2003 DODGE RAM service

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.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SPEAKER
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.
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.
CAUTION: The speaker output of the radio is a
ªfloating groundº system. Do not allow any speaker
lead to short to ground, as damage to the radio
and/or amplifier may result.
(1) If all speakers are inoperative, check the fuses
in the Integrated Power Module (IPM). If OK, go to
Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or com-
ponent as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Check the amplifier fuse (if equipped) in the
IPM. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the
shorted circuit or component as required and replace
the faulty fuse.
(3) 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 4.
(4) Turn the radio receiver OFF. Turn the ignition
OFF. Disconnect and isolate the battery negativecable. If vehicle isnotequipped with a amplifier,
remove the radio receiver. If vehicle is equipped with
an amplifier. disconnect wire harness connector at
output side of amplifier. Go to Step 5.
(5) 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 6. If not OK, repair the shorted
speaker feed (+) and/or return (-) circuits(s) to the
speaker as required.
(6) 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 or if equipped, the amplifier
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
FRONT DOOR SPEAKER
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove front door trim panel (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DOOR - FRONT/TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove speaker mounting screws (Fig. 16).
(4) Disconnect electrical harness connector and
remove speaker.
Fig. 16 FRONT DOOR SPEAKER
DRAUDIO 8A - 13
SPEAKER (Continued)

CHIME/BUZZER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHIME/BUZZER
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................1DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHIME
CONDITIONS..........................2
CHIME/BUZZER
DESCRIPTION
The chime module is located within the instrument
cluster and is not serviceable. The chime system pro-
vides the driver with warning chimes for:
²Air Bag
²Seat Belt
²Low Fuel
²Door Ajar
²Low Wash
²Park Brake
²Over Speed
²Turn Signal On
²Key-In Ignition
²Exterior Lamps ON
²Warning Lamp Announcement
²Transmission Over Temperature
OPERATION
FASTEN SEAT BELT
The seat belt reminder system uses both visual
and audible signals. The Instrument Cluster moni-
tors the driver seat belt buckle switch. When the
ignition switch transitions from OFF to RUN and the
driver seat belt has not been buckled, the Instrument
Cluster will illuminate the seat belt indicator lamp
and sound the chime. The system will always illumi-
nate the seat belt reminder lamp for four to eight
seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position. The CHIME will sound during the same
time interval if the driver's seat belt is not fastened.
The warning lamp will remain illuminated as long as
the seat belt remains unbuckled, and the ignition
switch is in the RUN position. Passenger seat belts
are not connected to the system.
HEADLAMPS REMINDER
The Instrument Cluster monitors the multiplex
headlamp switch. The headlamp audible warning will
alert the driver that the exterior lamps have been
left on. If the ignition switch is left off, the driver's
door open, and the headlamp switch is in the parklamp or headlamp position, the chime will sound
until the headlamp switch is turned off, the door is
closed or the battery protection time out expires.
KEY IN IGNITION REMINDER
The Instrument Cluster monitors the ignition
switch. The chime will activate if the drivers door is
opened and the key is in the ignition switch, with the
ignition switch in either the OFF, LOCK, or the
accessory (ACC) position. The chime will continue
until the key is removed from the ignition switch or
the door is closed.
DOOR AJAR CHIME
The Instrument Cluster monitors the door ajar
switches. A chime will sound once when the door is
opened, the ignition is in RUN position and vehicle
speed is present.
TURN SIGNAL ON
The Instrument Cluster monitors the multiplex
multifunction switch. The instrument cluster shall
remind the driver that either turn signal has been
left on by a continuous chime after the turn signal
indicator is left ON for 1.0 miles and the vehicle
speed is 15 mph or greater.
LOW FUEL REMINDER
When the fuel level drops to approximately 1/8
tank, the fuel symbol will light and a single chime
will sound. The light will remain on until fuel is
added.
OVER SPEED
During any ignition ON, the Instrument Cluster
maintains the most recently received speed. If the
vehicle speed exceeds a preprogramed limit set in the
instrument cluster it will activate a single chime.
WARNING LAMP ANNOUNCEMENT
The Instrument Cluster monitors critical engine
and transmission system parameters. If any of the
systems are out of their operating parameters, the
instrument cluster will illuminate a lamp and acti-
vate and audible chime.
DRCHIME/BUZZER 8B - 1

LOW WASH INDICATOR
The Front Control Module (FCM) monitors the
washer reservoir. When the fluid is low the FCM
transmits a J1850 message over the bus. The instru-
ment cluster will chime and illuminate the LOW
WASH indicator. The indicator will remain on until
the fluid level is corrected.
AIR BAG
The Instrument Cluster monitors air bag system
via the J1850 bus communications from the air bag
module. The air bag module will transmit a message
once per second, over the J1850 bus, as to whether
the warning indicator should be on or off. The warn-
ing indicator indicates a part of the air bag system is
inoperative and needs to be serviced. Itdoes not
indicate that the air bag system will not deploy. If
the instrument cluster does not receive a message
from the air bag module for 3 consecutive seconds,
the Instrument will illuminate the warning indicator.The air bag module transmits a J1850 message
requesting the instrument cluster to perform a bulb
check each time the ignition is turned to the on posi-
tion
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHIME
CONDITIONS
NOTE: The Chime/Buzzer Warning System is Diag-
nosed using a DRBIIITScan Tool. Refer to the
proper Body Diagnostic Procedures Manual.
Visually inspect the related wiring harness connec-
tors. Look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded
terminals. If any of the conditions are present, repair
as necessary. If not use the DRBIIItscan tool and
the proper Body Diagnostic Procedure manual. For
complete circuit diagrams, refer toInstrument
Clusterin Wiring Systems.
8B - 2 CHIME/BUZZERDR
CHIME/BUZZER (Continued)

To avoid possible voltage spike damage to either
the Engine Control Module ECM, ignition key must
be off, and negative battery cables must be discon-
nected before unplugging ECM connectors.
(2) Disconnect both negative battery cables at both
batteries.
(3) Remove the 50±way and 60±way connector
bolts at the ECM. Note: Tthe connector bolt is a
female allen head. As bolt is being removed, very car-
fully remove connectors from the ECM.
(4) Remove five ECM mounting bolts and remove
ECM form the vehicle (Fig. 3).
INSTALLATION
Do not apply paint to ECM. Poor ground will
result.
(1) Position ECM to ECM support bracket and
install five mounting bolts. Tighten bolts to 24 N´m
(18 ft. lbs.).
(2) Check pin connectors in ECM and the 50±way
and 60±way connectors for corrosion or damage.
Repair as necessary.
(3) Clean pins in the 50±way and 60±way electri-
cal connectors with a quick-dry electrical contact
cleaner.
(4) Very carefully install the 50±way and 60±way
connectors to ECM. Tighten connector allen bolts.
(5) Install both negative battery cables.(6)Turn key to ON position. Without starting
engine, slowly press throttle pedal to floor and
then slowly release. This step must be done
(one time) to ensure accelerator pedal position
sensor calibration has been learned by ECM. If
not done, possible DTC's may be set.
(7) Use DRB scan tool to erase any stored compan-
ion DTC's from ECM.
FRONT CONTROL MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Front Control Module (FCM) is a micro con-
troller based module located in the left front corner
of the engine compartment. On this model the inte-
grated power module must be positioned aside in
order to access the front control module. The front
control module mates to the power distribution cen-
ter to form the Integrated Power Module (IPM). The
integrated power module connects directly to the bat-
tery and provides the primary means of circuit pro-
tection and power distribution for all vehicle
electrical systems. The front control module controls
power to some of these vehicle systems electrical and
electromechanical loads based on inputs received
from hard wired switch inputs and data received on
the PCI bus circuit (J1850).
For information on theIntegrated Power Mod-
ule Refer to the Power Distribution Sectionof
the service manual.
OPERATION
As messages are sent over the PCI bus circuit, the
front control module reads these messages and con-
trols power to some of the vehicles electrical systems
by completing the circuit to ground (low side driver)
or completing the circuit to 12 volt power (high side
driver). The following functions areControlledby
the Front Control Module:
²Headlamp Power with Voltage Regulation
²Windshield Wiper ªON/OFFº Relay Actuation
²Windshield Wiper ªHI/LOº Relay Actuation
²Windshield Washer Pump Motor
²Fog Lamp Relay Actuation
²Park Lamp Relay Actuation
²Horn Relay Actuation
The following inputs areReceived/Monitoredby
the Front Control Module:
²B+ Connection Detection
²Power Ground
²Ambient Temperature Sensing
²Ignition Switch Run
²Washer Fluid Level Switch
²Windshield Wiper Park Switch
²PCI Bus Circuit
Fig. 3 DIESEL ECM
1 - ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
2 - ECM MOUNTING BOLT
3 - 50-WAY CONNECTOR
4 - SUPPORT PLATE
5 - 60-WAY CONNECTOR
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 5
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

(2) Tighten bolts. Refer to torque specifications.
(3) Check pin connectors in the PCM and the three
32±way connectors (four 38±way connectors if
equipped with NGC) for corrosion or damage. Also,
the pin heights in connectors should all be same.
Repair as necessary before installing connectors.
(4) Install three 32±way connectors (four 38±way
connectors if equipped with NGC).
(5) Install cover over electrical connectors. Cover
snaps onto PCM.
(6) Install negative battery cable.
(7) Use the DRB scan tool to reprogram new PCM
with vehicles original Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) and original vehicle mileage.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a cen-
tral processing unit, which includes the Sentry Key
Immobilizer System (SKIS) program logic. The SKIS
programming enables the SKIM to program and
retain in memory the codes of at least two, but no
more than eight electronically coded Sentry Key
transponders. The SKIS programming also enables
the SKIM to communicate over the Programmable
Communication Interface (PCI) bus network with the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and/or the
DRBIIItscan tool.
OPERATION
The SKIM transmits and receives RF signals
through a tuned antenna enclosed within a molded
plastic ring that is integral to the SKIM housing.
When the SKIM is properly installed on the steering
column, the antenna ring is oriented around the igni-
tion lock cylinder housing. This antenna ring must be
located within eight millimeters (0.31 inches) of the
Sentry Key in order to ensure proper RF communica-
tion between the SKIM and the Sentry Key tran-
sponder.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique ªSecret Keyº code and a
security code. The SKIM keeps the ªSecret Keyº code
in memory. The SKIM also sends the ªSecret Keyº
code to each of the programmed Sentry Key tran-
sponders. The security code is used by the assembly
plant to access the SKIS for initialization, or by the
dealer technician to access the system for service.
The SKIM also stores in its memory the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), which it learns through
a PCI bus message from the PCM during initializa-
tion.The SKIM and the PCM both use software that
includes a rolling code algorithm strategy, which
helps to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIS
disarming. The rolling code algorithm ensures secu-
rity by preventing an override of the SKIS through
the unauthorized substitution of the SKIM or the
PCM. However, the use of this strategy also means
that replacement of either the SKIM or the PCM
units will require a system initialization procedure to
restore system operation.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START positions, the SKIM transmits an RF signal
to excite the Sentry Key transponder. The SKIM then
listens for a return RF signal from the transponder
of the Sentry Key that is inserted in the ignition lock
cylinder. If the SKIM receives an RF signal with
valid ªSecret Keyº and transponder identification
codes, the SKIM sends a ªvalid keyº message to the
PCM over the PCI bus. If the SKIM receives an
invalid RF signal or no response, it sends ªinvalid
keyº messages to the PCM. The PCM will enable or
disable engine operation based upon the status of the
SKIM messages.
The SKIM also sends messages to the Instrument
Cluster which controls the VTSS indicator LED. The
SKIM sends messages to the Instrument Cluster to
turn the LED on for about three seconds when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a bulb
test. After completion of the bulb test, the SKIM
sends bus messages to keep the LED off for a dura-
tion of about one second. Then the SKIM sends mes-
sages to turn the LED on or off based upon the
results of the SKIS self-tests. If the VTSS indicator
LED comes on and stays on after the bulb test, it
indicates that the SKIM has detected a system mal-
function and/or that the SKIS has become inopera-
tive.
If the SKIM detects an invalid key when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, it sends
messages to flash the VTSS indicator LED. The
SKIM can also send messages to flash the LED as an
indication to the customer that the SKIS has been
placed in it's ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
See Sentry Key Immobilizer System Transponder
Programming in this section for more information on
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
For diagnosis or initialization of the SKIM and the
PCM, a DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual are required. The
SKIM cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged,
the unit must be replaced.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 13
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

LEARN A SMOOTH 1ST NEUTRAL TO DRIVE SHIFT
Perform this procedure only if the complaint is for
a delayed or harsh shift the first time the transmis-
sion is put into gear after the vehicle is allowed to
set with the engine not running for at least 10 min-
utes. Use the following steps to have the TCM learn
the 1st N-D UD CVI.
NOTE: The transmission oil temperature must be
between 80 - 110ÉF (27 - 43ÉC).
(1) Start the engine only when the engine and
ignition have been off for at least ten (10) minutes.
(2) With the vehicle at a stop and the service
brake applied, record the 1st N-D UD CVI while per-
forming a Neutral to Drive shift. The 1st N-D UD
CVI accounts for air entrapment in the UD clutch
that may occur after the engine has been off for a
period of time.
(3) Repeat Step 1 and Step 2 until the recorded 1st
N-D UD CVI value stabilizes.
NOTE: It is important that this procedure be per-
formed when the transmission temperature is
between 80 - 110ÉF (27 - 43ÉC). If this procedure
takes too long to complete fully for the allowed
transmission oil temperature, the vehicle may be
returned to the customer with an explanation that
the shift will improve daily during normal vehicle
usage. The TCM also learns at higher oil tempera-
tures, but these values (line pressure correction
values) are not available for viewing on the DRBT
III.
LEARN A SMOOTH NEUTRAL TO DRIVE GARAGE
SHIFT
Perform this procedure if the complaint is for a
delayed or harsh shift when the transmission is put
into gear after the vehicle has had its first shift. Use
the following steps to have the TCM learn the Norm
N-D UD CVI.
NOTE: The transmission oil temperature must be
between 80 - 110ÉF (27 - 43ÉC) to learn the UD CVI.
Additional learning occurs at temperatures as low
as 0ÉF and as high as 200ÉF. This procedure may be
performed at any temperature that experiences poor
shift quality. Although the UD CVI may not change,
shift quality should improve.
(1) Start the vehicle engine and shift to drive.
(2) Move the vehicle forward to a speed of at least
16 km/h (10 MPH) and come to a stop. This ensures
no air is present in the UD hydraulic circuit.
(3) Perform repeated N-D shifts at a stop while
pausing in Neutral for at least 2-3 seconds and mon-itor Norm N-D UD CVI volume until the value stabi-
lizes. The value will change during the N-D shift.
This is normal since the UD value is different for the
N-D shift then the normal value shown which is used
for 4-3 coastdown and kickdowns. Perform repeated
shifts in this temperature range until the Norm N-D
UD CVI value stabilizes and the N-D shifts become
smooth.
LEARN THE 1ST 2-3 SHIFT AFTER A RESTART OR
SHIFT TO REVERSE
Use the following steps to have the TCM learn the
1st 2-3 shift OD CVI.
NOTE: The transmission oil temperature must be
above 80ÉF (27ÉC).
(1) With the vehicle engine running, select reverse
gear for over 2 seconds.
(2) Shift the transmission to Drive and accelerate
the vehicle from a stop at a steady 15 degree throttle
opening and perform a 2-3 shift while noting the 1st
2-3 OD CVI.
(3) Repeat Step 1 and Step 2 until the 1st 2-3
upshift becomes smooth and the 1st 2-3 OD CVI sta-
bilizes.
LEARN A SMOOTH 2-3 AND 3-4 UPSHIFT
NOTE: The transmission oil temperature must be
above 110ÉF (43ÉC).
Use the following steps to have the TCM learn the
OD and 4C CVI's.
(1) Accelerate the vehicle from a stop at a steady
15 degree throttle opening and perform multiple 1-2,
2-3, and 3-4 upshifts. The 2nd 2-3 shift following a
restart or shift to reverse will be shown during the
shift as a value between the 1st 2-3 OD CVI and the
normal OD CVI. Updates to the normal OD CVI will
occur after the 2nd shift into 3rd gear, following a
restart or shift to reverse.
(2) Repeat Step 1 until the 2-3 and 3-4 shifts
become smooth and the OD and 4C CVI become sta-
ble.
LEARN A SMOOTH 4-3 COASTDOWN AND PART
THROTTLE 4-3 KICKDOWN
NOTE: The transmission oil temperature must be
above 110ÉF (43ÉC).
Use the following steps to have the TCM learn the
UD shift volume.
(1) At a vehicle speed between 64-97 km/h (40-60
MPH), perform repeated 4-3 kickdown shifts.
8E - 22 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 19STARTING............................... 28
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................4
INSPECTION...........................6
SPECIFICATIONS........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......7
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......7
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BATTERY
CHARGING...........................8
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BUILT-IN
INDICATOR TEST.....................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................11STANDARD PROCEDURE - USING MICRO
420 BATTERY TESTER.................12
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL.............................14
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
CABLES............................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................17
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................17
OPERATION...........................17
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on gasoline engine equipped mod-
els. Diesel engine equipped vehicles utilize two
12-volt batteries connected in parallel. All of the com-
ponents 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 Cables- The battery cables connect
the battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical
system.
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
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.
DRENGINE SYSTEMS 8F - 1

For battery system maintenance schedules and
jump starting procedures, see the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box. Optionally, refer to the Lubri-
cation and Maintenance section of this manual 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
the 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 thatthe 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), a 12-volt test lamp and/or special service
tools may be required. All OBD-sensed systems are
monitored by the PCM. Each monitored circuit is
assigned a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM
will store a DTC in electronic memory for any failure
it detects. Always check the PCM for stored trouble
codes before returning the vehicle to service. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system test
procedures. Refer to Starting System for the proper
starting system test procedures.
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery tester is
designed to help the dealership technician diagnose a
defective battery. Follow the instruction manual sup-
plied with the tester to properly diagnose a battery.
If the instruction manual is not available, refer to
the standard procedure in this section, which
includes the directions for using the Micro 420 bat-
tery tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMDR
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)