Is Your 1998 Minivan Running Rough?
If your 1998 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, or Plymouth Voyager is suffering from issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a very likely culprit. The ECM is the brain of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shift points. When it fails, it can cause a wide range of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose problems. Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable minivan off the road. This direct replacement ECM is the solution you need for a lasting repair.
The Plug-and-Play Solution for Your 1998 Town & Country Engine Computer
Replacing an ECM used to mean a costly trip to the dealership for programming and calibration. We’ve eliminated that step entirely. This engine computer arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage. This ensures that all factory settings, including engine parameters and anti-theft systems, are correctly configured. The result is a true plug-and-play installation. Simply disconnect the old module, connect this one, and you’re back on the road. No special tools or dealer visits required.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a customer bring in a ’98 Caravan with a classic complaint: the transmission was shifting harshly and sometimes felt like it was stuck in ‘limp mode’ (second gear). They had already replaced the transmission speed sensors and the solenoid pack, spending hundreds of dollars with no improvement. After hooking up our advanced scanner, we noticed communication errors with the Powertrain Control Module (the combined engine and transmission computer in these vans). The module wasn’t sending the right signals to the transmission. We installed one of our pre-programmed ECMs, and the van shifted perfectly on the first test drive. It’s a textbook example of how a failing engine computer can masquerade as a major transmission problem, and why starting with the ‘brain’ is often the right diagnostic path.
Symptoms of a Failing 1998 ECM
- ✔ Persistent and illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or starts intermittently
- ✔ Rough or unstable idling
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and decreased engine performance
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Stalling for no apparent reason while driving
- ✔ Diagnostic scanner cannot communicate with the ECM
Guaranteed Fitment and Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for your 1998 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, or Plymouth Voyager equipped with the 3.3L (6-201) gasoline engine and low emissions package. It is compatible with a wide range of original part numbers, ensuring you get the correct component for your vehicle. Please verify your part number against the list below.
Compatible Part Numbers: 4727154, 04727154AJ, 04727154AF, 4727154AG, 04727154AH, 04727154AI, 04727154AJ, 04727154AK, 05017591AA
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this engine computer truly Plug & Play?
Yes, absolutely. We program the unit using the VIN and mileage you provide during checkout. This process ensures the computer has the correct software and settings for your specific vehicle, allowing for a direct installation without any need for additional programming at a dealership or repair shop.
Where is the ECM located on my 1998 Town & Country?
On the 1998 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager, the Electronic Control Module (ECM) is typically located in the engine bay, mounted to the driver’s side (LH) inner fender, near the battery.
What information do you need from me to program it?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the current mileage. The VIN is essential for loading the correct factory software, and the mileage is programmed to maintain your vehicle’s records. You can typically find the VIN on your dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the driver’s side door jamb sticker.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original ECM, then this replacement part will solve the problem. However, the check engine light can be triggered by many other faulty components (like sensors or wiring). It is always recommended to have the trouble codes read by a scanner to help confirm that the 1998 Town & Country Engine Computer is the source of the issue.
Do I need to send my old computer (core) back?
Please check the specific terms of this listing or contact our customer service. Many of our parts are sold without a core charge, but policies can vary. We make the process as simple as possible for you.