Home/Dodge/Caravan/Dodge Caravan III (1995-2000)/Repair manual/Testing & Diagnostics/Engine Controls - Tests W/codes - 3.3L: Other
Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Testing & Diagnostics All sections

Engine Controls - Tests W/codes - 3.3L: Other Dodge Caravan III

Testing & Diagnostics 7 illustrations ~1602 words

Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

When ignition is first turned on, MIL should come on and remain on for 3 seconds to verify bulb and circuit operation, and then go off. The MIL is located in message center, above instrument panel.

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors several different engine control system circuits. If malfunction occurs which affects vehicle emissions, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in PCM and PCM enters limp-in mode. When DTC is stored in PCM, the PCM will turn on the MIL and MIL will remain on steady.

If PCM detects active engine misfire severe enough to cause catalytic converter damage, MIL will flash to warn the driver of possible damage and DTC will be stored.

The PCM will turn off MIL when malfunction is not detected during 3 consecutive trips on all applications except an engine misfire or fuel system monitor.

Note. For additional information on engine misfire and fuel system monitor, see ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS.

The PCM will turn off MIL when malfunction is not detected during 3 engine misfire or fuel system monitor tests. The PCM performs engine misfire or fuel system monitor tests when engine is operating within 375 RPM and with 10 percent of the load of operating condition at which first malfunction was detected.

On-Board Diagnostics

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors several different engine control system circuits. If malfunction occurs, PCM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) when malfunction is detected, and PCM will enter limp-in mode. In limp-in mode, PCM substitutes values for failed component and provides continuous engine operation.

The PCM contains electronic circuit monitors that monitor fuel, vehicle emissions, engine and ignition system performance. Monitors use information from various sensor circuits for system monitoring. Monitors do not indicate a specific component failure, but do indicate an implied failure within a specified system, and that the problem must be diagnosed. If any monitor detects a problem affecting vehicle emissions, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in PCM. The following monitors are used

  1. EGR Monitor
  2. Engine Misfire Monitor
  3. Fuel System Monitor
  4. Oxygen Sensor Monitor
  5. Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor
  6. Catalyst Monitor
  7. EVAP System Leak Detection Monitor

The PCM will erase DTC once MIL is turned off. Once MIL is turned off, PCM must not detect the recent malfunction during 40 warm-up cycles on normal operation, or 80 warm-up cycles on engine misfire or fuel system monitor.

Note. A warm-up cycle is defined as the engine is started, an increase of 40°F (4°C) in engine coolant temperature exists after engine is started, and engine coolant temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).

The PCM also records and stores engine operating conditions when malfunction occurred. This information is referred to as freeze frame data. If malfunction is an engine misfire or fuel system rich or fuel system lean, freeze frame data will be updated with the most current information regarding these failures.

DTCs may be retrieved for system diagnosis. See RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. System malfunctions are identified as either hard failures or intermittent failures.

Hard Failures

Hard failures cause MIL to illuminate and remain on until problem is repaired. If light comes on and remains on during vehicle operation, cause of malfunction must be determined by retrieving Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). See RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. If a sensor fails, PCM will use substitute value in its calculations to continue engine operation. In this condition, commonly known as limp-in mode, the vehicle runs but driveability will not be optimum.

Intermittent Failures

Intermittent failures may cause MIL to flicker or illuminate and go out after intermittent failure goes away. However, the corresponding diagnostic trouble code will be retained in PCM memory. If related failure does not reoccur within a certain time frame, related diagnostic trouble code will be erased from PCM memory. Intermittent failures may be caused by a sensor, connector or wiring related problems. See INTERMITTENTS in TESTS W/O CODES - 3.3L article.

SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

Before proceeding with system diagnosis, following precautions must be followed

  1. Ensure fuel pressure is released before removing fuel line or fittings, as fuel system is under pressure and may cause personal injury.
  2. When using SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTS for diagnosis, DO NOT skip any steps or incorrect diagnosis may result. Always perform indicated verification procedure after repairs are made.
  3. When using a jumper wire, ensure either jumper wire or circuit is fuse-protected.
  4. Before disconnecting connector from any control module, ensure ignition is off before removing connector.
  5. When checking voltage or continuity at any control module, probe connector for control module from pin side. DO NOT backprobe connector or probe wires through the insulation.
  6. DO NOT cause short circuits when performing electrical tests. This will set additional Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), making diagnosis of original problem more difficult.
  7. Use specific test equipment as specified when performing electrical tests.
  8. When checking for spark, ensure coil wire is NOT more than 1/4" from engine ground. If coil wire is more than 1/4" from engine ground, damage to vehicle electronics and/or PCM may result.
  9. DO NOT prolong testing of fuel injectors or engine may hydrostatically lock.
  10. On models with 4-speed automatic transaxle, when replacing Transaxle Control Module (TCM), pinion factor, shift quality quick learn procedure and torque converter clutch break-in procedure should be performed. See PINION FACTOR PROCEDURE, SHIFT QUALITY QUICK LEARN PROCEDURE and TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH BREAK-IN PROCEDURE under COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES in GENERAL INFORMATION.

Using Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

  1. Ensure battery is fully charged. Turn ignition on and note operation of MIL. The MIL is located in message center, above instrument panel. When ignition is first turned on, MIL should come on and remain on for 3 seconds to verify bulb and circuit operation and then go off. NOTE: If MIL does not come on for 3 seconds and then go off, bulb circuit may be defective or problem area may exist on wire between between Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and instrument cluster.
  2. Attempt to start engine. Turn ignition off. Without starting engine, turn ignition on, off, on, off and on within 5 seconds. Record 2-digit Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) as displayed by flashing MIL.
  3. For example, DTC 24 will be displayed by 2 flashes, short pause and then 4 flashes. A short pause will exist between first and second digits on DTC. If more than one DTC is stored, after first DTC is displayed, there will be a longer pause and then another stored DTC will be displayed.
  4. Once all DTCs are recorded, proceed to retrieving DTCs using scan tool to ensure all DTCs are obtained. See USING SCAN TOOL.

Scheme 154

Scheme 154: Using Scan Tool
  1. Ensure battery is fully charged. Attempt to start engine. Turn ignition off. Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC) located below driver's side of instrument panel. (Scheme 154)
  2. Turn ignition on. Using scan tool manufacturer's instructions, record all DTCs displayed on scan tool. See SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTS DIRECTORY table. For additional information on retrieving DTCs, see DTC TEST under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTS.
  3. Once all repairs are made, ensure DTCs are cleared from PCM. See CLEARING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM.

FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE

CAUTIONFuel system is under high pressure. Release fuel pressure before disconnecting any fuel lines or fuel system components.
CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION before disconnecting battery.

Scheme 155

Scheme 155: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

Scheme 156

Scheme 156
  1. Following procedure is for releasing fuel pressure in fuel lines only. Fuel line pressure must be released when opening fuel lines. Fuel cylinder pressure must be released before performing servicing of fuel cylinder. DO NOT allow fuel to contact engine or electrical components. NOTE: For fuel cylinder pressure release procedure, see the REMOVE/INSTALL/OVERHAUL - 3.3L article.
  2. Ensure all fuel cylinder valves located at end of each fuel cylinder is in CLOSED position by rotating knob on fuel cylinder valve fully clockwise. (Scheme 155)
  3. Note location of manual fuel shutoff valve located near front fuel cylinder on driver's side of the vehicle. (Scheme 155)
  4. Ensure manual fuel shutoff valve is in OPEN position with valve handle in-line (parallel) with the fuel line. If valve handle is at 90-degree angle to the fuel line, manual fuel shutoff valve is in CLOSED position.
  5. If engine is operable, go to next step. If engine is inoperable, go to step 7).
  6. Start engine and allow to idle until engine stalls. Attempt starting engine 3 more times. Ensure engine will not run. Go to step 10).
  7. If engine is inoperable, move vehicle outdoors. Disconnect electrical connector for high pressure fuel shutoff solenoid. High pressure fuel shutoff solenoid is located on fuel pressure regulator. (Scheme 156) Fuel pressure regulator is located behind shield, near front fuel cylinder. (Scheme 155)
  8. Using jumper wires, apply battery voltage to electrical terminals on high pressure fuel shutoff solenoid. Slowly loosen low pressure line on fuel pressure regulator, allowing fuel pressure to be released. (Scheme 156)
  9. Once fuel pressure is released, remove jumper wires. Tighten low pressure fuel line nut to 30 ft. lbs. (41 N.m). Reinstall electrical connector for high pressure fuel shutoff solenoid. Go to next step.
  10. On all applications, fuel pressure in fuel lines should now be released. Use care when disconnecting fuel lines, as some fuel pressure may still exist in fuel lines.

LOW PRESSURE FUEL SHUTOFF SOLENOID CONNECTOR TERMINAL ID (CNG)

TerminalWire ColorFunction
1Dark Green/OrangeAuto Shutdown Relay Output
2BlackGround

LOW PRESSURE FUEL SHUTOFF SOLENOID CONNECTOR TERMINAL ID (CNG)

Scheme 157

Scheme 157: MAP SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION
TerminalWire ColorFunction
1Violet/White5-Volt Supply
2Black/Light BlueSensor Ground
3Dark Green/RedSensor Signal

MAP SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION

Scheme 158

Scheme 158: OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION (4-SPEED A/T)
TerminalWire ColorFunction
1Dark Blue/BlackSensor Ground
2Light Green/WhiteOutput Speed Sensor Signal

OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION (4-SPEED A/T)

Scheme 159

Scheme 159: PARK/NEUTRAL SWITCH CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION (3-SPEED A/T)
TerminalWire ColorFunction
1Violet/BlackReverse Light Sense
2Black/WhitePark/Neutral Switch Sense
3WhiteFused Ign. Switch Output

PARK/NEUTRAL SWITCH CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION (3-SPEED A/T)

Scheme 160

Scheme 160: PCM CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION
Terminal No.Wire ColorFunction
2Red/YellowIgn. Coil Driver No.3
3Dark Blue/TanIgn. Coil Driver No. 2
4Dark GreenGenerator Field Driver
5Yellow/RedSpeed Control Power Supply
6Dark Green/OrangeAuto Shutdown Relay Output
7Yellow/WhiteInjector No. 3 Driver
8TanStarter Relay Control
10Black/TanGround
11GrayIgn. Coil Driver No. 1
13White/Dark BlueInjector No. 1 Driver
14Brown/Dark BlueInjector No. 6 Driver
15GrayInjector No. 5 Driver
16Light Blue/BrownInjector No. 4 Driver
17TanInjector No. 2 Driver
20White/BlackFused Ign. Switch Output
22Black/PinkMIL Driver
24 (1)Dk. Blue/Lt. GreenKnock Sensor Signal
26Tan/BlackCoolant Temp. Sensor Signal
30Black/Dark GreenUpstream O2 Sensor Signal
32Gray/BlackCrank Position Sensor Signal
33Tan/YellowCam Position Sensor Signal
35Orange/Dark BlueTPS Signal
36Dark Green/RedMAP Sensor Signal
37 (2)Tan/PinkFuel Temp. Sensor Signal
40 (1)Gray/YellowEGR Solenoid Control
41Red/Light GreenSpeed Control Switch Signal
42Dark BlueA/C Pressure Switch Sense
43Black/Light BlueSensor Ground
44Orange8-Volt Supply
45Dark GreenA/C Signal
46Red/WhiteFused B+
48Brown/WhiteIAC Motor No. 3 Driver
49Yellow/BlackIAC Motor No. 2 Driver
50Black/TanGround
51Tan/WhiteDownstream O2 Sensor Signal
54 (3)Dk. Green/Lt. BlueFuel Pressure Sensor
56Orange/Black(4) TCC Solenoid Control
57Gray/RedIAC Motor No. 1 Driver
58Violet/BlackIAC Motor No. 4 Driver
59Violet/BrownCCD Bus (+)
60White/BlackCCD Bus (-)
61Violet/White5-Volt Supply
62White/PinkBrake Switch Sense
63 (5)Yellow/Dark GreenTorque Management Request
64Dark Blue/OrangeA/C Clutch Relay Control
65PinkSCI Transmit
66White/OrangeVehicle Speed Sensor Signal
67Dark Blue/YellowAuto Shutdown Relay Control
68 (6)Pink/BlackEVAP Purge Solenoid Control
72 (6)Yellow/BlackLeak Detection Pump Sense
73Lt. Green/Dk. BlueRadiator Fan Relay Control
74BrownFuel Pump Relay Control
75Light GreenSCI Receive
76Black/WhitePark/Neutral Switch Sense
77White/Dark GreenLeak Detection Pump Control
78Tan/RedSpeed Control Vacuum Solenoid Control
80Light Green/RedSpeed Control Vent Solenoid Control
(1) Does not apply to 3.3L CNG. (2) Applies to 3.3L CNG. (3) Applies to 3.3L CNG. (4) TCC solenoid is torque converter clutch solenoid. (5) Applies to models with 4-speed electronic controlled transaxle. (6) Does not apply to 3.3L CNG.
(1)Does not apply to 3.3L CNG.
(2)Applies to 3.3L CNG.
(3)Applies to 3.3L CNG.
(4)TCC solenoid is torque converter clutch solenoid.
(5)Applies to models with 4-speed electronic controlled transaxle.
(6)Does not apply to 3.3L CNG.

PCM CONNECTOR TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION

UPSTREAM OXYGEN SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL ID

TerminalWire ColorFunction
1BlackHeater Ground
2Dark Green/OrangeAuto Shutdown Relay Output
3Black/Light BlueSensor Ground
4Black/Dark GreenSensor Signal

UPSTREAM OXYGEN SENSOR CONNECTOR TERMINAL ID

SUMMARY

If no diagnostic trouble code is present but driveability problem still exists, proceed to TESTS W/O CODES - 3.3L article for symptom diagnostic or intermittent diagnosis procedures.