Diagnostic Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK THE ECT SENSOR FOR PROPER OPERATION
NOTE:
For this test to be valid, the thermostat must be operating correctly.

NOTE:
This test works best if performed on a cold engine (cold soak).
1. Turn the ignition on.
2. With the scan tool, read the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor value. If the engine was allowed to sit overnight (cold soak), the temperature value should be a sensible value that is somewhere close to the ambient temperature.
  NOTE:
  If engine coolant temperature is above 82°C (180°F), allow the engine to cool until 65°C (150°F) is reached.
3. Start the Engine.
4. During engine warm-up, monitor the ECT Sensor value. The temperature value change should be a smooth transition from start up to normal operating temperature 82°C (180°F). The value should reach at least 82°C (180°F).
  Did the ECT value increase smoothly and did it reach at least 82°C (180°F)?
  
  Yes
  - Go To 2
  No
  - Verify that there is good pin to terminal contact in the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor and Powertrain Control Module connectors. If OK, replace the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
CHECK FOR AN ACTIVE DTC
1. Diagnose all other DTCs before continuing.
2. With the scan tool, read DTCs and record on the repair order.
  Is the DTC active or pending?
  
  Yes
  - Go To 3
  No
  - Perform the INTERMITTENT CONDITION diagnostic procedure. Refer to INTERMITTENT CONDITION .
CHECK THE O2 SENSOR FOR PROPER OPERATION
1. Perform the CHECKING THE OXYGEN SENSOR OPERATION test procedure. Refer to CHECKING THE OXYGEN SENSOR OPERATION .
2. Were any problems found with the O2 Sensors?
  
  Yes
  - Perform the appropriate repair.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
  No
  - Go To 4
CHECK THE MAP SENSOR FOR PROPER OPERATION
1. Perform the CHECKING THE MAP SENSOR OPERATION test procedure. Refer to CHECKING THE MAP SENSOR OPERATION .
  Were any problems found with the MAP Sensor?
  
  Yes
  - Perform the appropriate repair.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
  No
  - Go To 5
CHECK THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR PROPER OPERATION
1. Perform the CHECKING THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM test procedure. Refer to CHECKING THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM (HARD START) .
  Were any problems found with the fuel system?
  
  Yes
  - Perform the appropriate repair.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
  No
  - Go To 6
CHECK THE ENGINE MECHANICAL CONDITION
1. Turn the ignition off.
2. Check for any of the following conditions/mechanical problems:
  - AIR INDUCTION SYSTEM - must be free from leaks or obstructions
  - ENGINE VACUUM - must be at least 13 inches in neutral
  - ENGINE VALVE TIMING - must be within specifications
  - ENGINE COMPRESSION - must be within specifications
  - ENGINE EXHAUST SYSTEM - must be free of any restrictions or leaks
  - ENGINE PCV SYSTEM - must flow freely
  - TORQUE CONVERTER STALL SPEED - must be within specifications
  - POWER BRAKE BOOSTER - no internal vacuum leaks
  - FUEL - must be free of contamination
  - FUEL INJECTOR - plugged or restricted injector, control wire not connected to correct injector
  Are there any engine mechanical problems?
  
  Yes
  - Repair as necessary.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
  No
  - Go To 7
CHECK RELATED HARNESS CONNECTIONS
1. Disconnect all PCM harness connectors.
2. Disconnect all related in-line harness connections (if equipped).
3. Disconnect the related component harness connectors.
4. Inspect harness connectors, component connectors, and all male and female terminals for the following conditions:
  - Proper connector installation.
  - Damaged connector locks.
  - Corrosion.
  - Other signs of water intrusion.
  - Weather seal damage (if equipped).
  - Bent terminals.
  - Overheating due to a poor connection (terminal may be discolored due to excessive current draw).
  - Terminals that have been pushed back into the connector cavity.
  - Check for spread terminals and verify proper terminal tension.
  Repair any conditions that are found.
5. Connect all PCM harness connectors. Be certain that all harness connectors are fully seated and the connector locks are fully engaged.
6. Connect all in-line harness connectors (if equipped). Be certain that all connectors are fully seated and the connector locks are fully engaged.
7. Connect all related component harness connectors. Be certain that all connectors are fully seated and the connector locks are fully engaged.
8. With the scan tool, erase DTCs.
9. Test drive or operate the vehicle in accordance with the when monitored and set conditions.
10. With the scan tool, read DTCs.
  Did the DTC return?
  
  Yes
  - Replace and program the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) in accordance with the Service Information. Refer to MODULE, POWERTRAIN CONTROL, REMOVAL .
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .
  No
  - The wiring or poor connection problem has been repaired.
  - Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Refer to POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST .