2015 Dodge Caravan Check Engine Light Guide
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The 2015 Grand Caravan carries the 3.6L Pentastar, stop/start delete, and 62TE transmission. A check engine light means the PCM stored detailed data about a fault. This guide walks through code interpretation, diagnostic steps, and maintenance practices to keep the van reliable.
- Applies to: 2015 Grand Caravan SE, SXT, R/T, American Value Package.
- Tools: Enhanced scan tool, Mode $06$, smoke machine, DVOM, mechanical oil-pressure gauge.
- Warning: A flashing MIL indicates a catalyst-threatening misfire. Reduce load immediately and triage ignition/fuel systems.
Top 2015 Caravan Codes
| Code | Subsystem | Likely Cause | First Checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0300/P030x | Ignition/Fuel | Coils, plugs, injector imbalance, compression loss | Inspect plugs, swap coils, review misfire counters, run compression test. |
| P0420/P0430 | Catalyst | Efficiency drop after misfire or exhaust leak | Check misfire history, monitor O2 waveforms, inspect manifolds and gaskets. |
| P2096/P2098 | Fuel Trim | Lean post-cat condition | Smoke-test intake/exhaust, inspect PCV system, evaluate fuel trims. |
| P0456/P0457 | EVAP | Loose cap, vapor hose leak, ESIM fault | Verify cap seal, command purge closed, apply smoke to EVAP service port. |
| P06DD/P06DE | Oil Pump Control | Dual-stage pump stuck or wiring issue | Confirm Mopar filter, measure mechanical oil pressure, inspect harness near oil cooler. |
Diagnostic Workflow
- Capture baseline data: Record codes, freeze-frame, fuel trims, and Mode $06$ data before clearing.
- Repair misfires immediately: Replace plugs if overdue, swap coils, verify injector balance, and confirm compression.
- Address fuel trim/catalyst issues: Repair intake or exhaust leaks, then road-test to confirm O2 sensors and trims stabilize.
- Inspect oil pump control: For P06DD/P06DE, ensure the correct filter is installed and verify oil pressure hot at idle and 3,000 rpm.
- Seal the EVAP system: Command purge closed, smoke-test, and repair hoses or ESIM leaks to clear P0456/P0457.
- Validate the fix: Clear codes, complete a 50-mile mixed drive, and confirm the MIL stays off with all monitors COMPLETE.
Driving Guidance During Repairs
- Avoid towing or high-speed driving while misfire or catalyst codes are active.
- EVAP-only codes allow limited driving, but repair them before emissions testing.
- Monitor oil pressure and coolant temperature; abnormal readings require immediate shutdown.
Preventive Maintenance
- Change 5W-20 oil and Mopar MO-349 filter every 6,000 miles to support the dual-stage pump.
- Replace spark plugs at 100,000 miles and inspect coil boots for carbon tracking.
- Inspect intake manifold gaskets, PCV valve, and purge hoses each service interval.
- Check exhaust manifold bolts annually; leaks often trigger lean and catalyst codes.
- Ensure PCM/TCM software is current to benefit from refined misfire diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with an EVAP code?
Yes for short trips, but repair the leak so the MIL turns off and readiness monitors complete before inspection.
No. Misfires stem from ignition, fuel delivery, or mechanical faults. Use the recommended octane and repair the cause.
How long to verify the repair?
Drive roughly 50 miles with city, highway, and idle segments. Re-scan to ensure the MIL remains off and monitors are COMPLETE.
Related Caravan Resources
- 2014 Caravan reset workflow.
- Transmission troubleshooting.
- Ignition diagnostics for persistent misfires.