Error Code P1684 on 2001 Dodge Caravan SE: Battery Disconnected Detected Despite No Actual Disconnection

I’ve never seen the P1684 code appear independently on a Dodge Caravan. The code typically appears when a battery has been disconnected or the voltage drops significantly — but it's not a diagnostic fault code in itself. It’s more of an indicator that the vehicle’s power system experienced a loss of continuity. To confirm, check if you had any other underlying issues like low battery charge during operation. If so, that could have triggered the code even without physically disconnecting the battery.

I discovered P1684 using the 'key dance' method — cycling the ignition to access stored diagnostic trouble codes. The code specifically states 'battery disconnected within the last 50 starts.' This didn’t happen three weeks ago, but I did disconnect the negative terminal and reconnect it, which temporarily turned off the light. Now it’s back on. I’m confused: why would this code appear after a simple cable disconnection if no actual battery removal occurred?

P1684 indicates an electrical circuit interruption at some point. This can be caused by dirty, loose, or corroded connections — such as at the battery terminals, starter, solenoid, or alternator. The vehicle may have experienced a momentary voltage drop that triggered this code. Given your 2001 Dodge Caravan has around 155 km (about 96 miles), it’s possible that aging components like alternator brushes are contributing to intermittent power loss.

Thanks for the insight — I’ve had about 155 km on my vehicle. While the mileage is low, I’m now considering whether dirty connections or alternator wear could be responsible. I’ll inspect all battery terminals and wiring next.

The light came on during a key cycle, and that’s when P1684 appeared — but it didn’t come up as the only code. I suspect another underlying issue (like low voltage) may have triggered this code. A battery drop to a low state of charge can wipe memory in the ECU and log a fault even without physical disconnection. Using a scanner to clear codes can produce the same effect as disconnecting the battery — so if you used a device to reset the system, that could be why P1684 appeared.

That’s very helpful — I didn’t realize clearing codes with a scanner mimics battery disconnection. I assumed only physical disconnecting would trigger this. Since I’m not technically trained, I’ll likely need to visit a shop if the light returns. It's stressful when something seems out of place.

On October 15, a friend used a code reader and found P0456 (related to a leak in the charcoal canister hose) — we identified a small split in the rubber hose. After using the scanner to clear the code, the check engine light went off. That was three weeks ago. Now, on November 8, the light is back on. When I perform the key dance, I get P1684 again. Since then, my 2001 Dodge Caravan has been started over 50 times. I’m wondering if this code could be related to repeated starts or intermittent voltage drops. I’ve read online that clearing codes with a scanner can trigger the same effect as disconnecting the battery — is that accurate? I'm concerned and not feeling well, so any expert input would help.

I have a 2002 Grand Caravan with a 3.3L engine. The check engine light came on with codes P1684 and P302. I’ve already replaced the spark plugs, plug wires, and #2 injector. What should I do next to diagnose or resolve these issues?

A compression test might help identify engine health. Also, swapping fuel injectors can help determine if one is malfunctioning — especially given the presence of P302 (misfire on cylinder #2).