service indicator DODGE RAM 2002 Service User Guide

OPERATION
OPERATION - PCM - GAS ENGINES
The PCM operates the fuel system. The PCM is a
pre-programmed, triple microprocessor digital com-
puter. It regulates ignition timing, air-fuel ratio,
emission control devices, charging system, certain
transmission features, speed control, air conditioning
compressor clutch engagement and idle speed. The
PCM can adapt its programming to meet changing
operating conditions.
The PCM receives input signals from various
switches and sensors. Based on these inputs, the
PCM regulates various engine and vehicle operations
through different system components. These compo-
nents are referred to as Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) Outputs. The sensors and switches that pro-
vide inputs to the PCM are considered Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) Inputs.
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based upon
inputs it receives from sensors that react to: engine
rpm, manifold absolute pressure, engine coolant tem-
perature, throttle position, transmission gear selec-
tion (automatic transmission), vehicle speed and the
brake switch.
The PCM adjusts idle speed based on inputs it
receives from sensors that react to: throttle position,
vehicle speed, transmission gear selection, engine
coolant temperature and from inputs it receives from
the air conditioning clutch switch and brake switch.
Based on inputs that it receives, the PCM adjusts
ignition coil dwell. The PCM also adjusts the gener-
ator charge rate through control of the generator
field and provides speed control operation.
NOTE: PCM Inputs:
²A/C request (if equipped with factory A/C)
²A/C select (if equipped with factory A/C)
²Auto shutdown (ASD) sense
²Battery temperature
²Battery voltage
²Brake switch
²CCD bus (+) circuits
²CCD bus (-) circuits
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Fuel level
²Generator (battery voltage) output
²Ignition circuit sense (ignition switch in on/off/
crank/run position)
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Leak detection pump (switch) sense (if equipped)
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor²Oil pressure
²Output shaft speed sensor
²Overdrive/override switch
²Oxygen sensors
²Park/neutral switch (auto. trans. only)
²Power ground
²Sensor return
²Signal ground
²Speed control multiplexed single wire input
²Throttle position sensor
²Transmission governor pressure sensor
²Transmission temperature sensor
²Vehicle speed inputs from ABS or RWAL system
NOTE: PCM Outputs:
²A/C clutch relay
²Auto shutdown (ASD) relay
²CCD bus (+/-) circuits for: speedometer, voltme-
ter, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge/lamp, engine temp.
gauge and speed control warn. lamp
²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²EGR valve control solenoid (if equipped)
²EVAP canister purge solenoid
²Five volt sensor supply (primary)
²Five volt sensor supply (secondary)
²Fuel injectors
²Fuel pump relay
²Generator field driver (-)
²Generator field driver (+)
²Generator lamp (if equipped)
²Idle air control (IAC) motor
²Ignition coil
²Leak detection pump (if equipped)
²Malfunction indicator lamp (Check engine lamp).
Driven through CCD circuits.
²Overdrive indicator lamp (if equipped)
²Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) Lamp (MAINT
REQ'D lamp). Driven through CCD circuits.
²Speed control vacuum solenoid
²Speed control vent solenoid
²Tachometer (if equipped). Driven through CCD
circuits.
²Transmission convertor clutch circuit
²Transmission 3±4 shift solenoid
²Transmission relay
²Transmission temperature lamp (if equipped)
²Transmission variable force solenoid
OPERATION - DIESEL
Two different control modules are used: The Pow-
ertrain Control Module (PCM), and the Engine Con-
trol Module (ECM). The ECMcontrolsthe fuel
system. The PCMdoes not controlthe fuel system.
The PCM's main function is to control: the vehicle
charging system, speed control system, transmission,
air conditioning system and certain bussed messages.
8E - 18 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESBR/BE
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 25STARTING............................... 31
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................5
INSPECTION...........................6
SPECIFICATIONS
BATTERY............................6
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 - HYDROMETER
TEST...............................11
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................12
STANDARD PROCEDURE - LOAD TEST....12
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................13
STANDARD PROCEDURE - USING
MIDTRONICS ELECTRICAL TESTER.......15REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................17
OPERATION...........................17
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY CABLE
DESCRIPTION.........................18
OPERATION...........................18
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
CABLES............................19
REMOVAL
POSITIVE CABLE REMOVAL - GASOLINE
ENGINE.............................21
NEGATIVE CABLE REMOVAL - GASOLINE
ENGINE.............................22
INSTALLATION
POSITIVE CABLE INSTALLATION -
GASOLINE ENGINE....................22
NEGATIVE CABLE INSTALLATION -
GASOLINE ENGINE....................22
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................23
OPERATION...........................23
REMOVAL.............................23
INSTALLATION.........................24
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery system is standard factory-
installed equipment on gasoline engine equipped
models. Models equipped with a diesel engine utilize
two 12-volt batteries connected in parallel. All of thecomponents of the battery system are located within
the engine compartment of the vehicle. The service
information for the battery system in this vehicle
covers the following related components, which are
covered in further detail elsewhere in this service
manual:
BR/BEENGINE SYSTEMS 8F - 1

(4) Clean the battery thermal guard with a sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning
solution using a stiff bristle parts cleaning brush to
remove any acid film.
(5) Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal
posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal
cleaner, and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and
warm water cleaning solution (Fig. 3).
INSPECTION
The following information details the recommended
inspection procedures for the battery and related
components. In addition to the maintenance sched-
ules found in this service manual and the owner's
manual, it is recommended that these procedures be
performed any time the battery or related compo-
nents must be removed for vehicle service.
(1) Inspect the battery cable terminal clamps for
damage. Replace any battery cable that has a dam-
aged or deformed terminal clamp.
(2) Inspect the battery tray and battery holddown
hardware for damage. Replace any damaged parts.
(3) Slide the thermal guard off of the battery case,
if equipped. Inspect the battery case for cracks or
other damage that could result in electrolyte leaks.
Also, check the battery terminal posts for looseness.
Batteries with damaged cases or loose terminal posts
must be replaced.
(4) Inspect the battery thermal guard for tears,
cracks, deformation or other damage. Replace any
battery thermal guard that has been damaged.(5) Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight
glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the
battery is discharged, charge as required. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
SPECIFICATIONS
BATTERY
Battery Classifications and Ratings
Part NumberBCI Group Size
ClassificationCold
Cranking
AmperageReserve
CapacityAmpere-HoursLoad Test
Amperage
56028375AA 27 600 120 Minutes 66 300
56028376AA 27 750 150 Minutes 75 375
Fig. 3 Clean Battery Terminal Post - Typical
1 - TERMINAL BRUSH
2 - BATTERY CABLE
3 - BATTERY
8F - 6 BATTERY SYSTEMBR/BE
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION
A large capacity, low-maintenance storage battery
(Fig. 4) is standard factory-installed equipment on
this model. Refer to Battery System Specifications for
the proper specifications of the factory-installed bat-
teries available on this model. Male post type termi-
nals made of a soft lead material protrude from the
top of the molded plastic battery case to provide the
means for connecting the battery to the vehicle elec-
trical system. The battery positive terminal post is
physically larger in diameter than the negative ter-
minal post to ensure proper battery connection. The
lettersPOSandNEGare also molded into the top of
the battery case adjacent to their respective positive
and negative terminal posts for identification confir-
mation. Refer to Battery Cables for more information
on the battery cables that connect the battery to the
vehicle electrical system.
The battery is made up of six individual cells that
are connected in series. Each cell contains positively
charged plate groups that are connected with lead
straps to the positive terminal post, and negatively
charged plate groups that are connected with lead
straps to the negative terminal post. Each plate con-
sists of a stiff mesh framework or grid coated with
lead dioxide (positive plate) or sponge lead (negative
plate). Insulators or plate separators made of a non-
conductive material are inserted between the positiveand negative plates to prevent them from contacting
or shorting against one another. These dissimilar
metal plates are submerged in a sulfuric acid and
water solution called an electrolyte.
The factory-installed battery has a built-in test
indicator (hydrometer). The color visible in the sight
glass of the indicator will reveal the battery condi-
tion. Refer to Standard Procedures for the proper
built-in indicator test procedures.The factory-in-
stalled low-maintenance battery has non-re-
movable battery cell caps.Water cannot be added
to this battery. The battery is not sealed and has
vent holes in the cell caps. The chemical composition
of the metal coated plates within the low-mainte-
nance battery reduces battery gassing and water
loss, at normal charge and discharge rates. There-
fore, the battery should not require additional water
in normal service. Rapid loss of electrolyte can be
caused by an overcharging condition. Be certain to
diagnose the charging system before returning the
vehicle to service. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
CHARGING - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
The battery must be completely charged and the
top, posts and terminal clamps should be properly
cleaned and inspected before diagnostic procedures
are performed. Refer to Battery System Cleaning for
MIDTRONICS BATTERY AND CHARGING SYSTEM
TESTER - Micro420
Fig. 4 Low-Maintenance Battery - Typical
1 - POSITIVE POST
2 - VENT
3 - CELL CAP
4 - TEST INDICATOR
5 - CELL CAP
6 - VENT
7 - NEGATIVE POST
8 - GREEN BALL
9 - ELECTROLYTE LEVEL
10 - PLATE GROUPS
11 - LOW-MAINTENANCE BATTERY
BR/BEBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 7
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

²Temperature- A longer time will be needed to
charge a battery at -18É C (0É F) than at 27É C (80É
F). When a fast battery charger is connected to a cold
battery, the current accepted by the battery will be
very low at first. As the battery warms, it will accept
a higher charging current rate (amperage).
²Charger Capacity- A battery charger that
supplies only five amperes will require a longer
charging time. A battery charger that supplies
twenty amperes or more will require a shorter charg-
ing time.
²State-Of-Charge- A completely discharged bat-
tery requires more charging time than a partially
discharged battery. Electrolyte is nearly pure water
in a completely discharged battery. At first, the
charging current (amperage) will be low. As the bat-
tery charges, the specific gravity of the electrolyte
will gradually rise.
The Battery Charging Time Table gives an indica-
tion of the time required to charge a typical battery
at room temperature based upon the battery state-of-
charge and the charger capacity.
BATTERY CHARGING TIME TABLE
Charging
Amperage5 Amps10
Amps20 Amps
Open Circuit
VoltageHours Charging @
21É C (70É F)
12.25 to 12.49 6 hours 3 hours 1.5
hours
12.00 to 12.24 10 hours 5 hours 2.5
hours
10.00 to 11.99 14 hours 7 hours 3.5
hours
Below 10.00 18 hours 9 hours 4.5
hours
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BUILT-IN
INDICATOR TEST
An indicator (hydrometer) built into the top of the
battery case provides visual information for battery
testing (Fig. 6). Like a hydrometer, the built-in indi-
cator measures the specific gravity of the battery
electrolyte. The specific gravity of the electrolyte
reveals the battery state-of-charge; however, it will
not reveal the cranking capacity of the battery. A load
test must be performed to determine the battery
cranking capacity. Refer to Standard Procedures for
the proper battery load test procedures.
Before testing, visually inspect the battery for any
damage (a cracked case or cover, loose posts, etc.)
that would cause the battery to be faulty. In order to
obtain correct indications from the built-in indicator,
it is important that the battery be level and have aclean sight glass. Additional light may be required to
view the indicator.Do not use open flame as a
source of additional light.
To read the built-in indicator, look into the sight
glass and note the color of the indication (Fig. 7). The
battery condition that each color indicates is
described in the following list:
²Green- Indicates 75% to 100% battery state-of-
charge. The battery is adequately charged for further
testing or return to service. If the starter will not
crank for a minimum of fifteen seconds with a fully-
charged battery, the battery must be load tested.
Refer to Standard Procedures for the proper battery
load test procedures.
²Black or Dark- Indicates 0% to 75% battery
state-of-charge. The battery is inadequately charged
and must be charged until a green indication is visi-
ble in the sight glass (12.4 volts or more), before the
battery is tested further or returned to service. Refer
to Standard Procedures for the proper battery charg-
ing procedures. Also refer to Diagnosis and Testing
for more information on the possible causes of the
discharged battery condition.
²Clear or Bright- Indicates a low battery elec-
trolyte level. The electrolyte level in the battery is
below the built-in indicator. A maintenance-free bat-
tery with non-removable cell caps must be replaced if
the electrolyte level is low. Water must be added to a
low-maintenance battery with removable cell caps
before it is charged. Refer to Standard Procedures for
the proper battery filling procedures. A low electro-
lyte level may be caused by an overcharging condi-
tion. Refer to Charging System for the proper
charging system diagnosis and testing procedures.
Fig. 6 Built-In Indicator
1 - SIGHT GLASS
2 - BATTERY TOP
3 - GREEN BALL
4 - PLASTIC ROD
8F - 10 BATTERY SYSTEMBR/BE
BATTERY (Continued)

OPERATION - HEATED MIRROR SYSTEM
The solid state electronic control logic and timer
circuitry for the heated mirror system receives bat-
tery current from a fuse in the Junction Block (JB)
only when the ignition switch is in the On or Start
positions. After the heated mirror system is turned
On, the electronic control logic and timer circuitry
will automatically turn the system off after a pro-
grammed time interval of about fifteen minutes.
After the initial time interval has expired, if the
heated mirror switch is depressed and released a sec-
ond time during the same ignition cycle, the elec-
tronic control logic and timer circuitry will
automatically turn the heated mirror system off after
a programmed time interval of about five minutes.
The heated mirror system will be shut off automati-
cally if the ignition switch is turned to the Off or
Accessory positions. After the heated mirror system
is turned On, it can also be turned off manually by
depressing and releasing the heated mirror switch a
second time.
When the heated mirror system is turned On, the
heated mirror system control logic and timer cir-
cuitry energizes the heated mirror system indicator
lamp and the heated mirror relay. When energized,
the heated mirror relay supplies fused ignition
switch output (run/start) current from a fuse in the
JB to the outside mirror heating grids located behind
the mirror glass of each of the outside rear view mir-
rors. When energized, each of the outside mirror
heating grids produces enough heat to warm the
glass of the outside rear view mirrors.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED MIRROR
SYSTEM
If only one of the outside mirror heating grids is
inoperative, perform continuity checks on the circuits
and heater grid for that mirror only. If both outside
mirror heating grids are inoperative, proceed with
the heated mirror system diagnosis as follows. (Refer
to Appropriate Wiring Information).
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.The operation of the heated mirror system can be
confirmed in one of the following manners:
²Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
While monitoring the instrument panel voltmeter,
momentarily depress and release the heated mirror
switch. When the heated mirror system is turned On,
a distinct voltmeter needle deflection should be
noted.
²Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Momentarily depress and release the heated mirror
switch to turn the heated mirror system On. The
heated mirror operation can be checked by feeling
the outside rear view mirror glass. A distinct differ-
ence in temperature between the unheated and
heated mirror glass can be detected within three to
four minutes of system operation.
The above checks will confirm system operation.
Illumination of the heated mirror system indicator
lamp means that there is electrical current available
at the heated mirror relay, but does not confirm that
the electrical current is reaching the outside mirror
heating grids.
If the heated mirror system does not operate, the
problem should be isolated in the following manner:
(1) Confirm that the ignition switch is in the On
position.
(2) Check the fuses in the Power Distribution Cen-
ter (PDC) and in the Junction Block (JB). The fuses
must be tight in their receptacles and all electrical
connections must be secure.
When the above steps have been completed and
both outside mirror heating grids are still inopera-
tive, one or more of the following is faulty:
²Heated mirror switch, electronic control logic
and timer circuitry, and heated mirror relay.
²Heated mirror wire harness circuits or connec-
tors.
²Outside mirror heating grid (both mirror grids
would have to be faulty).
If turning On the heated mirror system produces a
severe voltmeter deflection or fuse failures, check for
a shorted circuit between the output of the heated
mirror relay and the outside mirror heating grids.
MIRROR SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The heated mirror switch, the heated mirror sys-
tem indicator lamp, the heated mirror system solid
state electronic control logic and timer circuitry and
the heated mirror relay are all integral to the a/c
heater control, which is located between the instru-
ment cluster and the radio near the center of the
instrument cluster bezel on the instrument panel.
The heated mirror switch and the heated mirror sys-
8G - 2 HEATED MIRRORSBR/BE
HEATED MIRRORS (Continued)

tem indicator lamp are visible in the lower left corner
of the a/c heater control face plate (Fig. 2).
The heated mirror switch, the heated mirror sys-
tem indicator lamp, the heated mirror system solid
state electronic control logic and timer circuitry and
the heated mirror relay cannot be repaired. If any of
these components is damaged or faulty, the entire a/c
heater control must be replaced. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/A/C
HEATER CONTROL - REMOVAL)
OPERATION
The momentary-type heated mirror switch provides
a hard-wired battery current signal to the heated
mirror system electronic control logic circuitry each
time it is depressed. In response to the heated mirror
switch input, the electronic control logic and timer
circuitry energizes or de-energizes the amber heated
mirror system indicator lamp next to the heated mir-
ror switch to indicate that the heated mirror system
is turned On or Off. The electronic control logic and
timer circuitry also energizes or de-energizes the
heated mirror relay, which controls the feed of elec-
trical current to the outside mirror heating grids.
The heated mirror system electronic control logic
and timer circuitry is programmed to turn the heated
mirror system Off automatically after about fifteen
minutes of operation. If the heated mirror system is
turned On a second time following an initial time-out
event during the same ignition switch cycle, the
heated mirror system electronic control logic and
timer circuit is programmed to turn the system Offautomatically after about five minutes. When the
electronic control logic and timer circuit detects that
a programmed time interval has elapsed, it will auto-
matically de-energize the heated mirror system indi-
cator lamp and the heated mirror relay. The heated
mirror system will also be turned Off if the heated
mirror switch is depressed while the system is
turned On, or if the ignition switch is turned to the
Off or Accessory positions.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED MIRROR
SWITCH
The heated mirror switch, the solid state electronic
heated mirror system control logic and timer cir-
cuitry, the heated mirror system indicator lamp and
the heated mirror relay are all integral to the a/c
heater control. For circuit descriptions and diagrams
(Refer to Appropriate Wiring Information).
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 ignition switch output (run/
start) fuse in the Junction Block (JB). If OK, go to
Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or com-
ponent as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) fuse in the JB. If OK, go to Step 3.
If not OK, repair the open circuit to the ignition
switch as required.
(3) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the 3-way instrument panel wire
harness connector for the heated mirror switch from
the heated mirror switch connector receptacle on the
back of the a/c heater control. Check for continuity
between the ground circuit cavity of the wire harness
connector and a good ground. There should be conti-
nuity. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open
ground circuit to ground as required.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Turn the
ignition switch to the On position. Check for battery
voltage at the fused ignition switch output (run/start)
circuit cavity of the 3-way instrument panel wire
Fig. 2 HEATED MIRROR SWITCH
1 - A/C HEATER CONTROL
2 - HEATED MIRROR SWITCH
3 - HEATED MIRROR SYSTEM INDICATOR LAMP
BR/BEHEATED MIRRORS 8G - 3
MIRROR SWITCH (Continued)

harness connector for the heated mirror switch. If
OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the open fused
ignition switch output (run/start) circuit to the fuse
in the JB as required.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Reconnect the 3-way instrument panel wire harness
connector for the heated mirror switch to the heated
mirror switch connector receptacle on the back of the
a/c heater control. Reconnect the battery negative
cable. Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Depress and release the heated mirror switch. The
amber heated mirror system indicator lamp next to
the heated mirror switch button should light. If OK,
go to Step 6. If not OK, replace the faulty a/c heater
control.
(6) Back probe the fused heated mirror relay out-
put circuit cavity of the 3-way instrument panel wire
harness connector for the heated mirror switch on
the back of the a/c heater control and check for volt-
age (battery voltage less the resistance in both out-
side mirror heating grids). If OK, (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED MIRRORS/HEATED MIR-
ROR GRID - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
HEATED MIRROR GRID
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with the optional heated mirror
system have an electrically operated heating grid
located behind the mirror glass of each power oper-
ated outside rear view mirror. The outside mirror
heating grid consists of two thin laminations of plas-
tic that approximate the outer dimensions and shape
of the mirror glass. A single length of resistor wire
weaves in a back and forth pattern between, and is
held in place by the two thin laminations of plastic.
The two ends of the resistor wire terminate near the
inboard edge of the grid, where they are soldered to
the ground feed and battery current feed wires con-
tained in the power mirror wire harness. The heating
grid is then sandwiched between the back of the
molded plastic mirror glass case and the mirror
glass, where it remains in direct contact with the
back of the mirror glass at all times.
The outside mirror heating grids cannot be
repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire outside
power mirror unit must be replaced. Refer to Power
Mirrors for the service procedures.
OPERATION
One end of the outside mirror heating grid resistor
wire is connected to a ground feed at all times
through a body ground screw located inside the left
rear corner of the truck cab. Battery current is
directed to the other end of the outside mirror heat-
ing grid resistor wire by the energized heated mirror
relay when the heated mirror switch is in the On
position. As electrical current passes through the
heating grid, the resistance of the wire in the heating
grid converts some of that electrical current into
heat. The heat produced by the heating grid is then
conducted through the back of the mirror glass to
help keep the glass clear of ice, snow or fog.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED MIRROR
GRID
For circuit descriptions and diagrams (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the door wire harness connector
from the power mirror wire harness connector at the
power mirror with the inoperative heating grid.
Check for continuity between the ground circuit cav-
ity in the door wire harness connector for the power
mirror and a good ground. If OK, go to Step 2. If not
OK, repair the open ground circuit to ground as
required.
(2) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Turn the
ignition switch to the On position. Turn on the
heated mirror system. Check for voltage (battery
voltage less the resistance in the outside mirror heat-
ing grid that is still connected) at the fused heated
mirror relay output circuit cavity in the door wire
harness connector for the power mirror. If OK, go to
Step 3. If not OK, repair the open fused heated mir-
ror relay output circuit to the heater and air condi-
tioner control unit as required.
(3) Check the outside mirror heating grid by test-
ing for continuity between the ground circuit and the
fused heated mirror relay output circuit cavities in
the power mirror wire harness connector. There
should be continuity. If not OK, replace the faulty
power mirror. If OK, check the resistance through
the outside mirror heating grid. The correct resis-
tance should be from 10 to 16 ohms when measured
at an ambient temperature of 21É C (70É F). If not
OK, replace the faulty power mirror.
8G - 4 HEATED MIRRORSBR/BE
MIRROR SWITCH (Continued)

HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................5
OPERATION............................6
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SYSTEM.............................6
DRIVER SEAT HEATER SWITCH
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................8
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SWITCH.............................8
REMOVAL.............................9
INSTALLATION.........................10
HEATED SEAT ELEMENT
DESCRIPTION.........................10
OPERATION...........................11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
ELEMENT AND SENSOR................11REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................13
HEATED SEAT RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................15
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
RELAY..............................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
PASSENGER SEAT HEATER SWITCH
DESCRIPTION.........................16
OPERATION...........................17
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SWITCH............................17
REMOVAL.............................18
INSTALLATION.........................19
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
Individually controlled electrically heated front
seats are available factory-installed optional equip-
ment on the Ram quad cab models that are also
equipped with the optional SLT Plus (leather) trim
package. Vehicles with this option can be visually
identified by the two separate heated seat switches
mounted in a bezel located in the lower right corner
of the instrument cluster bezel, next to the radio
receiver (Fig. 1). The heated seat system allows the
front seat driver and passenger to select from two
different levels of supplemental electrical seat heat-
ing, or no seat heating to suit their individual com-
fort requirements. The heated seat system for this
vehicle includes the following major components,
which are described in further detail later in this sec-
tion:
²Heated Seat Switches- Two heated seat
switches are used per vehicle, including two Light-
Emitting Diode (LED) indicator lamps and an incan-
descent back lighting bulb for each switch. One
switch for the driver and one for the passenger front
seats. The switches are mounted in the instrument
panel, next to the radio.
²Heated Seat Module- also referred to as the
Seat Heat Interface Module (SHIM), this module con-
tains the solid state electronic control and diagnostic
logic circuitry for the heated seat system. One heated
seat module is used per vehicle and is mounted
under the center front seat cushion. Refer to the
Electronic Control Modules section of the service
manual for heated seat module information.
Fig. 1 Heated Seat System Switches
1 - Radio Receiver
2 - Heated Seat Switches
BR/BEHEATED SEAT SYSTEM 8G - 5

²Heated Seat Elements- Four heated seat ele-
ments are used per vehicle, one for each front seat
back and one for each front seat cushion. The ele-
ments are integral to the individual front seat and
seat back cushions and cannot be removed once
installed at the factory. Service replacement seat
heating elements are available, without having to
replace the entire seat cushion or trim cover. Refer to
the procedure in this section.
²Heated Seat Sensors- Two heated seat sen-
sors are used per vehicle, one for each front seat. The
sensors are integral to the individual front seat heat-
ing elements and cannot be removed once installed at
the factory. Service replacement seat heating ele-
ments with the sensors are available, without having
to replace the entire seat cushion or trim cover. Refer
to the procedure in this section.
²Heated Seat Relay- The heated seat relay
controls the battery voltage and current supply to the
heated seat module and the rest of the heated seat
system. The heated seat relay is mounted in the
junction block and is not different than the other
relays used throughout the vehicle. Refer to the
Power Distribution section of the service manual for
more information on standard ISO relays.
Following are general descriptions of the major
components in the heated seat system. See the own-
er's manual in the vehicle glove box for more infor-
mation on the features, use and operation of the
heated seat system. Refer toWiring Diagramsfor
the location of complete heated seat system wiring
diagrams.
OPERATION
The heated seat module receives fused battery cur-
rent through the energized heated seat relay in the
Junction Block (JB) only when the engine is running.
The heated seat switches receive battery current
through fuse #2 in the Junction Block only when the
ignition switch is in the On position. The heated seat
module shares a common ground circuit with each of
the heated seat elements. The heated seat elements
will only operate when the surface temperature of
the seat cushion is below the designed temperature
set points of the system.
The heated seat system will also be turned off
automatically whenever the ignition switch is turned
to any position except On or if the engine quits run-
ning. If the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion or if the engine quits running while a heated
seat is turned ON, the heated seat will remain Off
after the engine is restarted until a heated seat
switch is depressed again.
The heated seat module monitors inputs from the
heated seat sensors and the heated seat switches. In
response to these inputs the heated seat module usesits internal programming to control outputs to the
heated seat elements in both front seats and to con-
trol the heated seat LED indicator lamps located in
both of the heated seat switches. The heated seat
module is also programmed to provide a self-diagnos-
tic capability. When the module detects certain fail-
ures within the heated seat system, it will provide a
visual indication of the failure by flashing the indica-
tor lamps in the heated seat switches. The heated
seat module will automatically turn off the heated
seat elements if it detects a short or open in the
heated seat element circuit or a heated seat sensor
value that is out of range.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SYSTEM
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM SELF-DIAGNOSIS
The heated seat system is capable of performing
some self-diagnostics. The following table depicts the
various monitored failures which will be reported to
the vehicle operator or technician by flashing the
individual heated seat switch Light Emitting Diode
(LED) indicator lamps. Refer to the Heated Seat Sys-
tem Self-Diagnosis table for failure identification.
The driver side heated seat switch indicator lamps
will flash if a failure occurs in the driver side heated
seat, and the passenger side heated seat switch indi-
cator lamps will flash for a passenger side heated
seat failure. If a monitored heated seat system fail-
ure occurs, the switch indicator lamps will flash at a
pulse rate of about one-half second on, followed by
about one-half second off for a duration of about one
minute after the switch for the faulty heated seat is
depressed in either the Low or High direction. This
process will repeat every time the faulty heated seat
switch is actuated until the problem has been cor-
rected.
Heated Seat System Self-Diagnosis
Monitored FailureSwitch High
Indicator LampSwitch Low
Indicator Lamp
Heated Seat
Element ShortedFlashing Flashing
Heated Seat
Element OpenFlashing Off
Heated Seat
Sensor Value Out
of RangeOff Flashing
8G - 6 HEATED SEAT SYSTEMBR/BE
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM (Continued)