Relay-Heater Unit: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The three ISO-standard relays (1) used for the electric positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater system are electromechanical switches that use a low current ASD power input to control the high current fused battery power output to the PTC heater unit. On each relay, the movable, common feed relay contact is held against the fixed, normally closed relay contact by spring pressure. When the electromagnetic relay coil is energized, it draws the movable common feed relay contact away from the fixed, normally closed relay contact and, holds it against the fixed, normally open relay contact. This action allows high current to flow to one or more of the heating elements of the PTC heater.

When the relay coil is de-energized, spring pressure returns the movable relay contact back against the fixed, normally closed contact point. The resistor or diode is connected in parallel with the relay coil, and helps to dissipate voltage spikes and electromagnetic interference that can be generated as the electromagnetic field of the relay coil collapses.

The terminals for the PTC relays are connected to the vehicle electrical system through receptacles in the diesel accessory fuse/relay block. The inputs and outputs of the PTC relays include:

Terminals (30) receive fused battery current at all times.
Terminals (85) are connected to a control circuit (ground circuit) of the engine control module (ECM) or front control module (FCM) (depending on the relay).
Terminals (86) receive fused battery current through the ASD relay only when the ASD relay coil is energized.
Terminals (87) provide fused battery current to the PTC heating elements through the PTC relays only when the PTC relay coil is energized.
Terminals (87A) are not connected to any circuit in this application, but provide battery current output only when the PTC relay coil is de-energized.

The three PTC relays cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced. Refer to the appropriate wiring information for diagnosis and testing of the ISO-standard relays and for complete ECM, FCM and HVAC wiring diagrams.