What are the symptoms of the transmission problem in the 2018 Dodge Caravan?

A concise overview: common transmission-related symptoms in the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan include delayed or harsh shifting, slipping, and warning lights on the dashboard. If you notice these signs, have the vehicle inspected promptly.

The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan uses a 6-speed automatic transmission in the 62TE family. When trouble arises, drivers report a range of symptoms from delayed engagement and hard shifts to slipping, overheating, and limp‑mode, often accompanied by warning lights or diagnostic codes. Early attention can prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Common transmission symptoms to watch for

Be on the lookout for several telltale signs that the 62TE automatic may be failing. The following list outlines the most frequently reported symptoms by owners and technicians.

• Delayed or no engagement when shifting from Park or Neutral into Drive or Reverse


• Harsh, clunky, or abrupt shifting between gears


• Slipping gears or rising engine RPM without corresponding acceleration


• Transmission overheating or a burning smell; transmission temperature warning


• Limp-mode activation: the vehicle stays in a single gear with reduced power


• Unusual noises such as clunking, grinding, whining, or whirring coming from the transmission


• Difficulty staying in a gear; the transmission seems to be “holding” or stuck in a gear


• Check Engine Light or transmission-related codes appearing on a scan tool

These symptoms indicate a potential transmission issue that should be diagnosed by a qualified technician as soon as possible. Driving with a failing transmission can cause further damage and costly repairs.

What to do if you notice symptoms

If symptoms appear, take these steps to protect the vehicle and speed up a proper diagnosis.

• Check for open recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the 62TE transmission with your dealer; some issues have documented fixes that may be covered.


• Have the vehicle scanned with an OBD-II code reader or by a shop to pull transmission-related codes (for example P0700 and related codes such as P0715, P0730, P0740, etc.).


• If permissible by your model year, check the transmission fluid level and condition; look for dark, burnt-smelling fluid or metallic particles.


• Avoid aggressive driving, heavy loads, or long trips if symptoms persist to reduce stress on the transmission.


• Schedule an inspection with a qualified automotive technician to determine whether the issue involves solenoids, valve body, torque converter, sensor failures, or more serious internal damage.


• Ask about warranty coverage or goodwill repairs; coverage depends on mileage, model year, and specific case history.

Early diagnosis can prevent more severe damage, such as complete transmission failure or expensive repairs.

Summary

The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan’s 6-speed automatic transmission can exhibit a range of symptoms when failing. Look for delayed engagement, harsh shifting, slipping, overheating, limp-mode, unusual noises, and warning lights. If you observe any of these signs, seek a professional diagnosis promptly to identify the root cause—ranging from valve-body or solenoid issues to torque converter problems—and to determine appropriate repairs or replacements.

What is the transmission problem on the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan?

Common 2018 Dodge Caravan transmission problems include a cracked torque converter, which can cause shifting issues, delayed engagement, and shuddering, as well as a malfunctioning or seizing transmission oil pump, leading to a loss of power. Other symptoms include grinding or whining noises, burning smells, and a transmission warning light.
 
This video explains common problems with the 62TE transmission, which is used in the Dodge Caravan: 1mNational TransmissionYouTube · Feb 14, 2025
Common problems and symptoms

• Cracked torque converter: This can lead to slipping, shifting problems, and shuddering, which feels like driving over rumble strips. 
• Malfunctioning transmission oil pump: A faulty pump can lead to a loss of hydraulic pressure, causing the vehicle to lose power and become immobile. 
• Delayed or failed shifting: This can be caused by issues like overfilled transmission fluid or internal wear, such as an unfastened snap ring on the low drum. 
• Noises: Whining, grinding, or clunking sounds, especially when shifting or starting, can indicate a problem. 
• Leaks and smells: Transmission fluid leaks or a burning smell from the transmission are serious signs that require immediate attention. 
• Shuddering: A shaking or shuddering sensation during acceleration is a common symptom of internal wear. 

This video shows a Dodge Grand Caravan with a transmission fluid leak: 53sLakes Automotive DiagnosticsYouTube · Feb 9, 2023
What to do

• Check for recalls: Visit the Dodge or a dealer website to see if there are any recalls that apply to your vehicle, especially for the transmission pump. 
• Look for the warning light: If the transmission warning light is on, have the vehicle diagnosed immediately. 
• Consult a professional: If you notice any of the symptoms, it's best to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to properly diagnose and repair the problem. 
• Address issues promptly: Transmission problems can worsen if not addressed, potentially leading to more expensive repairs or a dangerous loss of power while driving. 

What are the most common problems with a 2018 Dodge Caravan?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• Transmission Major. Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
• Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Engine Minor.
• Climate System.
• Brakes.
• Body Hardware.
• Engine Cooling.

What happens right before your transmission goes out?

You can tell your transmission is about to go out by listening for unusual noises like grinding or whining, and by observing issues like slipping gears, delayed or harsh shifting, or hesitation when accelerating. Other signs include a burning smell, transmission fluid leaks, and the illumination of the "Check Engine" light. 
Symptoms of a failing transmission

• Unusual sounds: Listen for grinding, whining, clunking, or humming noises. A loud or rough sound when shifting gears is a major warning sign. 
• Shifting problems:
  • Slipping: Your car may feel like it's shifting gears on its own, especially when accelerating. 
  • Hesitation or delay: There may be a noticeable delay when shifting into gear or when the engine revs before a gear change. 
  • Rough or hard shifts: Shifts may feel jerky or harsh instead of smooth. 
• Fluid issues:
  • Leaking fluid: A red or brown puddle under your car could indicate a transmission fluid leak. 
  • Burning smell: A sweet, burning smell often points to overheating transmission fluid. 
• Warning lights: The "Check Engine" light or a dedicated transmission warning light can come on to indicate a problem with the transmission. 
• Performance issues:
  • The vehicle may be slow to accelerate or feel sluggish. 
  • The car may not move when you put it in gear and press the gas pedal. 

What to do
If you experience any of these symptoms, have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with a failing transmission can lead to more severe and costly damage.

What are the symptoms of a bad transmission in a Dodge Caravan?

A common problem customers experience with their Dodge Grand Caravan is delayed transmission engagement and hard shifting when driving. It is also common to feel your car 'shuddering' when driving, which can feel like you are driving over rumble strips if you have a transmission problem with the Dodge Caravan.