LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> Jeep >> 2005 >> Wrangler X, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 627 (Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures - DRIVEABILITY - Gas - Symptom & Diagnostic Tests (DTCS P0031 To P1899)) >> DRIVEABILITY - Gas - Diagnostic Tests >> P1281-Engine Is Cold Too Long (Gas - Except NGC) >> Diagnostic Procedure

Diagnostic Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Pickup and 2004 Dodge Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Refer to VERIFICATION TESTS for appropriate verification test procedures.
    NOTE: The best way to diagnose this DTC is to allow the vehicle to remain outside overnight in order to have a completely cold soaked engine.
    NOTE: Extremely cold outside ambient temperatures may cause this DTC to set.
  1. Verify that the coolant level is at the correct level per service information.

    Start the engine.

    With the DRBIII® in Sensors, read the ECT Sensor temperature value.

    Use a DVOM that has thermal sensing probe to monitor the Coolant temperature at the Thermostat housing.

    The thermostat housing area should be approximately 192-195°F (89-91°C) when the Thermostat begins to open.

    Is the DRBIII® reading cooler than the DVOM reading?

    1. Yes --> Replace the ECT Sensor.

      Perform POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST VER - 2 .

    2. No --> Go To 2
  2. NOTE: The best way to diagnose this DTC is to allow the vehicle to remain outside overnight in order to have a completely cold soaked engine.
  3. Start the engine.

    With the DRBIII®, set the engine RPM to 1500 and allow the engine to warm up for 10-15 minutes.

    With the DRBIII®, monitor the ENG COOLANT TMP DEG value during the warm up cycle. Make sure the transition of temperature change is smooth.

    Did the engine temperature reach a minimum of 80° C (176° F)?

    1. Yes --> Test Complete.
    2. No --> Refer to the Service information for cooling system performance diagnosis. The most probable cause is a Thermostat problem. Also, refer to any related TSBs.

      Perform POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST VER - 2 .