How Replace a Speed Sensor in a 2000 Dodge Caravan
by Johnathan Cronk
The 2000 Caravan is a minivan manufactured and sold by Dodge. The 2000 model is available with a three-speed or four-speed automatic transmission. The transmission houses the vehicle speed sensor. The sensor monitors the speed at which the vehicle is traveling. This tells the transmission when to shift gears and also tells the engine computer the proper speed for the speedometer. It's important to replace a faulty vehicle speed sensor to ensure the transmission shifts properly and you always know the speed you are traveling.
Step 1
Park the Caravan on a level surface. Turn the engine off and allow ample time for components to cool completely. Engage the emergency brake to ensure the vehicle does not shift while performing maintenance.
Step 2
Jack the passenger side of the minivan up. Create enough space between the vehicle and the ground that you can easily maneuver underneath the van. Slide or crawl under the vehicle and look straight up on the passenger side. You will be looking at the transmission.
Step 3
Locate the vehicle speed sensor. The speed sensor is found on the right side of the transmission, in the front of the vehicle. The sensor is small component sticking out of the transmission with a wire connector coming out from it. The Caravan repair manual will have a detailed diagram, if needed.
Step 4
Disconnect the wire harness from the current speed sensor. Grasp the harness, push in the sides and pull straight off.
Step 5
Remove the 10mm bolt that secures the sensor in place. Use a socket wrench and turn the wrench counterclockwise until the bolt is removed. Place the bolt to the side for safe keeping.
Step 6
Grasp the sensor using a wrench and twist the sensor counterclockwise until the sensor is loose enough to be removed. Pull the sensor out with your fingers and discard.
Step 7
Align the replacement speed sensor into the sensor socket. Turn one full turn with your fingers to ensure the sensor is place. Continue to screw the sensor into place with the wrench. Replace the bolt to secure the sensor in place, tighten with the socket wrench. Reconnect the wire harness, align the harness and push into place.
References
Things You'll Need
- Wrench
- Socket wrench
- Replacement speed sensor
Writer Bio
Johnathan Cronk is a freelance writer and began writing at the age of 18. Throughout his career he has specialized in sports, how-to and advice articles. He has also written sales pitches in the corporate setting since 2001. He studied business at Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to the State University of New York, Albany.
