Auto >> AutoSPT >  >> Auto Repair

How do you reset the auto shutoff relay on a 1996 dodge caravan?

There's no single "auto shutoff relay" in a 1996 Dodge Caravan that you reset in the way you might reset a circuit breaker. The term is too vague. A shutoff could be caused by many things. To help you, we need to know *what* is shutting off. Is it:

* The engine? This could be due to a variety of issues, from a faulty crankshaft position sensor to a fuel pump problem, or even a security system. There's no relay you simply reset. You need diagnostics.

* A specific electrical component? Like the headlights, radio, power windows? Then you need to identify which fuse or relay is responsible for that circuit. These are typically located in the fuse box (usually under the hood and/or inside the dashboard). Consult your owner's manual for the fuse box diagram.

* The fuel pump (resulting in engine shutoff)? Again, there is no reset. You need to find the issue.

* Something else entirely? Please specify what is shutting off.

To troubleshoot, you'll need:

* Your owner's manual: This will have diagrams of the fuse boxes and relay locations.

* A multimeter (optional but helpful): To test fuses and circuits.

General troubleshooting steps (if the engine is cutting out):

1. Check the obvious: Low fuel? Dead battery?

2. Check fuses: Look for blown fuses in the fuse box.

3. Check relays: Visually inspect relays for damage. You can usually swap relays (of the same amperage rating) to see if the problem moves with the relay. Again, your owner's manual will show you which relays control what.

4. Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs): A scan tool (available at auto parts stores) can read codes stored by the car's computer, pointing to the source of the problem.

Without knowing *what* is shutting off, it's impossible to give you specific instructions on how to "reset" anything. Provide more detail about the problem, and I'll do my best to help further.