info removed>. 🤗🌹 In the meantime I hope to get to Coultas in Danville to pull my own parts. 😉
Not a good idea to put your personal information on a forum with 25,000+ members. We only correspond through this forum via these threads: we don’t call, text, email anyone.
Ok, I asked Admin to delete it and I'll write a new one without personal info. Thanks
I think moderators can do that too.