SYMPTOMS DIAGNOSIS
Symptom checks cannot be used properly unless problem occurs while vehicle is tested. To reduce diagnostic time, ensure steps in the BASIC TESTING - GASOLINE and in the appropriate TESTS W/CODES (if applicable) articles are performed before diagnosing a symptom.
TESTS W/CODES - 2.5L - Caravan, Dakota, Voyager
TESTS W/CODES - 3.0L - Caravan, Voyager
TESTS W/CODES - 3.3L - Caravan, Town & Country, Voyager
TESTS W/CODES - 3.9L - Dakota, Pickup, Ramcharger, RWD Van
TESTS W/CODES - V8 - Dakota, Pickup, Ramcharger, RWD Van
Symptoms available for diagnosis include these symptoms.
- No Start - Cold Engine
- No Start - Warm Engine
- Starts But Stalls
- Hard To Start - Cold Engine
- Erratic Idle - Warm-Up
- Engine Surges
- Backfiring
- Incorrect Idle Speed
- Hesitation - Acceleration
- Hesitation - Coasting
- Knocking
- Engine Misfire - All Conditions
- Insufficient Engine Power
- Poor Fuel Economy
- Excessive HC & NOx
INTERMITTENT PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS
Intermittent fault testing requires duplicating circuit or component failure to identify the problem. These procedures may lead to the computer setting a fault code (on some systems), which may help in diagnosis.
If problem vehicle does not produce fault codes, monitor voltage or resistance values using a digital volt-ohmmeter (DVOM) while attempting to reproduce conditions causing intermittent fault. A status change on DVOM indicates a fault has been located.
Use a DVOM to pinpoint faults. When monitoring voltage, ensure ignition switch is in ON position or engine is running. Ensure ignition switch is in OFF position or negative battery cable is disconnected when monitoring circuit resistance. Status changes on DVOM during test procedures indicate area of fault.
See also:
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - GASOLINE