Intermittent Condition

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: When the engine is operating, do not stand in a direct line with the fan. Do not put your hands near the pulleys, belts or fan. Do not wear loose clothing.

CAUTION: Do not probe the PCM harness connectors. Probing the PCM harness connectors will damage the PCM terminals resulting in poor terminal to pin connection. Install Miller Special Tool (8815) to perform diagnosis.

NOTE: The conditions that set the DTC are not present at this time. The following list may help in identifying the intermittent condition.

Refer to any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that may apply. Review the DRBIII(R) scan tool freeze frame information. If possible, try to duplicate the conditions under which the DTC set. With the engine running at normal operating temperature, monitor the DRBIII(R) scan tool parameters related to the DTC while wiggling the wire harness. Look for parameter values to change and/or a DTC to set. Turn the ignition off. Visually inspect the related wire harness. Look for any chafed, pierced, pinched, partially broken wires and broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded terminals. Perform a voltage drop test on the related circuits between the suspected faulty component and the PCM. Inspect and clean all powertrain control module, engine, and chassis grounds that related to the DTC set. If numerous trouble codes were set, use a wire schematic to help you find any common ground or supply circuits For any relay DTCs, actuate the relay with the DRBIII(R) scan tool and wiggle the related wire harness to try to interrupt the actuation. For intermittent Evaporative Emission trouble codes perform a visual and physical inspection of the related parts including hoses and the Fuel Filler cap. For intermittent Misfire DTCs check for restrictions in the Intake and exhaust system, proper installation of sensors, vacuum leaks, and binding components that are run by the accessory drive belt. A co-pilot, data recording, and/or lab scope should be used to help diagnose intermittent conditions. Use the DRBIII(R) scan tool to perform a System Test if one applies to failing component. Were any problems found during the above inspections? If yes, repair as necessary, then perform POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST VER-5 under VERIFICATION TESTS to ensure system is functioning properly. If no, the test is complete.