Starting - Service Information: Other Dodge Avenger II facelift

REMOTE START SYSTEM

Note. Available on automatic transmission equipped vehicles only.

Remote start conveniently starts the engine from outside the vehicle by using the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) key fob while maintaining security. The system has a targeted range of 300 ft. (91.4 m). The vehicle must be locked, the deck lid and hood closed and the transmission in Park in order to start the engine using the Remote Start button on the key fob.

STANDARD STARTING SYSTEM

The starting system consists of

1. Starter relay
2. Starter motor (including an integral starter solenoid)

Other components to be considered as part of starting system are

1. Battery
2. Battery cables
3. Ignition switch and key lock cylinder
4. Clutch pedal position switch (manual transmission)
5. Park/neutral position switch (automatic transmission)
6. Wire harnesses and connections.

The Battery, Starting, and Charging systems operate in conjunction with one another, and must be tested as a complete system. For correct operation of starting/charging systems, all components used in these 3 systems must perform within specifications. When attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it is important that you keep their interdependency in mind.

The diagnostic procedures used in this information include the most basic conventional diagnostic methods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere ammeter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheostat (load tester), and 12-volt test lamp may be required.

REMOTE START OPERATING CONDITIONS

In order to operate remote start, the following conditions must be met

1. Key fob sequence must be operated within a 100 meter range of the vehicle.
2. The vehicle must be in Park.
3. Key is not in the ignition.
4. The hazard switch off.
5. Vehicle Theft Alarm or Panic is not alarming.
6. Doors and hood must be closed.
7. The battery voltage is normal (11 to 15 volts).

REMOTE START SHUT DOWN/DEACTIVATE CONDITIONS

Engine will NOT start or will shut down/deactivate during any of the following conditions

1. Key in Ignition.
2. Doors or hood are opened before remote unlock.
3. Hazard Switch depressed.
4. Panic or theft alarm active.
5. Brake applied.
6. A prior remote start cranked the engine, but failed to start the engine.
7. Battery voltage NOT in the normal range.
8. High (run away) or Low Idle (stall) RPM.
9. MIL Active.
10. High Engine Coolant Temperature.
11. Low Engine Oil Pressure.

Scheme 16

INITIATE REMOTE START

To Remote Start the vehicle

1. Press remote button on the Key Fob twice within 5 seconds. NOTE: Engine will run for 15 minutes after a remote start is initiated. After 15 minutes, the engine will shut off. The system allows for only two sequential remote starts without a key ignition cycle.
2. Unlock vehicle with Key Fob to enter the vehicle.
3. Put key in ignition, turn key to run position to exit remote start and enter a normal start without engine shut off.

TERMINATE REMOTE START

To terminate Remote Start, press Remote Start button on the Key Fob once.

Note. In order to avoid inadvertent shut downs, the one-time press to shut down the vehicle will be disabled for two seconds after receipt of a valid remote start request.

These components form two separate circuits. A high amperage circuit that feeds the starter motor up to 300+ amps, and a control circuit that operates on less than 30 amps.

The PCM controls a double start over-ride safety that does not allow the starter to be engaged if the engine is already running.

STARTER SOLENOID

1. Verify battery condition. Battery must be in good condition with a full charge before performing any starter tests. Refer to «GR8 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TESTER»(ref-485500-S06242831882012071300000) or «MIDTRONICS GR8 BATTERY TESTER»(ref-485500-S24279156082012071300000) .
2. Perform Starter Solenoid test BEFORE performing the starter relay test.
3. Perform a visual inspection of the starter/starter solenoid for corrosion, loose connections or faulty wiring.
4. Locate and remove the starter relay.
5. Connect a remote starter switch or a jumper wire between the remote battery positive post and terminal 87 of the starter relay connector. If engine cranks, starter/starter solenoid is good. Go to «RELAY TEST»(ref-485502-S20766502702012071300000) . If engine does not crank or solenoid chatters, check wiring and connectors from starter relay to starter solenoid and from the battery positive terminal to starter post for loose or corroded connections. Particularly at starter terminals. Repeat test. If engine still fails to crank properly, trouble is within starter or starter mounted solenoid, and replace starter. Inspect the ring gear teeth.

STARTER RELAY

SAFETY SWITCHES

For diagnostics of the Transmission Range Sensor, refer to the appropriate transaxle for more information.

If equipped with Clutch Interlock/Upstop Switch, refer to appropriate Diagnosis and Testing in the Clutch information.

IGNITION SWITCH

After testing starter solenoid and relay, test ignition switch and wiring. Refer to the Ignition information or Wiring Diagrams for more information. Check all wiring for opens or shorts, and all connectors for being loose or corroded.

BATTERY

For battery diagnosis and testing, refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING for procedures.

STARTER MOTOR

3.6L

1. Position the starter (3) inside the transmission.
2. Install the starter mounting bolts (4) and tighten to 55 N.m (41 ft. lbs.).
3. Connect the starter solenoid electrical connector (1) to starter solenoid terminal.
4. Install the battery cable and nut to the solenoid stud (2). Tighten the nut to 11 N.m (97 in. lbs.).
5. Install the starter solenoid heat shield.
6. Install the engine mount bracket (1) with three bolts (2) tightened to 55 N.m (41 ft. lbs.).
7. Install the engine mount through bolt and tighten to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
8. Install the catalytic converter. Refer to «CONVERTER, CATALYTIC, INSTALLATION»(ref-485503-S33960274562012071300000) .
9. Connect the negative battery cable and tighten nut to 5 N.m (4.5 in. lbs.).