2001 DODGE RAM trip computer

Compass mini-trip computer units for vehicles
equipped with the VTSS include a red Light-Emit-
ting Diode (LED) on their electronic circuit board.
This LED protrudes through the bottom of the lens
on the front of the overhead console unit, and serves
as the security indicator lamp. Refer toSecurity
Indicator Lampin Vehicle Theft/Security Systems
for more information on this feature.
The compass mini-trip computer module contains a
central processing unit and interfaces with other
electronic modules in the vehicle on the Chrysler Col-
lision Detection (CCD) data bus network. The CCD
data bus network allows the sharing of sensor infor-
mation. This helps to reduce wire harness complexity,
reduce internal controller hardware, and reduce com-
ponent sensor current loads. At the same time, this
system provides increased reliability, enhanced diag-
nostics, and allows the addition of many new feature
capabilities.
The compass mini-trip computer provides several
electronic functions and features. Some of the func-
tions and features that the compass mini-trip com-
puter module supports and/or controls, include the
following display options:
²Compass and temperature- provides the out-
side temperature and one of eight compass readings
to indicate the direction the vehicle is facing.
²Compass and compass in degrees- provides
one of eight compass readings to indicate the direc-
tion the vehicle is facing and provides the compass
direction in degrees.
²Trip odometer (ODO)- shows the distance
travelled since the last trip computer reset.
²Average fuel economy (AVG ECO)- shows
the average fuel economy since the last trip computer
reset.
²Instant fuel economy (ECO)- shows the
present fuel economy based upon the current vehicle
distance and fuel used information.
²Distance to empty (DTE)- shows the esti-
mated distance that can be travelled with the fuel
remaining in the fuel tank. This estimated distance
is computed using the average miles-per-gallon from
the last 30 gallons of fuel used.
²Elapsed time (ET)- shows the accumulated
ignition-on time since the last trip computer reset.
²Blank screen- the compass mini-trip VFD is
turned off.
The ambient temperature sensor is hard wired to
the compass mini-trip computer module. Data input
for all other compass mini-trip computer functions,
including VFD dimming level, is received through
CCD data bus messages. The compass mini-trip com-
puter uses its internal programming and all of these
inputs to calculate and display the requested data. If
the data displayed is incorrect, perform the self-diag-nostic tests as described in this group. If these tests
prove inconclusive, the use of a DRBIIItscan tool
and the proper Diagnostic Procedures manual are
recommended for further testing of the compass
mini-trip computer module and the CCD data bus.
The compass mini-trip computer module cannot be
repaired, and is available for service only as a unit. If
faulty or damaged, the complete module must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The compass mini-trip computer only operates with
the ignition switch in the On position. When the igni-
tion switch is turned to the On position, all of the
segments in the compass mini-trip computer VFD
will be turned on for one second, then the display
will return to the last function being displayed before
the ignition was turned to the Off position. With the
ignition switch in the On position, momentarily
depressing and releasing the Step push button switch
will cause the compass-mini-trip computer to change
its mode of operation, and momentarily depressing
and releasing the U.S./Metric push button will cause
the unit to toggle between U.S. and Metric measure-
ments. While in either compass mode, depressing the
U.S./Metric push button for more than ten seconds
will toggle the display between the compass/temper-
ature and the compass/compass in degrees modes.
This compass mini-trip computer features several
functions that can be reset. If both the Step and U.S./
Metric push buttons are depressed at the same time
with the ignition switch in the On position, the trip
computer information that can be reset is reset.
Depressing and releasing the Step and U.S./Metric
push buttons at the same time for more than 100
milliseconds, but not more than one second while in
any display mode (except the compass/temperature
mode) will cause a local reset. A local reset affects
only the function currently displayed. See the Reset
Chart below for more information on this feature.
Performing a local reset while in the compass/tem-
perature mode enters the module into the compass
variance setting mode.
Depressing and releasing the Step and U.S./Metric
push buttons at the same time for more than two
seconds while in any display mode (except the com-
pass/temperature mode) will cause a global reset. A
global reset changes all of the trip computer func-
tions that can be reset.
For more information on the features and control
functions of the compass mini-trip computer, see the
owner's manual in the vehicle glove box.
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 9
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - COMPASS MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER
If the problem with the compass mini-trip com-
puter module is an inoperative security indicator
lamp, refer toSecurity Indicator Lampin Vehicle
Theft/Security Systems. If the problem with the com-
pass mini-trip computer module is an ªOCº or ªSCº in
the compass/thermometer display, refer toAmbient
Temperature Sensorin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. If the problem with the com-
pass mini-trip computer module is an inaccurate or
scrambled display, refer toSelf-Diagnostic Testin
the Diagnosis and Testing section of this group. If the
problem with the compass mini-trip computer module
is incorrect Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) dim-
ming levels, use a DRBtscan tool and the proper
Diagnostic Procedures manual to test for the correct
dimming message inputs being received from the
instrument cluster over the Chrysler Collision Detec-
tion (CCD) data bus. If the problem is a no-display
condition, use the following procedures. For complete
circuit diagrams, refer toOverhead Consolein the
Contents of Wiring Diagrams.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse in the junction block.
If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted cir-
cuit or component as required and replace the faulty
fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
in the junction block. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK,
repair the open fused B(+) circuit to the battery as
required.
(3) Check the fused ignition switch output (run/
start) fuse in the junction block. If OK, go to Step 4.
If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component as
required and replace the faulty fuse.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) fuse in the junction block. If OK,
go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the open fused ignition
switch output (run/start) circuit to the ignition switch
as required.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the overhead console. Check for continuity
between the ground circuit cavities of the roof wire
harness connector for the overhead console and a
good ground. There should be continuity. If OK, go to
Step 6. If not OK, repair the open ground circuit to
ground as required.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable. Check for
battery voltage at the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the
roof wire harness connector for the overhead console.
If OK, go to Step 7. If not OK, repair the open fused
B(+) circuit to the junction block fuse as required.(7) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) circuit cavity of the roof wire har-
ness connector for the overhead console. If OK, refer
toSelf-Diagnostic Testin the Diagnosis and Test-
ing section of this group for further diagnosis of the
compass mini-trip computer module and the CCD
data bus. If not OK, repair the open fused ignition
switch output (run/start) circuit to the junction block
fuse as required.
SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TEST
A self-diagnostic test is used to determine that the
compass mini-trip computer module is operating
properly electrically. Initiate the self-diagnostic test
as follows:
(1) With the ignition switch in the Off position,
simultaneously depress and hold the Step button and
the U.S./Metric button.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
(3) Continue to hold both buttons depressed until
the compass mini-trip computer module enters the
display segment test. In this test, all of the Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) segments are lighted
while the compass mini-trip computer module per-
forms the following checks:
²Microprocessor RAM read/write test
²Non-volatile memory read/write test
²Microprocessor ROM verification test
²CCD communications test.
(4) Following completion of these tests, the com-
pass mini-trip computer will display one of three
messages: ªPASS,º ªFAIL,º or ªCCd.º Respond to the
respective test results as follows:
²If the ªPASSº message is displayed, but compass
mini-trip computer operation is still improper, the
use of a DRB scan tool and the proper Diagnostic
Procedures manual are required for further diagno-
sis.
²If the ªFAILº message is displayed, the compass
mini-trip computer module is faulty and must be
replaced.
²If the ªCCdº message is displayed, the use of a
DRBtscan tool and the proper Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual are required for further diagnosis.
²If any VFD segment should fail to light during
the display segment test, the compass mini-trip com-
puter module is faulty and must be replaced.
(5) If all tests are passed, or if the ignition switch
is turned to the Off position, the compass mini-trip
computer module will automatically return to normal
operation.
8M - 10 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

NOTE: If the compass functions, but accuracy is
suspect, it may be necessary to perform a variation
adjustment. This procedure allows the compass
unit to accommodate variations in the earth's mag-
netic field strength, based on geographic location.
Refer to Compass Variation Adjustment in the Ser-
vice Procedures section of this group.
NOTE: If the compass reading has blanked out, and
only ªCALº appears in the display, demagnetizing
may be necessary to remove excessive residual
magnetic fields from the vehicle. Refer to Compass
Demagnetizing in the Service Procedures section of
this group.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console from the head-
liner. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal
and Installation section of this group for the proce-
dures.
(3) Remove the three screws that secure the com-
pass mini-trip computer module to the overhead con-
sole housing (Fig. 7).
(4) Pull the compass mini-trip computer module
away from the overhead console far enough to access
the wire harness connector.
(5) Disconnect the overhead console wire harness
connector from the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule connector receptacle.
(6) Remove the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule from the overhead console housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule onto the overhead console housing.
(2) Reconnect the overhead console wire harness
connector to the compass mini-trip computer module
connector receptacle.
(3) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the compass mini-trip computer module to the over-
head console housing. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m
(20 in. lbs.).
(4) Install the overhead console onto the headliner.
Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal and
Installation section of this group for the procedures.
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
NOTE: If a new compass mini-trip computer has
been installed, the compass will have to be cali-
brated and the variance set. Refer to Compass Vari-
ation Adjustment and Compass Calibration in the
Service Procedures section of this group for the
procedures.
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the com-
pass mini-trip computer module through the ambient
temperature sensor. The ambient temperature sensor
is a variable resistor mounted to a bracket that is
secured with a screw to the underside of the hood
panel near the hood latch striker in the engine com-
partment.
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toOverhead
Consolein the Contents of Wiring Diagrams. The
ambient temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or
repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable
resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal
sent to it by the compass mini-trip computer module.
The resistance in the sensor changes as temperature
changes, changing the return circuit voltage to the
compass mini-trip computer module. Based upon the
resistance in the sensor, the compass mini-trip com-
puter module senses a specific voltage on the return
circuit, which it is programmed to correspond to a
specific temperature.Fig. 7 Compass Mini-Trip Computer
1 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
2 - SCREWS (3)
3 - COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER MODULE
4 - FRONT LATCHES
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 11
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - AMBIENT
TEMPERATURE SENSOR
The thermometer function is supported by the
ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, and a
portion of the compass mini-trip computer module. If
any portion of the ambient temperature sensor cir-
cuit fails, the compass/thermometer display function
will self-diagnose the circuit. If 55É C (131É F)
appears in the display, the sensor is being exposed to
temperatures above 55É C (131É F), or the sensor cir-
cuit is shorted. If ±40É C (±40É F) appears in the dis-
play, the sensor is being exposed to temperatures
below ±40É C (±40É F), or the sensor circuit is open.
The ambient temperature sensor circuit can also be
diagnosed using the following Sensor Test, and Sen-
sor Circuit Test. If the temperature sensor and cir-
cuit are confirmed to be OK, but the temperature
display is inoperative or incorrect, refer toCompass
Mini-Trip Computerin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. For complete circuit diagrams,
refer toOverhead Consolein the Contents of Wir-
ing Diagrams.
SENSOR TEST
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor wire har-
ness connector.
(2) Measure the resistance of the ambient temper-
ature sensor. At ±40É C (±40É F), the sensor resis-
tance is 336 kilohms. At 55É C (131É F), the sensor
resistance is 2.488 kilohms. The sensor resistance
should read between these two values. If OK, refer to
Sensor Circuit Testin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. If not OK, replace the faulty
ambient temperature sensor.
SENSOR CIRCUIT TEST
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor wire har-
ness connector and the overhead console wire har-
ness connector.
(2) Connect a jumper wire between the two termi-
nals in the body half of the ambient temperature sen-
sor wire harness connector.
(3) Check for continuity between the sensor return
circuit and the ambient temperature sensor signal
circuit cavities of the roof wire harness overhead con-
sole connector. There should be continuity. If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open sensor return
circuit or ambient temperature sensor signal circuit
to the ambient temperature sensor as required.(4) Remove the jumper wire from the body half of
the ambient temperature sensor wire harness con-
nector. Check for continuity between the sensor
return circuit cavity of the roof wire harness over-
head console connector and a good ground. There
should be no continuity. If OK, go to Step 5. If not
OK, repair the shorted sensor return circuit as
required.
(5) Check for continuity between the ambient tem-
perature sensor signal circuit cavity of the roof wire
harness overhead console connector and a good
ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, refer to
Compass Mini-Trip Computerin the Diagnosis
and Testing section of this group. If not OK, repair
the shorted ambient temperature sensor signal cir-
cuit as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Locate the ambient temperature sensor, on the
underside of the hood near the hood latch striker
(Fig. 8).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
ambient temperature sensor connector receptacle.
(4) Remove the one screw that secures the ambient
temperature sensor bracket to the inner hood rein-
forcement.
(5) Remove the ambient temperature sensor from
the inner hood reinforcement.
Fig. 8 Ambient Temperature Sensor Remove/Install
1 - HOOD
2 - SCREW
3 - SENSOR AND BRACKET
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - HOOD LATCH STRIKER
8M - 12 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR (Continued)

VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION............................1
OPERATION.............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING..................3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM........3VTSS INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION............................3
OPERATION.............................3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING..................3
VTSS INDICATOR.......................3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) is an
available factory-installed option on this model when
it is also equipped with the high-line or premium
Central Timer Module (CTM). The VTSS is designed
to provide perimeter protection against unauthorized
use or tampering by monitoring the vehicle doors and
the ignition system. If unauthorized vehicle use or
tampering is detected, the system responds by puls-
ing the horn, flashing the headlamps, and preventing
the engine from operating.
The VTSS includes the following major compo-
nents, which are described in further detail else-
where in this service manual:
²Central Timer Module- The high-line or pre-
mium Central Timer Module (CTM) is located under
the driver side end of the instrument panel, inboard
of the instrument panel steering column opening.
The high-line or premium CTM contains a micropro-
cessor and software that allow it to provide many
electronic functions and features not available with
base version of the CTM, including the VTSS. The
CTM provides all of the proper VTSS features and
outputs based upon the monitored inputs. The CTM
circuitry monitors hard wired switch inputs, as well
as message inputs received from other vehicle elec-
tronic modules over the Chrysler Collision Detection
(CCD) data bus network. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/BODY CON-
TROL/CENTRAL TIMER MODULE -
DESCRIPTION).
²Door Ajar Switch- A door ajar switch is
located on the hinge pillar of each front door in the
vehicle. These switches provide an input to the VTSS
indicating whether the door is opened or closed.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING -
INTERIOR/DOOR AJAR SWITCH - DESCRIPTION).
²Door Cylinder Lock Switch- A door cylinder
lock switch is located on the back of each front door
lock cylinder. This switch provides an input to theVTSS indicating whether the system should remain
armed or be disarmed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
POWER LOCKS/DOOR CYLINDER LOCK SWITCH
- DESCRIPTION).
²Horn Relay- The horn relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine com-
partment near the battery. The horn relay is nor-
mally activated by the horn switch to control the
sounding of the vehicle horn or horns. However, it
can also be activated by an output of the Central
Timer Module (CTM) to provide an audible indication
that unauthorized vehicle use or tampering has been
detected. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/HORN/HORN
RELAY - DESCRIPTION).
²Headlamp Relay- The headlamp relay (also
known as the security relay) is located in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine compart-
ment near the battery. The headlamp relay is nor-
mally activated by the Central Timer Module (CTM)
based upon inputs from the Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) panic mode feature. However, it can also be
activated by an output of the CTM to flash the head-
lamp low beams to provide a highly visible indication
that unauthorized vehicle use or tampering has been
detected. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/HEADLAMP RELAY - DESCRIP-
TION).
²VTSS Indicator- A red Light Emitting Diode
(LED) located on the lower surface of the overhead
console near the windshield is illuminated by an out-
put of the Central Timer Module (CTM) to indicate
the status of the VTSS. This LED is integral to the
electronic circuit board for the Compass Mini-Trip
Computer (CMTC). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
OVERHEAD CONSOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER - DESCRIPTION).
The engine no-run feature of the VTSS relies upon
communication between the high-line or premium
CTM and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over
the Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD) data bus net-
work.
Hard wired circuitry connects many of the VTSS
components to each other through the electrical sys-
BR/BEVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 1

er-up mode will also apply if the battery goes dead
while the system is armed, and battery jump-starting
is attempted. The engine no-run feature will prevent
the engine from starting until the alarm system has
been actively or passively disarmed. The VTSS will
be armed until the technician or vehicle operator has
actively or passively disarmed the alarm system. If
the VTSS is in the disarmed mode prior to a battery
disconnect or failure, it will remain disarmed after
the battery is reconnected or replaced, or if jump-
starting is attempted.
TAMPER ALERT
The VTSS tamper alert feature will sound the horn
three times upon disarming, if the alarm was trig-
gered and has since timed-out (about fifteen min-
utes). This feature alerts the vehicle operator that
the VTSS alarm was activated while the vehicle was
unattended.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VEHICLE THEFT
SECURITY SYSTEM
The VTSS-related hard wired inputs to and out-
puts from the high-line or premium Central Timer
Module (CTM) may be diagnosed and tested using
conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. 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.
However, conventional diagnostic methods may not
prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the CTM, the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), or the Chrysler
Collision Detection (CCD) data bus network. In order
to obtain conclusive testing of the VTSS, the CTM,
the PCM, and the CCD data bus network must also
be checked. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the VTSS requires the use of a
DRBIIIž scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information. The DRBIIIž scan tool can provide
confirmation that the CCD data bus network is func-
tional, that all of the electronic modules are sending
and receiving the proper messages over the CCD
data bus, and that these modules are receiving the
proper hard wired inputs and responding with the
proper hard wired outputs needed to perform their
functions. See the ªVehicle Theft Security Systemº
menu item on the DRBIIIž scan tool.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
VTSS INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indica-
tor consists of a red Light-Emitting Diode (LED)
located on the electronic circuit board of the Compass
Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC) within the overhead
console. The LED extends through a hole in the
CMTC lens located near the forward end of the over-
head console housing near the windshield.
The VTSS indicator cannot be adjusted or repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, the entire CMTC unit
must be replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVER-
HEAD CONSOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COM-
PUTER - DESCRIPTION).
OPERATION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indica-
tor gives a visible indication of the VTSS arming sta-
tus. One side of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) in the
VTSS indicator is connected to battery current
through a fused B(+) circuit and a fuse in the Junc-
tion Block (JB), so the indicator remains functional
regardless of the ignition switch position. The other
side of the LED is hard wired to the Central Timer
Module (CTM), which controls the operation of the
VTSS indicator by pulling this side of the LED cir-
cuit to ground. When the VTSS arming is in
progress, the CTM will flash the LED rapidly on and
off for about fifteen seconds. When the VTSS has
been successfully armed, the CTM will flash the LED
on and off continually at a much slower rate until
the VTSS has been disarmed. The VTSS indicator
can be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools
and methods.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VTSS INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indicator con-
dition. If the problem being diagnosed is related to
indicator accuracy, be certain to confirm that the
problem is with the indicator and not with an inop-
erative VTSS. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE
THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM- DIAGNOSIS AND
BR/BEVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

TESTING). If no VTSS problem is found, the follow-
ing procedure will help to locate a short or open in
the VTSS indicator control circuit. Refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, details of wire harness
routing and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse (Fuse 12 - 10
ampere) in the Junction Block (JB). If OK, go to Step
2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component
as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
(Fuse 12 - 10 ampere) in the JB. If OK, go to Step 3.
If not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit betweenthe JB and the Power Distribution Center (PDC) as
required.
(3) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the body wire harness connector for
the Compass Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC) from the
CMTC connector receptacle. Reconnect the battery
negative cable. Check for battery voltage at the fused
B(+) circuit cavity of the body wire harness connector
for the CMTC. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair
the open fused B(+) circuit between the CMTC indi-
cator and the JB as required.
(4) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector (Connector C2) for the Central Timer Mod-
ule (CTM) from the CTM connector receptacle. Check
for continuity between the VTSS indicator driver cir-
cuit cavity of the body wire harness connector for the
CMTC and a good ground. There should be no conti-
nuity. If OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the
shorted VTSS indicator driver circuit between the
CMTC and the CTM as required.
(5) Check for continuity between the VTSS indica-
tor driver circuit cavities of the instrument panel
wire harness connector (Connector C2) for the CTM
and the body wire harness connector for the CMTC.
There should be continuity. If OK, replace the faulty
CMTC indicator. If not OK, repair the open VTSS
indicator driver circuit between the CMTC and the
CTM as required.
8Q - 4 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYBR/BE
VTSS INDICATOR (Continued)

ROAD TEST
DESCRIPTION - ROAD TEST INSPECTION
The following items must be inspected during the
road test portion of the new vehicle inspection.
²Check neutral safety switch operation
²Check operation of shift/clutch interlock system
²Check operation of gauges and warning lights
²Check horn operation
²Check operation of turn signals and emergency
flashers
²Check all mirror adjustments, including day/
night function
²Check windshield wipers for proper wipe pattern
and intermittent mode (if equipped)
²Check washer spray pattern
²Check heater, defroster and air conditioning for
proper operation
²Check that the fan operates quietly
²Check the rear window defroster (if equipped)
²Leave air selection lever in the fresh air position
²Check the rear heater and air conditioning for
proper operation
²Check the rear air register locations
²Check that the indicator lamps operate properly
²Check the operation of the radio, cassette and/or
compact disc player, and that sound quality is good
²Ensure that the clock displays the correct time
²Check that the trip computer/maintenance
reminder operates in all modes
²Check all speed control functions
²Check the service brakes to ensure that they
stop the vehicle in a straight line, without noise,
shudder or vibration
²Check the brake warning light
²Check the parking brake operation
²Check the engine's performance
²Check the transmission's performance for
smooth, quiet operation. If the vehicle is a 4x4, check
that the transfer case shifts easily among all ranges
²Check Autostick function (if equipped)
²Check the vehicle's steering and handling
²The steering wheel should be centered when
traveling in a straight line
²The vehicle should not pull or vibrate
²Check for squeaks, rattles and wind noise
²Check any other vehicle aspects you believe are
important, but that may not be included on the New
Vehicle Preparation Form
²Fill fuel tank with specified grade of fuel
INSPECTION - FUEL
Fill fuel tank with specified grade of gasoline (reg-
ular, midgrade or premium).
INSPECTION - OTHER
As part of DaimlerChrysler's Customer One philos-
ophy, the ªOtherº blank is provided on the New Vehi-
cle Preparation Form. This is designed to encourage
you to check any aspects of vehicle operation that
you believe are important to your customers, but that
do not appear elsewhere on the form.
INSPECTION - SQUEAKS, RATTLES AND WIND
NOISE
(1) Make sure that the instrument panel, glove
box, seats, steering wheel and column are free from
squeaks and rattles. Tighten any obvious loose fas-
teners.
(2) Check that the windows and doors are free
from squeaks, rattles and wind noise.
(3) Check that the vehicle exterior is free from
squeaks, rattles and noise, front and rear.
(4) Make sure that all interior panels are free from
squeaks and rattles.
INSPECTION - STEERING AND HANDLING
(1) Check that the power assist works properly (if
equipped). Steering should not require excessive
effort.
(2) Make sure the steering wheel does not vibrate
at idle or road speed.
(3) Ensure that the steering wheel is centered
when traveling straight ahead.
(4) Check that the vehicle does not drift to one
side.
(5) Make sure that the vehicle does not vibrate/
shake.
INSPECTION - TRANSMISSION/TRANSFER
CASE
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
(1) Make sure that the park lock holds the vehicle
With the vehicle on a grade, put automatic trans-
mission in PARK and slowly release the service
brake to see if park lock holds. If it does not hold, the
transmission requires further service.
(2) Make sure shift lever operates easily/ smoothly
(Fig. 36).
Check for smooth shifting. Check for proper
upshifting and downshifting.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
(1) Check that the shifter operates easily (Fig. 38).
(2) Make sure that the clutch operates smoothly
(Fig. 37).
(3) Look for proper synchronization.
The gears should not grind.
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 15