2001 Caravan 'Banged', now won't go into gear

If you like the Caravan and the body is in good condition — provided the engine is, too — why go out and spend another $20,000-plus, when a $3,400 investment in a rebuilt transaxle will more than likely cure the problem.

What I suspect has happened to your Caravan’s tranny is this: the torque converter has blown out. A blow-out like that would account for the bang you heard and the fact that your vehicle can only move a few feet now and then hangs up.

Since the transmission fluid level is okay, at least you can be assured that things like input and output shaft seals are in good shape. And, since the vehicle is trying to move when you shift it into gear, it is more than likely that the clutches/bands, gears, valve body, solenoids and sensors are in reasonable shape. However, since the minivan won’t move, it points to the torque converter.

Please keep me in the loop about this. I like hearing from you.

I wish there was a visible way to check it out, but, the torque converter is located in the transmission housing. This means the the shop will have to drop the wheels and front end so they can get to the transmission and open it up. Once they are inside, your technician will be able to look things over faily quickly. This isn’t an inexpensive chore, either, as it will likely set you back around $1,400. Still, it is lots less expensive than paying for a new vehicle.