NOTE: If a new CMTC module has been installed,
the compass will have to be calibrated and the vari-
ance set. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD
CONSOLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
CALIBRATION).
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER
DESCRIPTION
A Universal Transmitter transceiver is available on
some vehicles. The universal transmitter transceiver
is integral to the Electronic Vehicle Information Cen-
ter (EVIC) and the Compass Mini-Trip Computer
(CMTC) modules, which are located in the overhead
console. The only visible component of the universal
transmitter are the three transmitter push buttons
centered between the modules push buttons located
just rearward of the display screen in the overhead
console. The three universal transmitter push but-
tons are identified with one, two or three light indi-
cators so that they can be easily identified.
Each of the three universal transmitter push but-
tons controls an independent radio transmitter chan-
nel. Each of these three channels can be trained to
transmit a different radio frequency signal for the
remote operation of garage door openers, motorized
gate openers, home or office lighting, security sys-
tems or just about any other device that can be
equipped with a radio receiver in the 286 to 399
MegaHertz (MHz) frequency range for remote opera-
tion. The universal transmitter is capable of operat-
ing systems using either rolling code or non-rolling
code technology.
The electronics module displays messages and a
small house-shaped icon with one, two or three dots
corresponding to the three transmitter buttons to
indicate the status of the universal transmitter. The
EVIC messages are:
²Cleared Channels- Indicates that all of the
transmitter codes stored in the universal transmitter
have been successfully cleared.
²Training- Indicates that the universal trans-
mitter is in its transmitter learning mode.
²Trained- Indicates that the universal transmit-
ter has successfully acquired a new transmitter code.
²Transmit- Indicates that a trained universal
transmitter button has been depressed and that the
universal transmitter is transmitting.
The universal transmitter cannot be repaired, and
is available for service only as a unit with the EVIC
or CMTC modules. If any of these components is
faulty or damaged, the complete EVIC or CMTC
module must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER
If both the Universal Transmitter and the Elec-
tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) are inoper-
ative, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD
CONSOLE/ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFO CENTER
- DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If the Universal
Transmitter is inoperative, but the EVIC is operating
normally, retrain the Transmitter with a known good
transmitter (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD
CONSOLE/UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE - SETTING TRANSMITTER
CODES). If the unit is still inoperative, test the uni-
versal transmitter with the Radio Frequency Detec-
tor special tool as described below (Fig. 4):
(1) Turn the Radio Frequency (RF) Detector ON. A
ªchirpº will sound and the green power LED will
light. If the green LED does not light, replace the
battery.
(2) Hold the RF detector within one inch of the
TRAINED universal transmitter and press any of the
transmitters buttons.
(3) The red signal detection LEDs will light and
the tool will beep if a radio signal is detected. Repeat
this test three times.
Fig. 4 RADIO FREQUENCY DETECTOR
1 - SIGNAL DETECTION LED'S
2 - POWER LED
3 - ON/OFF SWITCH
4 - 9V BATTERY
RSOVERHEAD CONSOLE8M-11
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)
STANDARD PROCEDURE
SETTING TRANSMITTER CODES
(1) Turn off the engine.
(2) Erase the codes by pressing the two outside
buttons. Release the buttons when the display con-
firms the operation (about 20 seconds).
(3) Choose one of the three buttons to train. Place
the hand-held transmitter within one inch of the uni-
versal transmitter and push the buttons on both
transmitters.
(4) Release both buttons. Your universal transmit-
ter is now ªtrainedº. To train the other buttons,
repeat Step 3 and Step 4. Be sure to keep your hand-
held transmitter in case you need to retrain the uni-
versal transmitter.
ERASING TRANSMITTER CODES
To erase the universal transmitter codes, simply
hold down the two outside buttons until the display
confirms the operation.
NOTE: Individual channels cannot be erased. Eras-
ing the transmitter codes will erase ALL pro-
grammed codes.
REMOVAL
(1) For the universal transmitter removal proce-
dure, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CON-
SOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER -
REMOVAL.
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the over-
head console through ambient temperature messages
received from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
over the Programmable Communications Interface
(PCI) data bus circuit. The PCM receives a hard
wired input from the ambient temperature sensor.
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable resis-
tor mounted to a bracket that is secured with a screw
to the right side of the headlamp mounting module
grille opening, behind the radiator grille and in front
of the engine compartment.
For additional information on the PCM, (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
ULES/POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE -
DESCRIPTION).
OPERATION
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable
resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal
sent by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The
resistance in the sensor changes as temperature
changes, changing the temperature sensor signal cir-
cuit voltage to the PCM. Based upon the resistance
in the sensor, the PCM senses a specific voltage on
the temperature sensor signal circuit, which it is pro-
grammed to correspond to a specific temperature.
The PCM then sends the proper ambient tempera-
ture messages to the Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC)/Compass Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC)
over the Programmable Communication Interface
(PCI) data bus.
The thermometer function is supported by the
ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, the
PCM, the PCI data bus, and the Electronics module.
If any portion of the ambient temperature sensor cir-
cuit fails, the PCM will self-diagnose the circuit.
The ambient temperature sensor circuit can also be
diagnosed manually (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
OVERHEAD CONSOLE/AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
- DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AMBIENT TEM-
PERATURE SENSOR CIRCUIT). If the temperature
sensor and circuit are confirmed to be OK, but the
temperature display is inoperative or incorrect,
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CONSOLE -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING) to determine the cause.
For complete circuit diagrams, refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
(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 room temperature (approx. 68ÉF),
the sensor resistance should be between 10-13 Kilo-
hms. The sensor resistance should be between these
two values at 68ÉF. If the resistance is out of range
replace the ambient temperature sensor.
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SENSOR CIRCUIT
(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 Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) wire harness connector.
8M - 12 OVERHEAD CONSOLERS
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER (Continued)
travel is accomplished by hall effect sensors, drive
motor speed and pinch sensors (tape switches).
Anytime the liftgate is opened or closed using the
power liftgate system the power liftgate control mod-
ule learns from the cycle. If a replacement power lift-
gate component is installed or a liftgate adjustment
is made, the module will relearn the effort and/or
time required to open or close the liftgate. This learn
cycle can be performed with a DRB IIIt, or equiva-
lent scan tool, or with a complete cycle of the liftgate,
using any one of the command switches. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/POWER DOORS - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE) for detailed instructions.
The power liftgate system is designed with a num-
ber of system inhibitors. These inhibitors are neces-
sary for safety and / or feasibility of the power
liftgate system. The power liftgate system inhibitors
are:
²The Power Liftgate may not operate in extreme
temperatures. These extreme temperatures will be
approximately less than -12É F (-24.4É C) or greater
than 143É F (61.6É C). A chime/thermister assembly
in the rear light bar assembly monitors the outside
temperature.
²The vehicle transmission must be in Park or
Neutral for the power liftgate to start a cycle.
²If multiple obstacles are detected during the
same power open or close cycle, the liftgate goes into
manual operation.
²If severe problems occur, Diagnostic Trouble
Codes (DTC) are stored in the power liftgate control
module.
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM CAUTIONS AND
WARNINGS
WARNING: ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE CABLE BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM SERVICE.
WARNING: THERE IS A SMALL AREA ON BOTH
SIDES OF THE LOWER POWER LIFTGATE WHICH
IS NOT PROTECTED BY PINCH SENSORS.
EXTREME CARE MUST BE TAKEN TO PREVENT
OBJECTS FROM ENTERING THIS AREA ONCE THELIFTGATE REACHES THE SECONDARY LATCH
CONTACT (APPROXIMATELY 1/2 INCH BEFORE
FULLY CLOSED).
WARNING: NEVER ATTEMPT TO ENTER OR EXIT
THE VEHICLE WITH THE LIFTGATE IN MOTION.
YOU COULD DAMAGE THE POWER LIFTGATE SYS-
TEM AND/OR COMPONENTS AND/OR CAUSE PER-
SONAL INJURY.
WARNING: NEVER STICK OBJECTS IN THE POWER
LIFTGATE WHEN CINCHING CLOSED. YOU COULD
DAMAGE THE VEHICLE, POWER LIFTGATE SYS-
TEM COMPONENTS AND/OR CAUSE PERSONAL
INJURY.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM
The power liftgate system contains many compo-
nents and modules. In order to obtain conclusive
testing the Programmable Communications Interface
(PCI) data bus network and all of the electronic mod-
ules that provide inputs to, or receive outputs from
the power liftgate system must be checked.
The power liftgate system can be diagnosed with
an appropriate scan tool, such as the DRB IIItor
equivalent. The DRB IIItcan be used to observe var-
ious switch statuses throughout the power liftgate
system to help diagnose an inoperative switch or
component. The DRB IIItcan also be used to actuate
various components throughout the power liftgate
system to help diagnose an inoperative component.
Before any testing of the power liftgate system is
attempted, the battery should be fully charged, all
built-in power liftgate system inhibitors read and
understood, and all wire harness and ground connec-
tions inspected around the affected areas on the vehi-
cle.
The following are quick reference diagnostic tables
to help when diagnosing and testing the power lift-
gate system.
RSPOWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM8N-3
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM (Continued)
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
Gear motor did not disengage Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information. Replace components as
necessary
Binding or sticking of components Establish location of binding and replace
components as necessary
Liftgate continues to cinch
closed during power modeInoperative latch assembly Check for blown fuse and loose wiring
connections
Check for foreign matter preventing the
operation of latch assembly
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information. Replace components as
necessary
Inoperative Power Liftgate Module or
BCMDisconnect then reconnect battery to reset
module, function liftgate, if no function
exists check for loose wire connections,
see Body Diagnostic Manual for detailed
procedures
Liftgate continues to open
during power mode
(runaway motor)Inoperative Power Liftgate Module or
BCMDisconnect then reconnect the battery
negative cable to reset module. Cycle the
power liftgate, if the power liftgate is still
not operating properly check for loose wire
connections, refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information
Inoperative full open switch Check wire connections
Replace switch, if necessary
Inoperative motor assembly Check for continuous drive condition
Liftgate opens very slowly Inoperative liftgate motor assembly Check wire connections
Replace motor assembly as necessary
Inoperative liftgate prop rods Replace prop rods as necessary
Binding or sticking of components Establish location of binding and replace
components as necessary
Grade of vehicle too steep for power
operationOperate liftgate manually
Squeaks, Noises and rattles Foreign material in door
compartmentRemove foreign material
Loose components Check and tighten loose components as
necessary
RSPOWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM8N-7
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM (Continued)
STANDARD PROCEDURE
LIFTGATE ADJUSTMENT
In order for the power liftgate system to function
properly the liftgate must move freely and smoothly.
The power liftgate system can accommodate for some
minor changes in the effort required to move the lift-
gate. However, in extreme conditions the liftgate may
need to be mechanically adjusted for proper fit and
finish. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFT-
GATE/TAILGATE/LIFTGATE - INSTALLATION) for
detailed instructions.
If a problem exists with the power liftgate and it is
suspected to be extreme effort, check the liftgate prop
rods and hinges for free movement.
NOTE: Routine application of Mopar MP-50Tor
equivalent on the chrome prop rod shafts and lift-
gate latch and hinges will help keep the liftgate in
good working order.
POWER LIFTGATE LEARN CYCLE
Any time a power liftgate component is removed,
replaced or a liftgate adjustment is performed a learn
cycle must be performed. This learn cycle enables the
power liftgate control module to learn or relearn
information (travel limits, resistance to door travel,
etc.) which allows it to perform properly and safely.
Perform the following to complete a power liftgate
learn cycle:
(1) Obtain a DRBIIIt, or equivalent scan tool.
(2) Connect the scan tool to the vehicle and check
for any power liftgate system stored Diagnostic Trou-
ble Codes (DTCs), correct and erase any stored
DTCs.
(3) Using the scan tool, Go into Test Routine Menu
and select the power open command.
(4) Select the power close command.
(5) The liftgate learn cycle is complete.
If a DRBIIItor equivalent scan tool is not avail-
able, the learn cycle can be performed by actuating
the liftgate using any of the normal command
switches. Be certain to cycle the liftgate through a
complete open and close cycle before returning the
vehicle to service.
NOTE: If the power liftgate will not complete a full
cycle a problem exists with the power liftgate sys-
tem. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER DOORS -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
CHIME/THERMISTOR
DESCRIPTION
The chime/thermistor assembly is a small capacitor
shaped electrical component mounted to the rear
license plate lamp housing assembly (Fig. 2) , located
just above the license plate. The chime portion of the
assembly controls the audible chime sound heard at
the rear of the vehicle when the power liftgate is in
motion. The thermistor portion of the assembly is a
temperature sensor, used by the power liftgate con-
trol module. The chime/thermistor assembly is a ser-
viceable component.
OPERATION
The chime/thermistor assembly performs two dif-
ferent functions for the power liftgate system. First,
the chime portion provides an audible chime sound
which is controlled by the power liftgate control mod-
ule. The chime/thermistor assembly is hardwired to
the power liftgate control module. Second the ther-
mistor provides a outside temperature reading by
way of a resistance reading supplied to the power
liftgate control module. As temperature increases the
resistance reading increases, as temperature
decreases the resistance reading decreases.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
Fig. 2 REAR LIGHT BAR
1 - CHIME / THERMISTOR
2 - ELECTRIC RELEASE HANDLE SWITCH
3 - LICENSE PLATE LAMPS
8N - 8 POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEMRS
POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM (Continued)
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the engage actuator in the vehicle and
connect the engage actuator electrical connector.
(2) Install the two engage actuator retaining
screws.
(3) Manually disengage the actuator.
(4) Install the left rear D-pillar trim on the vehi-
cle, (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/LEFT D-PILLAR
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
(6) Using an appropriate scan tool, check and
erase any power liftgate control module diagnostic
trouble codes.
(7) Verify power liftgate system and engage actua-
tor operation. Cycle the power liftgate through one
complete open and close cycle.
EXTERIOR HANDLE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The exterior handle switch is an electronic release
switch mounted to the rear license plate lamp hous-
ing assembly, located just above the license plate.
This switch controls the power liftgate release func-
tion and is also capable of reversing the power lift-
gate when it is in motion. A full power open cycle
cannot be performed using this switch, only one of
the power open command switches (key fob and over-
head console mounted) can be used to perform a full
power open cycle. The exterior handle switch is a ser-
viceable component.
OPERATION
When the exterior handle switch is depressed, with
the liftgate in the closed position, a message is sent
to the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM then
sends a signal to the power liftgate control module
via the Programmable Communication Interface
(PCI) data bus circuit. The power liftgate control
module then sends a signal to the power latch
mounted actuator, which moves the liftgate from the
primary closed and latched position to the open and
movable position. If the liftgate is not pulled open
once the latch releases within a few seconds, the
latch will cinch closed again.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Open the liftgate and remove the liftgate trim
panel, (Refer to 23 - BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFT-
GATE/TAILGATE/TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the rear lamp bar assembly from the
vehicle.(4) Locate the two wires going to the exterior han-
dle switch. Cut the tie strap and trace the wires to
the large electrical connector and back the wires out
of the large connector and through the grommet.
Take care to mark the location of the wire ter-
minals in relation to the large connector so
that they are positioned in the appropriate cav-
ities upon switch installation.
(5) Depress the two exterior handle switch retain-
ing tabs and roll the switch out of the light bar
assembly (Fig. 5).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the handle switch in the light bar
assembly (Fig. 6).
(2) Locate the two wires going to the exterior han-
dle switch. Install the wires through the grommet
and in the large connector. Secure with a tie strap.
NOTE: Be certain wires are reinstalled in the correct
wire cavities. Failure to do so could result in dam-
age to the handle switch. Refer to the appropriate
wiring information for complete circuit schematic or
connector pin-out information.
(3) Install the rear light bar.
(4) Install the liftgate trim panel, (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
(6) Using an appropriate scan tool, check any
erase any power liftgate control module diagnostic
trouble codes.
Fig. 5 REAR LIGHT BAR
1 - CHIME / THERMISTOR
2 - ELECTRIC RELEASE HANDLE SWITCH
3 - LICENSE PLATE LAMPS
8N - 10 POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEMRS
ENGAGE ACTUATOR (Continued)
LATCH
DESCRIPTION
The power cinch/release latch performs the same
features as a manual liftgate latch as well as the
power cinch and / or release capability. A second type
of power latch can also be found on some vehicles,
this latch is designed to perform a power release
only. The power cinch and release capability is
accomplished by an actuator mounted to the leading
edge of the latch assembly. The latch is located in the
lower center of the power liftgate assembly (Fig. 8)
and contains integral pawl and ratchet switches. The
ratchet switch also acts as a liftgate ajar switch. The
power latch assembly can be serviced as a complete
assembly, latch without actuator or just the actuator.
OPERATION
On the power cinch/release latch, the latch
mounted actuator provides the torque required to
close the power liftgate from the secondary to the pri-mary closed and latched position. On the power
cinch/release latch and the power release only latch,
the actuator releases the liftgate from the primary
closed and latched position to the fully unlatched and
movable position.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Open the liftgate and remove the liftgate trim
panel, (Refer to 23 - BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFT-
GATE/TAILGATE/TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the power latch electrical connector
(Fig. 9).
(4) Remove the power latch retaining bolts.
(5) Disconnect the liftgate lock cylinder link rod
(Fig. 9) from the key cylinder or latch assembly. To
disconnect from latch, rotate the plastic retaining clip
90 É to unsnap clip from linkrod. Then pull link rod
straight out of latch arm.
(6) Remove the power latch from the vehicle.
Fig. 8 POWER LATCH ORIENTATION
1 - LATCH & ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY
2 - LATCH ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - LOCK CYLINDER LINK ROD
4 - LIFTGATE LOCK CYLINDER
Fig. 9 POWER LATCH ORIENTATION
1 - LATCH & ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY
2 - LATCH ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - LOCK CYLINDER LINK ROD
4 - LIFTGATE LOCK CYLINDER
8N - 12 POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEMRS
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the power latch in the vehicle.
(2) Connect the liftgate lock cylinder link rod (Fig.
10) on the cinch latch assembly. Rotate the plastic
retaining clip 90 É to lock retaining clip onto the link
rod.
(3) Connect the link rod on the lock cylinder.
(4) Install three new power latch retaining bolts.
Torque to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.).
(5) Connect the power latch electrical connector
and secure push pin retainers.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable.
(7) Using an appropriate scan tool, check and
erase any power liftgate control module diagnostic
trouble codes related to the power latch.
(8) Verify power liftgate system and power cinch /
release latch operation. Cycle the power liftgate
through one complete open and close cycle, this will
allow the power liftgate control module to relearn its
cycle with the new components.
(9) Verify power liftgate manual operation. Using
liftgate key rotate the lock cylinder to verify door
operation. Pull door open using exterior liftgate han-
dle / switch.
(10) Install the liftgate trim panel, (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
LATCH ACTUATOR
DESCRIPTION
The power cinch and/or power release latch (Fig.
11) is made possible by a latch actuator attached to
the leading edge of the power latch assembly. This 12
volt latch actuator contains a small drive gear that
meshes with the latch assemblies internal gears to
perform the power cinch close / power release opera-
tions. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER DOORS/
LATCH - DESCRIPTION) for additional information.
The power cinch/release actuator is serviceable com-
ponent.
OPERATION
During a power close cycle, the power cinch actua-
tor provides the torque required to close the power
liftgate from the secondary to the primary closed and
latched position. During a power open cycle, the
power release actuator releases the liftgate from the
primary closed and latched position to the fully
unlatched and movable position.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
Fig. 10 POWER LATCH ORIENTATION
1 - LATCH & ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY
2 - LATCH ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - LOCK CYLINDER LINK ROD
4 - LIFTGATE LOCK CYLINDER
Fig. 11 POWER LATCH ORIENTATION
1 - LATCH & ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY
2 - LATCH ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - LOCK CYLINDER LINK ROD
4 - LIFTGATE LOCK CYLINDER
RSPOWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM8N-13
LATCH (Continued)