motors, and fuel pumps that have been found to be
potential sources of RFI or EMI.
OPERATION
There are two common strategies that can be used
to suppress Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) and
ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI) radio noise. The
first suppression strategy involves preventing the
production of RFI and EMI electromagnetic signals
at their sources. The second suppression strategy
involves preventing the reception of RFI and EMI
electromagnetic signals by the audio system compo-
nents.
The use of braided ground straps in key locations
is part of the RFI and EMI prevention strategy.
These ground straps ensure adequate ground paths,
particularly for high current components such as
many of those found in the starting, charging, igni-
tion, engine control and transmission control sys-
tems. An insufficient ground path for any of these
high current components may result in radio noise
caused by induced voltages created as the high cur-
rent seeks alternative ground paths through compo-
nents or circuits intended for use by, or in close
proximity to the audio system components or circuits.
Preventing the reception of RFI and EMI is accom-
plished by ensuring that the audio system compo-
nents are correctly installed in the vehicle. Loose,
corroded or improperly soldered wire harness connec-
tions, improperly routed wiring and inadequate audio
system component grounding can all contribute to
the reception of RFI and EMI. A properly grounded
antenna body and radio chassis, as well as a shielded
antenna coaxial cable with clean and tight connec-
tions will each help reduce the potential for reception
of RFI and EMI.
REMOTE SWITCHES
DESCRIPTION
A remote radio control switch option is available on
some models. Two rocker-type switches are mounted
on the back (instrument panel side) of the steering
wheel spokes (Fig. 12). The switch on the left spoke
is the seek switch and has seek up, seek down, and
preset station advance functions. The switch on the
right spoke is the volume control switch and has vol-
ume up, and volume down functions. The switch on
the right spoke also includes a ªmodeº control that
allows the driver to sequentially select AM radio, FM
radio, cassette player, CD player or CD changer (if
equipped).
OPERATION
These switches are resistor multiplexed units that
are hard-wired to the Body Control Module (BCM)
through the clockspring. The BCM sends the proper
messages on the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) data bus network to the radio
receiver. For diagnosis of the BCM or the PCI data
bus, the use of a DRB IIItscan tool and the proper
Diagnostic Procedures manual are recommended. For
more information on the operation of the remote
radio switch controls, refer to the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REMOTE
SWITCHES
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO ELECTRICAL, RESTRAINTS
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
Any diagnosis of the Audio system should
begin with the use of the DRB IIItdiagnostic
tool. For information on the use of the DRB
IIIt, refer to the appropriate Diagnostic Service
Manual.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
Fig. 12 Remote Radio Switch Operational View
1 - PRESET SEEK
2 - SEEK UP
3 - VOLUME UP
4 - MODE
5 - VOLUME DOWN
6 - SEEK DOWN
8A - 12 AUDIORS
RADIO NOISE SUPPRESSION COMPONENTS (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the airbag system capac-
itor to discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the remote radio switch(es) from the
steering wheel (Fig. 13). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
AUDIO/REMOTE SWITCHES - REMOVAL).
(3) Use an ohmmeter to check the switch resis-
tance as shown in the Remote Radio Switch Test
table.
REMOTE RADIO SWITCH TEST
Switch Switch Position Resistance
Right
(White)Volume Up 1.210 Kilohms
Right
(White)Volume Down 3.010 Kilohms
Right
(White)Mode Advance 0.0511 Kilohms
Left
(Black)Seek Up 0.261 Kilohms
Left
(Black)Seek Down 0.681 Kilohms
Left
(Black)Pre-Set Station
Advance0.162 Kilohms
NOTE: The right remote radio switch back is white
in color. The left switch back is black in color. The
right/left remote radio switch orientation is with the
steering wheel installed, and driver in drivers seat.(4) If the switch resistance checks OK, go to Step
5. If not OK, replace the faulty switch.
(5) Check for continuity between the ground cir-
cuit cavity of the switch wire harness connector and
a good ground. There should be continuity. If OK, go
to Step 6. If not OK, repair the open circuit as
required.
(6) Unplug the 24-way white wire harness connec-
tor from the Body Control Module (BCM). Check for
continuity between the radio control circuit cavity of
the remote radio switch wire harness connector and a
good ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, go
to Step 7. If not OK, repair the short circuit as
required.
(7) Check for continuity between the radio control
circuit cavities of the remote radio switch wire har-
ness connector and the BCM wire harness connector.
There should be continuity. If OK, refer to the proper
Diagnostic Procedures manual to test the BCM and
the PCI data bus. If not OK, repair the open circuit
as required.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO ELECTRICAL, RESTRAINTS
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the airbag system capac-
itor to discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the driver side airbag module from the
vehicle. Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIR BAG.
(3) Remove the steering wheel from the steering
column. Refer to STEERING/COLUMN/STEERING
WHEEL.
(4) Unplug the wire harness connector from the
remote radio switch (s).
(5) Remove three screws securing steering wheel
rear cover.
(6) Remove the remote radio switch from the steer-
ing wheel by depressing tabs on each side of each
switch.
NOTE: The right remote radio switch back is white
in color. The left switch back is black in color. The
right/left remote radio switch orientation is with the
steering wheel installed, and driver in drivers seat.
Fig. 13 REMOTE RADIO SWITCHES
1 - BLACK (LEFT) SWITCH
2 - WHITE (RIGHT) SWITCH
RSAUDIO8A-13
REMOTE SWITCHES (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO ELECTRICAL, RESTRAINTS
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Install remote radio switch to the steering
wheel.
(2) Install three screws securing steering wheel
rear cover.
(3) Connect the wire harness to the remote radio
switch.
(4) Install the steering wheel. Refer to STEERING/
COLUMN/STEERING WHEEL.
(5) Install the driver side airbag module. Refer to
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable.
SPEAKER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SPEAKER
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, SIDE
AIRBAG, 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.
Any diagnosis of the Audio system should
begin with the use of the DRB IIItdiagnostic
tool. For information on the use of the DRB
IIIt, refer to the appropriate Diagnostic Service
Manual.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
CAUTION: The speaker output of the radio is a
ªfloating groundº system. Do not allow any speakerlead to short to ground, as damage to the radio
may result.
(1) If all speakers are inoperative, check the radio
fuses in the junction block. If OK, go to Step 2. If not
OK, repair the shorted circuit or component as
required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Turn the radio receiver ON. Adjust the balance and
fader control controls to check the performance of
each individual speaker. Note the speaker locations
that are not performing correctly. Go to Step 3.
(3) Turn the radio receiver OFF. Turn the ignition
OFF. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the radio receiver.
(4) Check both the speaker feed (+) circuit and
return (-) circuit cavities for the inoperative speaker
at the radio receiver wire harness connector for con-
tinuity to ground. There should be no continuity. If
OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the shorted
speaker feed (+) and/or return (-) circuits(s) to the
speaker as required.
(5) Disconnect wire harness connector at the inop-
erative speaker. Check for continuity between the
speaker feed (+) circuit cavities of the radio receiver
wire harness connector and the speaker wire harness
connector. Repeat the check between the speaker
return (-) circuit cavities of the radio receiver wire
harness connector and the speaker wire harness con-
nector. In each case, there should be continuity. If
OK, replace the faulty speaker. If not OK, repair the
open speaker feed (+) and/or return (-) circuits(s) as
required.
REMOVAL
D-PILLAR SPEAKER
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove rear header trim (right side speaker).
(3) Remove jack cover (left side speaker).
(4) Remove liftgate scuff plate.
(5) Remove upper seat belt bolt. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/SEAT BELT OUT-
BOARD FRONT - REMOVAL).
(6) Partially remove quarter trim panel to access
the D-pillar speaker.
(7) Slide the speaker from the retainer (Fig. 14).
(8) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
speaker.
FRONT DOOR SPEAKER
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the front door trim panel. (Refer to 23
- BODY/DOOR - FRONT/TRIM PANEL - REMOV-
AL).
8A - 14 AUDIORS
REMOTE SWITCHES (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
CHIME/BUZZER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHIME/BUZZER
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................1WARNING.............................1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHIME SYSTEM . . 1
CHIME/BUZZER
DESCRIPTION
The chime/buzzer system provides the driver with
warning chimes for:
²Seat Belt
²Exterior Lamps ON
²Key-In Ignition
²Engine Temperature Critical
²Turn Signals ON
²Dome Lamp ON
²Low Oil Pressure
²High Speed Warning
²Warning Lamp Announcement
²Key-In Accessory
²Low/High Tire Pressure
²Service Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM)
HIGH SPEED WARNING - EXPORT
The chime will sound, acting as a warning to the
driver that the vehicle speed has exceeded 120 3
kph (75 2 mph).
Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic Procedures
manual for further description of chimes.
OPERATION
Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic Procedures
manual for complete chime/buzzer operation and con-
ditions for operation.
HIGH SPEED WARNING - EXPORT
When the vehicle speed sensor sees 120 3kph
(75 2 mph), it sends a PCI data bus message to the
Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM then turns on
the chime to let the driver know that the vehicle has
reached a speed greater than 120 3kph(75 2
mph). This audible message will continue until the
vehicle is slowed below the predetermined speed.
WARNING
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.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHIME SYSTEM
Refer to the proper Body Diagnostic Procedures
manual for complete Diagnosis and Testing of the
Chime System.
NO TONE WHEN IGNITION SWITCH IS TURNED ON
AND DRIVER'S SEAT BELT IS NOT BUCKLED.
(1) Using a DRB llltscan tool, actuate chime
(BCM actuates).
(2) Using a voltmeter, check for voltage:
(a) BCM has two battery feeds at pin 1 and pin
5 of the 6±way connector.
(b) Pin 5 of the (BX2) 32 way connector of the
BCM for ignition feed.
(c) Check voltage (PX2) connector, pin 34 for 12v.
(d) If voltage OK, go to step Step 3
(e) If NO voltage repair as necessary. 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.
RSCHIME/BUZZER8B-1
ProCarManuals.com
Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Man-
ual and the DRBIIItscan tool.
(1) Install PCM module to the mounting bracket.
(2) Install electrical connectors and lock.
(3) Install the splash shield.
(4) Lower vehicle.
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
(6) Using DRBIIItscan tool, program mileage and
vehicle identification number (VIN) into PCM. Refer
to the DRBIIItscan tool and the appropriate Power-
train Diagnostic Manual.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a
microprocessor. The SKIM retains in memory the ID
numbers of any Sentry Key that is programmed to it.
The maximum number of keys that may be pro-
grammed to each module is eight (8). The SKIM also
communicates over the Programmable Communica-
tion Interface (PCI) data bus with the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM), the Body Control Module
(BCM), the Mechanical Instrument Cluster (MIC),
and the DRB IIItscan tool. The SKIM transmits and
receives RF signals through a tuned antenna
enclosed within a molded plastic ring formation that
is integral to the SKIM housing. When the SKIM is
properly installed on the steering column, the
antenna ring fits snugly around the circumference of
the ignition lock cylinder housing. If this ring is not
mounted properly, communication problems may
arise in the form of transponder-related faults.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique9Secret Key9code. This code
is stored in memory and is sent over the PCI bus to
the PCM and to each key that is programmed to
work with the vehicle. The9Secret Key9code is there-
fore a common element found in all components of
the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS). In the
event that a SKIM replacement is required, the
9Secret Key9code can be restored from the PCM by
following the SKIM replacement procedure found in
the DRB IIItscan tool. Proper completion of this
task will allow the existing ignition keys to be repro-
grammed. Therefore, new keys will NOT be needed.
In the event that the original9Secret Key9code can
not be recovered, new ignition keys will be required.
The DRB IIItscan tool will alert the technician if
key replacement is necessary. Another security code,
called a PIN, is used to gain secured access to the
SKIM for service. The SKIM also stores in its mem-
ory the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which itlearns through a bus message from the assembly
plant tester. The SKIS scrambles the information
that is communicated between its components in
order to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIM
access and/or disabling.
OPERATION
When the ignition switch is moved to the RUN
position, the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM)
transmits an Radio Frequency (RF) signal to the
transponder in the ignition key. The SKIM then
waits for a response RF signal from the transponder
in the key. If the response received identifies the key
as valid, the SKIM sends a9valid key9message to
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Pro-
grammable Communication Interface (PCI) data bus.
If the response received identifies the key as invalid
or no response is received from the transponder in
the ignition key, the SKIM sends an9invalid key9
message to the PCM. The PCM will enable or disable
engine operation based upon the status of the SKIM
messages. It is important to note that the default
condition in the PCM is9invalid key.9Therefore, if no
response is received by the PCM, the engine will be
immobilized after two (2) seconds of running.
The SKIM also sends indicator light status mes-
sages to the Mechanical Instrument Cluster (MIC) to
operate the light. This is the method used to turn the
light ON solid or to flash it after the indicator light
test is complete to signify a fault in the SKIS. If the
light comes ON and stays ON solid after the indica-
tor light test, this signifies that the SKIM has
detected a system malfunction and/or that the SKIS
has become inoperative. If the SKIM detects an
invalid keyORa key-related fault exists, the indica-
tor light will flash following the indicator light test.
The SKIM may also request an audible chime if the
customer key programming feature is available and
the procedure is being utilized (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY/TRANSPON-
DER KEY - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove Lower Instrument Panel Cover. Refer
to Body, Instrument Panel, Lower Instrument Panel
Cover, Removal.
(3) Remove the steering column upper and lower
shrouds. Refer to Steering, Column, Column Shroud,
Removal.
(4) Disengage the steering column wire harness
from the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM).
(5) Remove the one screws securing the SKIM to
the steering column.
8E - 18 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESRS
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
(6) Rotate the SKIM upwards and then to the side
away from the steering column to slide the SKIM
antenna ring from around the ignition switch lock
cylinder housing.
(7) Remove the SKIM from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Slip the SKIM antenna ring around the igni-
tion switch lock cylinder housing. Rotate the SKIM
downwards and then towards the steering column.
(2) Install the one screws securing the SKIM to
the steering column.
(3) Engage the steering column wire harness from
the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM).
(4) Install the steering column upper and lower
shrouds. Refer to Steering, Column, Column Shroud,
Installation.
(5) Install the Lower Instrument Panel Cover.
Refer to Body, Instrument Panel, Lower Instrument
Panel Cover, Installation.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable.
SLIDING DOOR CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with a power sliding door utilize
a sliding door control module. The sliding door con-
trol module is located behind the sliding door trim
panel in the center of the door, just above the sliding
door motor (Fig. 15). This module controls the opera-
tion of the door through the Programmable Commu-
nication Interface (PCI) J1850 data bus circuit and
the Body Control Module. The sliding door control
module contains software technology which enables it
to detect resistance to door travel and to reverse door
travel in order to avoid damage to the door or to
avoid possible personal injury if the obstruction is a
person. This feature functions in both the opening
and closing cycles. If the power sliding door system
develops any problems the control module will store
and recall Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). The use
of a diagnostic scan tool, such as the DRB IIItis
required to read and troubleshoot these trouble
codes. The sliding door control module can be
reflashed if necessary. Refer to the latest Technical
Service Bulletin (TSB) Information for any updates.
The power door control module is a replaceable
component and cannot be repaired, if found to be
faulty it must be replaced. Consult your MoparŸ
parts catalog for a specific part number.
OPERATION
The power sliding door control module serves as
the main computer for the power sliding side doorsystem. All power door functions are processed
through the power door control module and/or the
vehicles body control module (BCM). At the start of a
power open command, a signal is sent to the BCM
and then to the power door control module via the
J1850 data bus circuit. This signal, generated by any
of the power door command switches, tells the power
door control module to activate a power latch release,
engage the clutch assembly and drive the door into
the full open position. If an obstacle is felt during
this power open cycle, the module will reverse direc-
tion and close the door. This process is also enabled
during a power close cycle. This process will repeat
three times, and if a fourth obstacle is detected, the
door will go into full manual mode. Once the full
open position is obtained, a hold open latch assembly
mounted full open switch tells the control module
that the door has reached the full open position. If
the power sliding door system develops any problems
the control module will store and recall Diagnostic
Trouble Codes (DTC). The use of a diagnostic scan
tool, such as the DRB IIItis required to read and
troubleshoot these trouble codes.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
Fig. 15 Power Side Door Components
1 - SLIDING DOOR CONTROL MODULE
2 - MODULE RETAINING SCREW
3 - MODULE ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS
4 - DOOR MOTOR ASSEMBLY
5 - FLEX DRIVE ASSEMBLY
6 - DOOR MOTOR RETAINING FASTENERS
7 - DOOR MOTOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
RSELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES8E-19
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 20STARTING............................... 28
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................5
INSPECTION...........................5
SPECIFICATIONS........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......7
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................9
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......9
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - SPIRAL PLATE
BATTERY CHARGING..................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE -
CONVENTIONAL BATTERY CHARGING.....11
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................13
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................13
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CHECKING
BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVEL.........14REMOVAL - BATTERY...................15
INSTALLATION.........................15
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................15
OPERATION...........................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................16
OPERATION...........................16
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY CABLE . 16
REMOVAL.............................18
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................18
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................19
THERMOWRAP
DESCRIPTION.........................19
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................19
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on this model. All of the compo-
nents of the battery system are located within the
engine compartment of the vehicle. The battery sys-
tem for this vehicle covers the following related com-ponents, which are covered in further detail later in
this section of the service manual:
²Battery- The storage battery provides a reli-
able means of storing a renewable source of electrical
energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cable- The battery cables connect the
battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical sys-
tem.
RSENGINE SYSTEMS8F-1
ProCarManuals.com
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Thermowrap- The battery thermow-
rap insulates the battery to protect it from engine
compartment temperature extremes.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
For battery system maintenance schedules and
jump starting procedure, see the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box. Optionally, refer to the Lubri-
cation and Maintenance section of this manual for
the recommended battery maintenance schedules and
for the proper battery jump starting procedure. While
battery charging can be considered a maintenance
procedure, the battery charging procedure and
related information are located later in this section of
this service manual. This was done because the bat-
tery must be fully-charged before any battery system
diagnosis or testing procedures can be performed.
OPERATION
The battery system is designed to provide a safe,
efficient, reliable and mobile means of delivering and
storing electrical energy. This electrical energy is
required to operate the engine starting system, as
well as to operate many of the other vehicle acces-
sory systems for limited durations while the engine
and/or the charging system are not operating. The
battery system is also designed to provide a reserve
of electrical energy to supplement the charging sys-
tem for short durations while the engine is running
and the electrical current demands of the vehicle
exceed the output of the charging system. In addition
to delivering, and storing electrical energy for the
vehicle, the battery system serves as a capacitor and
voltage stabilizer for the vehicle electrical system. It
absorbs most abnormal or transient voltages caused
by the switching of any of the electrical components
or circuits in the vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems in the
vehicle operate with one another and must be tested
as a complete system. In order for the engine to start
and the battery to maintain its charge properly, all of
the components that are used in these systems must
perform within specifications. It is important that
the battery, starting, and charging systems be thor-
oughly tested and inspected any time a battery needs
to be charged or replaced. The cause of abnormal bat-
tery discharge, overcharging or early battery failure
must be diagnosed and corrected before a battery is
replaced and before a vehicle is returned to service.
The service information for these systems has been
separated within this service manual to make it eas-
ier to locate the specific information you are seeking.
However, when attempting to diagnose any of these
systems, it is important that you keep their interde-
pendency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used for the battery,
starting, and charging systems 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, a volt/ohmme-
ter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load
tester) and a 12-volt test lamp may be required. All
OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system on-
board diagnostic test procedures.
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery system tester is
designed to help the dealership technicians diagnose
the cause of a defective battery. Follow the instruc-
tion manual supplied with the tester to properly
diagnose a vehicle. If the instruction manual is not
available refer to the standard procedure in this sec-
tion, which includes the directions for using the
Micro 420 battery tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMRS
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)
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