2000 Dodge Grand Caravan P401 Code: Engine Won't Start After Timing Chain and Gasket Replacement

P401 is actually a fuel misfire code related to low fuel pressure or poor combustion—commonly linked to issues in the fuel system or timing. However, it’s unusual for an EGR-related issue (though P401 isn’t strictly EGR) to prevent starting. If the engine has spark, fuel pressure, and injector pulse, it should start unless it's out of time. After a timing chain replacement, misalignment is possible—especially if the cam sensor was damaged during work. I’d recommend having the repair shop inspect the camshaft position sensor and verify proper timing alignment. Also, which gasket was leaking? Was it the intake manifold or timing cover?

The invoice lists 'R&R Timing Chain & Gasket Set' and a separate charge for 'Timing Chain and Gears.' I’m not clear on what these services entail. Could this be an overcharge or unnecessary work? The timing chain replacement seems unusual given the vehicle’s age and history.

Apologies—'R&R Timing Chain and Gasket Set' was a labor charge only, not a part replacement. I mistakenly thought it included new components.

I spoke with the garage owner today. They confirmed that antifreeze was leaking from beneath the timing chain cover. Is this possible? Can a timing chain cover leak antifreeze, and if so, under what conditions?

While antifreeze can leak from the timing chain cover, it’s not common—especially without oil contamination. If the leak is present, it should show signs of mixing with engine oil (brownish color). The antifreeze I found on my driveway was clear and pure, with no oil mix. That suggests either a different source or an issue with the repair itself. Timing chains rarely fail in 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan models unless there’s poor maintenance history. Since the chain didn’t make noise before work began, replacing it seems unnecessary. If a new timing set was installed and now the engine won’t start, that raises serious concerns about whether the job was properly done or if it was performed for profit.

When they removed the timing cover, they said the chain was 'ready to jump off' and offered an additional $200 to replace it. I didn’t hear any noise before the work began. The van has been towed back for inspection. Thanks for all the input—this is very helpful. Tom.

I checked another forum and learned that if antifreeze leaks from behind the timing chain cover, it would typically mix with engine oil and appear brownish. Is this accurate? My driveway leak was pure antifreeze—no oil mixed in.

Even if the leak is from the water pump or a loose hose clamp, pure antifreeze would still point to a different source than a timing cover. Given that the chain didn’t make noise before work and was replaced without cause, I’d consider voiding payment for the previous repair and have the vehicle towed to another shop. As a dealer technician who works on these vans daily, I’ve never seen a timing chain fail due to normal wear—nor has an EGR issue prevented starting. Replacing a perfectly good timing set for $200 seems excessive. If you paid with a credit card, you may be able to dispute the charge. This situation raises serious concerns about overcharging and unnecessary repairs.