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Chrysler Town and Country EX/LX/LXi/Limited
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- Rain or damp roadway
- Stop and go traffic
- Temperature not high enough to require the engine cooling fans (just behind the radiator) to be on all the time
The moisture will turn to steam when it hits the hot engine and can bellow out the front end when the vehicle is standing still. Since there is nothing wrong with the vehicle, they did not want the driver to become unduly concerned and therefore the fans are turned on to blow whatever steam is created under the vehicle. The fans are controlled by a solid state relay that allows the fan speed to be varied. At slower speeds, the fan noise is high enough that I thought the compressor was on.
If this is not what you’re seeing, could you provide more information. Model year of your T & C. What leads you to believe the compressor is always on? And, any other information you deem important.
As to the A/C symbol - it is illuminated when the A/C has been selected with the A/C button. Pushing the button will turn off the A/C and the symbol should turn off.
Thanks very much for the info. I am happy to see employees from DC monitoring this board and getting questions answered that not the average (Or even above average) dealer could answer!!
My hobby is Car Electronics. Im facinated by Data Aqc ETC. I swear--the main reason I opted for the Limited T+C is because of the MUCH COOLER trip computer. (EVIC)
I even bought a programmable OBDII scan tool.
Im hoping you can help me further----Im looking for the commands it takes to aquire the Enhanced Powertrain Data over the OBDII interface. I know its not something the average person would care about, so I doubt its in the service manual.
Would you have any Idea how I could obtain this data? I know I could buy an EXPENSIVE scan tool and reverse engineer, but I would like to avoid that expense (Since its only for my purpose)
THANKS for any information you can provide. If you would like to take this off line, I can provide some contact info for you (For me)
Anything you could do would be MUCH APPRECIATED!!
SIncerely
Gerald Vahe
When the CC is in auto mode I have yet to see the AC symbol NOT be illuminated. Granted, the lowest outside temperature I've seen in that time is probably 55F, but even by adjusting the temperature for all three zones to the highest position I can't get the AC button to stop illuminating.
Why I believe the compressor is on. I could be wrong, but first, at the end of the trip I see water under the car consistent with condensation from the AC. Second, except when the temp is set to the highest setting some of the vents feel like at least part of the air output is AC (AC air not only cools but also dehumidifies).
Any thoughts? Given that we're in July this is not a pressing issue.
My 2k1 Limted does the same. I do notice the compressor cycling. The compressor clutch is VERY QUIET so maybe you just dont notice its cycling.
Also--Ive had about 4 cars now with Auto Climate control, and they all behaved the same way. The AC is ON when in Auto Mode, but the computer determines if the compressor is needed.
Hope this helps, but I wouldnt worry. It sounds completely normal.
-gerry
My '01 T&C LTD has the button to toggle between total and trip distance on the instrument panel odometer. But there is no reset button for trip distance as in my previous GC. Is it because this function is available on the overhead console/trip computer? Is this normal? Just curious...
I too posted a message about a couple of months ago re: AC symbol and compreesor cycling as described by cgaydos. Thanks to gvahe too for the explanation. Guess I shouldn't worry?
Also, this is the first vehicle I've seen without factory-installed battery terminal covers. All the '01 vans at my dealer didn't have these. Wonder how much is DC trying to save...
Thanks a lot again!
Yet, your replies raise another question: why did everyone replying have michelins while I have goodyears? Maybe its just that I have an LX.
Anybody gotten and installed the rear spoiler?
Anything special that I should monitor these first 30 days? I've looked at the manual and it basically says "don't gun the engine from standstill and don't slam on the brakes for 3000 miles". This is fine.
But, what about any oil additives or higher/lower octane gas in the first 1000 miles? Just wondering.
No 2100 rpm resonance that I note. No roof rack howl that I notice.
I do feel very very very slight vibration in the engine/trans at around 1800 rpm though. But, nothing that I'd write home about.
Oh, mine was manufactured in April, so even though I just bought it two days ago with 13 miles (mileage from when I picked it up for the test drive) I'm having to call in to the 1.800.853.1403 number to check on recall info.
Thanks,
D
2 questions:
1). The dealer seatswap: Is that only something considered on the LTD? I actually came out and asked a dealer about it when I was looking and he said they couldn't do it (new) because of soem legal VIN number configuration thing.
2. Speculation on cost of obtaining a post-purchase Quad or split bench? Where would one be found if possible?
Thanks,
D
Also, looking under the hood today, I too saw that sticker mentioning not 2 but 3 engines on the vehicle (adding the 3.5). I would think that D-C will go ahead and do that engine in 2002. It sounds as if they were very close.
And, for those without leather but with seat covers: where'd you get them and at what cost? I think they'll come in handy witht he children.
Thanks, again,
D
Does yours have battery terminal covers?
Cheers!
For '01, there definitely is a trim line issue. Different trim lines have different seats so you couldn't, for example, swap a Ltd full bend for an LXi split bench.
2. Speculation on cost? $800+?
That power lift gate sounds like it would come in handy too.
Steve
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My wife is about 5' even. We testdrove both the Windstar (With Adjustable pedals) and the T+C Limited.
Even with the adjustable pedals in the WindStar, my wife says she feels MUCH MORE comfortable driving the T+C. (Thats what we bought!)
She still sits a good distance away from the AirBag.
So far---its been a pleasure to drive! (Except for the Gas Mileage!!)
-gerry
shortlady25 - my wife is 5'1" and has no difficulty in our T&C LXi. She's more comfortable and can reach the controls more easily than in her last ride (an '98 Isuzu Rodeo which is smaller inside). I'd also recommend the power liftgate. For the best seating possibilities, you probably want to pick a trim level that includes the power drivers seat as its much easier to position the seat and has wider range of possibilities than a non-power seat.
dsoiam - the tires are probably due to trim level. My LXi has the touring package and the 29U which is probably why we have the Michelins.
No need to run higher octane than required. If you feel like paying for premium fuel, it won't hurt. You also shouldn't add any additives to the fuel or oil. Most of the additives recommended by the dealer are just that, recommended by the dealer.
More than likely, the 3.5 liter motor is dead forever (unless sales really pick up).
As dwgutwir reports, premium fuel is not required. The extensive use of sensors on today's engines allow the use of lower octane fuels. I frequently fill up my 2001 T&C with 86 octane and get an average MPG of over 20 with no degradation of performance.
By no means do I want to alter ANY data. I only want to View Data. There is a whole bunch of data such as: (Which are all read only)
Would there be any way to get some data on how to get this?
Total Fuel Used Gallons
Total Idle Fuel Used Gallons
Total Idle Time Hours
Trip Complete Flag
Trip Fuel Used Gallons
Trip Idle Fuel Used Gallons
Trip Idle Time Hours
Can I ask how much they cost? And, how much did you pay for the spoiler (chrysler catologue says $270)? And, how much for each install?
Did you look at the spoiler? Would it have been easy enough to install yourself if you had wanted to? I installed a spoiler in my previous car pretty easily (I took my time and was careful not to mess up anything). I'm thinking of buying a spoiler and trying my hand at it. I really think it would enhance the van.
Thanks, again,
D
Also, in looking back over messages, I see that not many people mention buying an LX. Most people writing here (if not all) have LTDs or LXis. Maybe the LX buyer either aren't as excited or their excitment is calmed by all the vocal upscale buyers.
I also see that most seem to be leasers (affording more van per dollar) versus me buying outright, which speaks to me buying a lowly LX.
Anyway, I really like my lowly LX. A nice van is a nice van regardless of trim. I was looking at structure, features for the money, and fit and finish. You can't beat the T&C for those. I thought about the Honda, but one day, I looked in one parked beside me and was kind of disappointed with simply how it looked from inside.
And, I had to aim at keeping my costs down because . . . . . .
I'll probably be buying another van next year.
Not that I am just fascinated by vans, but really, I do like this van. And, I do have to get rid of another car. And, I do need child space. And, I like the ride better than SUVs. So, why not jus have two vans?
So, I went for the LX. May go for something else next spring.
Anyway, thanks all,
D
If not, does anyone remember when the 2001's came out?
For myself, after owning a van with cloth seats for 8 years, there was absolutely no way I was going to get a new van with cloth seats again. Leather may be considered an upgrade by some, but for my lifestyle it's far more practical than cloth. Plus, it seems that of the 4 dealerships I visited, they were way more overstocked in Limiteds, and willing to deal. I got mine for $2000 below invoice,and the 1.9% financing. I'm happy.
LX vs LXi vs LTD: We didn't really need the power and comfort options of the higher trim levels, and instead opted for an AWD LX. Bigger engine, AWD, and 4-wheel disk brakes were where we wanted to put the money not climate control and gadgetry. AWD comes with one power door and split rear seats; the model on the lot also had the upgraded sound system, a floor console, roof rack, and side airbags. We find that the kids play with the darn power door like a toy, it can be annoying, and there are few moments when the power feature is actually a real advantage over manual. Just as soon have manual doors, thanks. I do "like" the gadgets and power features of the higher trim packages, but with a limit on what we could spend, we wanted the AWD features instead.
I use the power lift gate more than I ever thought I would. Last week when it quit working I relized just how much I used it! When I took it in they said that it had a kremped wire. Works great now. :-)
Just wanted to let you know that you can look into the EX and not just the LX, LXI and Limited.
My biggest gripe is that I should have sprung for power seats (at least driver's seat). My Jeep cherokee has this and I take it for granted. Lesson learned for next time.
We really do like our LX however, and, given good reliability over the next bunch of years/miles, will replace it with another one.
By the way my 2001 T&C was manufacturered in August of 2000. This might be an indication for those looking for 2002's.
I currently own a 1999 LTD and drove a 2001 last week and like the quiet and comfort of the ride. I especially like the auto climate control which was not available on the previous years.
1. Optional In-Dash DVD Player
2. Power Adjustable Pedals (Memory driver's seat, mirrors, radio presets, and pedals on Limited)
3. Low Tire Pressure Light
4. New color- Almond Pearl
Basically a carry-over year with the only real addition being power adjustable (memory on LTD) pedals.
Pete
pgs_28, or anyone else who may have this.....
I saw in another forum where you say that you "have a problem with an air noise . . . . at the driver-side door in the upper left corner? "
pgs_28, I saw where the dealer replaced some trim that helped this. How much did it get rid of it? And, are you sure it was the front door and not the sliding door on that side?
I also have some amount of outside road noise coming through what seems to be the top/rear of the driver's side door. I had read your message and was just prepared to settle with it. But, yesterday I rode on the passenger's side and heard even more noise coming through. Have you rode over there in your vehicle and did you hear road noise there too?
Really, some of this noise that we're all noticing is simply because the rest of the van is so quiet. So, if the interior of the van is real quiet, little outside noises coming in are more pronounced.
But, I am thinking of mentioning this to the dealer and maybe he could replace some trim and have a positive effect on it for me too.
Anyway, its a very nice van. Its like a gift to drive it.
D
Has anyone purchased an extended warranty in the aftermarket? Is it worth it? Generally, I am not a fan of extended warranties, but given my increasing concerns over the long term reliability of the vehicle (and the nasty stories I hear that sooner or later - most likely sooner -the tranny will fail), I'm giving strong consideration to purchasing one. Thoughts anyone?
I notice that floor mats cost more for the LTD. I know that the front ones have a "Limited" logo. But, are all the mats (front, middle, rear) in the LTD larger than mats in the LX or LXi? I read that the LTD mats are made of more hefty material. But, I'm wondering if they are larger, covering more area.
And, do the non-front mats in the LTD have the logo? It doesn't seem like it from what I read; but, I want to be sure.
The mats in the LX and LXi seem to be a little scimpy, and if the LTD mats are larger/wider, that would really be nice.
Thanks.
Every thing checks out on the computer, and I sometimes get SOME cool air. I think the blend air doors are not working correctly. Anyone else seen this
Signed,
Sweating in CT
"We are currently updating our incentive information and it is not available on-line at this time. Please contact your local dealer to determine if you are eligible for any incentives on the vehicle of your choice."
Looks like the new rebates are being revised and won't be generally published immediately, but in the interim the dealers have been given a set of temporary rebates. These are probably the rebates published in the SF Chronical.
Why? Only speculation, but I'll bet that the unexpectly high DC minivan sales in June (56k for non-cargo minivans, vs. 44k in June 2000) have caused DC to modify their planned post-July 3 rebate program. DC will almost certainly offer attractive minivan tebates, but they may not be as high as DC was anticipating.
To Enfuego1 ... the value of the financing options vs. rebates varies depending on the amount financed. The more you finance, the better the finance option. Sounds like you are right at the equilibrium where the options generate the same payment.
So: TAKE THE HIGHER REBATE. There always is a chance you will terminate the finance agreement before the loan ends (sell the car, car is stolen, car is totaled, pay off car loan as part of a mortgage refinance, etc.). If that happens you definitely will benefit from having had a lower starting principle.
cgaydos - who would pay off a 0.9% loan with a mortgage refinance that at best will be at a rate of 6 to 7% (not to mention paid over 15 to 30 years)?? Even with tax deduction for mortgage interest it doesn't make sense.
thanks,
Pete