Theory Of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 RAM 1500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Heater Control Unit (HCU) operates two heater elements to help eliminate freezing of the DEF. One is the DEF Tank Heater Element (sometimes called the 'Suction Line Heater' or 'Heater 1'). The other is the Pressure Line Heater Element ('Heater 2'). The HCU is located under the driver's side rear wheel well liner. The HCU interfaces with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over two dedicated CAN Bus circuits. The DEF Level/Temperature Sensor reports the temperature of the DEF inside the tank back to the PCM. The PCM determines the heater actuation times and conductance. The HCU receives these commands from the PCM and activates the heater elements as needed. The HCU receives power directly from the vehicle battery to supply the heaters. The PCM illuminates the MIL lamp immediately after the diagnostic runs and fails.