Description-Power Locks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota and 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

A power lock system is optional factory-installed equipment on this model. The power lock system is offered only on models that are also equipped with power windows. On vehicles equipped with power locks, the power lock motors are controlled by a microprocessor-based Central Timer Module (CTM). The CTM is used to provide many electronic features and conveniences that are not possible with a conventional hard wired power lock system. The CTM microprocessor is able to control power lock system operation based upon the CTM programming and electronic message inputs received from other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus network, Radio Frequency (RF) inputs received from the optional Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system transmitters, as well as many hard wired inputs.

The power lock system includes the following major components, which are described in further detail elsewhere in this service manual:

Central Timer Module -The Central Timer Module (CTM) is located on the left cowl side inner panel under the driver side outboard end of the instrument panel. The CTM contains a microprocessor and software that allow it to provide the many electronic functions and features not available with conventional hard wired power lock systems.
Driver Door Module -A power lock switch is integral to the driver door module unit located near the forward end of the arm rest on the driver side front door trim panel and allows the power lock system to be operated by the driver.
Power Lock Motors -A reversible electric motor integral to the door latch of each door locks or unlocks the latches when provided with the appropriate electrical inputs.
Power Lock Switch -An individual power lock switch is secured to a switch bezel near the forward end of the arm rest on the passenger side front door trim panel and allows the power lock system to be operated by the front seat passenger.
On those models equipped with the optional Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS), the power lock system also includes the following components, which are described in further detail elsewhere in this service manual:
Door Cylinder Lock Switches -A resistor-multiplexed switch located on the back of each front door lock cylinder allows the power door lock system to be operated using a key inserted in either the driver or passenger front door lock cylinder.
Some of the additional features of the power lock system in this model include:
Automatic Door Lock -The CTM provides an optional automatic door lock feature (also known as rolling door locks). This is a programmable feature.
Central Locking -On models also equipped with the optional VTSS (includes door cylinder lock switches), the CTM provides an optional central locking/unlocking feature.
Door Lock Inhibit -The CTM provides a door lock inhibit feature.
Enhanced Accident Response -The CTM provides an optional enhanced accident response feature. This is a programmable feature.

Hard wired circuitry connects the power lock system components to the electrical system of the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are integral to several wire harnesses, which are routed throughout the vehicle and retained by many different methods. These circuits may be connected to each other, to the vehicle electrical system and to the power lock system components through the use of a combination of soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many different types of wire harness terminal connectors and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, further details on wire harness routing and retention, as well as pin-out and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.

Many of the electronic features in the vehicle controlled or supported by the CTM are programmable using the DRB III(R) scan tool. If any of the CTM hardware components are damaged or faulty, the entire CTM unit must be replaced. The power lock system components and the hard wired inputs or outputs of the CTM can be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and methods; however, for diagnosis of the CTM or the PCI data bus, the use of a DRB III(R) scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.