message systems DODGE RAM 2003 Service User Guide

The electronic compass unit features a self-cali-
brating design, which simplifies the calibration pro-
cedure. This feature automatically updates the
compass calibration while the vehicle is being driven.
This allows the compass unit to compensate for small
changes in the residual magnetism that the vehicle
may acquire during normal use. If the compass read-
ings appear to be erratic or out of calibration, per-
form the following calibration procedure. Also, new
service replacement Electronic Modules (EVIC,
CMTC) must have their compass calibrated using
this procedure. Do not attempt to calibrate the com-
pass near large metal objects such as other vehicles,
large buildings, or bridges; or, near overhead or
underground power lines.
NOTE: Whenever the compass is calibrated manu-
ally, the variance number must also be reset. Refer
to Compass Variation Adjustment in this group.
To calibrate the compass manually proceed as fol-
lows:
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the C/T
push button to reach the compass/temperature dis-
play.
(2) Depress the RESET push button and hold the
button down until ªCALº appears in the display. This
takes about ten seconds, and appears about five sec-
onds after ªVAR = XXº is displayed.
(3) Release the RESET push button.
(4) Drive the vehicle on a level surface, away from
large metal objects and power lines, through three or
more complete turns at between five and eight kilo-
meters-per-hour (three and five miles-per-hour) in
not less than 48 seconds. The ªCALº message will
disappear from the display to indicate that the com-
pass is now calibrated.
NOTE: If the ªCALº message remains in the display,
either there is excessive magnetism near the com-
pass, or the unit is faulty. Repeat the calibration
procedure one more time.
NOTE: If the wrong direction is still indicated in the
compass display, the area selected for calibration
may be too close to a strong magnetic field. Repeat
the calibration procedure in another location.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
DEMAGNETIZING
A degaussing tool (Special Tool 6029) is used to
demagnetize, or degauss, the overhead console for-
ward mounting screw and the roof panel above theoverhead console. Equivalent units must be rated as
continuous duty for 110/115 volts and 60 Hz. They
must also have a field strength of over 350 gauss at 7
millimeters (0.25 inch) beyond the tip of the probe.
To demagnetize the roof panel and the overhead
console forward mounting screw, proceed as follows:
(1) Be certain that the ignition switch is in the Off
position, before you begin the demagnetizing proce-
dure.
(2) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(3) Slowly approach the head of the overhead con-
sole mounting screw with the degaussing tool con-
nected.
(4) Contact the head of the screw with the plastic
coated tip of the degaussing tool for about two sec-
onds.
(5) With the degaussing tool still energized, slowly
back it away from the screw. When the tip of the tool
is at least 61 centimeters (2 feet) from the screw
head, disconnect the tool.
(6) Place a piece of paper approximately 22 by 28
centimeters (8.5 by 11 inches), oriented on the vehicle
lengthwise from front to rear, on the center line of
the roof at the windshield header (Fig. 3). The pur-
pose of the paper is to protect the roof panel from
scratches, and to define the area to be demagnetized.
(7) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(8) Slowly approach the center line of the roof
panel at the windshield header, with the degaussing
tool connected.
(9) Contact the roof panel with the plastic coated
tip of the degaussing tool. Be sure that the template
is in place to avoid scratching the roof panel. Using a
slow, back-and-forth sweeping motion, and allowing
13 millimeters (0.50 inch) between passes, move the
tool at least 11 centimeters (4 inches) to each side of
the roof center line, and 28 centimeters (11 inches)
back from the windshield header.
(10) With the degaussing tool still energized,
slowly back it away from the roof panel. When the
tip of the tool is at least 61 centimeters (2 feet) from
the roof panel, disconnect the tool.
(11) Calibrate the compass and adjust the compass
variance (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD
CONSOLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
VARIATION ADJUSTMENT
Compass variance, also known as magnetic decli-
nation, is the difference in angle between magnetic
north and true geographic north. In some geographic
locations, the difference between magnetic and geo-
8M - 4 MESSAGE SYSTEMSDR
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

graphic north is great enough to cause the compass
to give false readings. If this problem occurs, the
compass variance setting may need to be changed.
To set the compass variance:
(1) Using the Variance Settings map, find your
geographic location and note the zone number (Fig.
4).
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the C/T
push button to reach the compass/temperature dis-
play.
(3) Depress theRESETpush button and hold the
button down until ªVAR = XXº appears in the display.
This takes about five seconds.(4) Release theRESETpush button. ªVAR =XX º
will remain in the display. ªXXº equals the current
variance zone setting.
(5) Depress and release theSTEPpush button to
step through the zone numbers, until the zone num-
ber for your geographic location appears in the dis-
play.
(6) Depress and release theRESETpush button
to enter the displayed zone number into the EVIC/
CMTC module memory.
(7) Confirm that the correct directions are now
indicated by the compass.
REMOVAL
OVERHEAD CONSOLE REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console retaining screws,
located in the sunglass storage bin.
(3) Using your fingertips, grasp the sides of the
overhead console and pull straight down evenly to
disengage the two snap clips at the front of the unit.
(4) Lower the overhead console far enough to
access the wire harness connectors.
(5) Disconnect the EVIC, CMTC electronic module
and the reading/courtesy lamps electrical connectors.
(6) Remove the overhead console from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the overhead console in the vehicle.
(2) Connect the EVIC, CMTC electronic module
and the reading/courtesy lamps electrical connectors.
(3) Grasp the sides of the overhead console and
push straight up evenly to engage the two snap clips
at the rear of the unit.
(4) Install the overhead console retaining screw,
located in the front of console. Torque the screw to
1.2 N´m (10 in. lbs.).
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
Fig. 3 Roof Demagnetizing Pattern
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 5
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

SPECIAL TOOLS
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER
DESCRIPTION
The Compass Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC) is a
module located in the overhead console. The CMTC is
equipped with a mini-trip feature. The CMTC con-
sists of a electronic control module with a vacuum
fluorescent display (VFD) and function switches. The
CMTC consists of a electronic module that displays
compass, trip computer, and temperature features.
Actuating the STEP push button will cause the
CMTC to change mode of operation when the ignition
is ON. Example:
²Average miles per gallon (ECO)
²Distance to empty (DTE)
²Trip odometer (ODO)²Elapsed time (ET)
²Off
Actuating the C/T push button will cause the
CMTC to change to Compass/Temperature display.
Fig. 4 Variance Settings
DEGAUSSING TOOL #6029
RADIO FREQUENCY DETECTOR #9001
8M - 6 MESSAGE SYSTEMSDR
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

OPERATION
The Compass Mini-Trip Computer module in the
overhead console has buttons used to select various
functions. The CMTC selector buttons will not oper-
ate until the ignition is in the RUN position.
When the ignition switch is first turned to the
RUN position the CMTC display;
²Returns to the last mode setting selected before
the ignition was last switched OFF.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPASS
MINI-TRIP COMPUTER
Compass Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC) data is
obtained from other electronic modules (CCN, FCM
and JTEC) on the J1850 Data Bus circuit. The
CMTC will display dashes (- -) for any of the screens
it did not receive the bus messages. The label corre-
sponding to the missing information will be lit. If no
compass mini-trip computer data is displayed, check
the J1850 Data Bus circuit communications and the
other modules.
Refer to Overhead Console Diagnosis and Testing
for instructions on performing a CMTC module Self-
Diagnostic Test. The DRB IIItis recommended for
checking the J1850 Data Bus circuit and the other
modules. Perform the CMTC self diagnosis before
replacing the CMTC module.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console from the headlin-
er.(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CON-
SOLE - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the screws holding Compass Mini-Trip
Computer module in the overhead console (Fig. 5).
(4) Disconnect the CMTC module electrical connec-
tor. Depress the retaining tab and pull straight
apart.
(5) Remove CMTC module from console assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule in the overhead console.
(2) Install the screws holding the compass mini-
trip computer module in the overhead console.
(3) Connect the module electrical connector.
(4) Install the overhead console on the headlin-
er(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CON-
SOLE - INSTALLATION).
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
(6) Check CMTC module function.
NOTE: If a new module has been installed, the com-
pass will have to be calibrated and the variance set.
Refer to Compass Variation Adjustment and Com-pass Calibration in the Standard Procedures sec-
tion of this group for the procedures.
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFO
CENTER
DESCRIPTION
The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
is a module located in the overhead console on some
models. The EVIC module features a large Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) screen for displaying
information, and back-lit push button switches
labeled C/T (compass/temperature), RESET, STEP,
and MENU.
The EVIC module contains a central processing
unit and interfaces with other electronic modules in
the vehicle over the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) J1850 data bus circuit. The PCI data
bus circuit allows the sharing of sensor information.
This helps to reduce wire harness complexity, reduce
internal controller hardware, and reduce component
sensor current loads. At the same time, this system
provides increased reliability, enhanced diagnostics,
and allows the addition of many new feature capabil-
ities.
The EVIC ªMenuº push button provides the vehicle
operator with a user interface, which allows the
selection of several optional customer programmable
electronic features to suit individual preferences.
Fig. 5 OVERHEAD CONSOLE MODULE REMOVAL
1 - COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER MODULE
2 - OVERHEAD CONSOLE
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 7
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

Refer toELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMA-
TION CENTER PROGRAMMINGin the Standard
Procedures section of this group for more information
on the customer programmable feature options.
If the vehicle is equipped with the optional univer-
sal transmitter transceiver, the EVIC will also dis-
play messages and an icon indicating when the
universal transmitter transceiver is being trained,
which of the three transmitter buttons is transmit-
ting, and when the transceiver is cleared.
Data input for all EVIC functions, including VFD
dimming level, is received through the J1850 PCI
data bus circuit. The EVIC module uses its internal
programming and all of its data inputs to calculate
and display the requested data. If the data displayed
is incorrect, perform the self-diagnostic tests as
described in this group. If these tests prove inconclu-
sive, the use of a DRB IIItscan tool and the proper
Diagnostic Procedures manual are recommended for
further testing of the EVIC module and the J1850
PCI data bus circuit.
The EVIC module cannot be repaired, and is avail-
able for service only as a unit. If any part is faulty or
damaged, the complete EVIC module must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The Electronic Vehicle Information Center is wired
to both constant 12v and ignition switched sources of
battery current so that some of its features remain
operational at any time, while others may only oper-
ate with the ignition switch in the On position. When
the ignition switch is turned to the On position, the
EVIC module display will return to the last function
being displayed before the ignition was turned to the
Off position.
The compass/temperature display is the normal
EVIC display. With the ignition switch in the On
position, momentarily depressing and releasing the
C/T (compass/temperature) push button switch will
cause the EVIC to return to the compass/tempera-
ture display mode from any other mode. While in the
compass/temperature display mode, momentarily
depressing and releasing the Step push button will
step through the available trip computer display
options.
The EVIC trip computer features several functions
that can be reset. The functions that can be reset
are: average fuel economy, trip odometer and elapsed
time. With the ignition switch in the On position and
with one of the functions of the trip computer that
can be reset currently displayed, depressing the
Reset push button twice within three seconds will
perform a global reset, and all of the trip computer
information that can be reset will be reset to zero.
With the ignition switch in the On position and thefunction that is to be reset currently displayed,
momentarily depressing and releasing the Reset
push button once will perform a local reset, and only
the value of the displayed function will be reset to
zero. A global or local reset will only occur if the
function currently displayed is a function that can be
reset. The distance to service function can also be
reset using the local reset method, but it will reset
back to the Service Interval distance that is set in
the EVIC programmable features mode. Refer to
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CEN-
TER PROGRAMMINGin the Standard Procedures
section of this group for more information on setting
the Service Interval.
For more information on the features, control func-
tions and setting procedures for the EVIC module,
see the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ELECTRONIC
VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) data
is obtained from other electronic modules (CCN,
FCM, JTEC) on the J1850 Data Bus circuit. The
EVIC will display dashes (- -) for any of the screens
it did not receive the bus messages. The label corre-
sponding to the missing information will be lit. If no
EVIC data is displayed, check the J1850 Data Bus
circuit communications and the other modules. If the
brightness level is improper check the J1850 Data
Bus circuit.
Refer to Overhead Console Diagnosis and Testing
for instructions on performing a EVIC module Self-
Diagnostic Test. The DRB IIItis recommended for
checking the J1850 Data Bus circuit and other mod-
ules. Perform the EVIC self diagnosis before replac-
ing the EVIC module.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ELECTRONIC
VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER
PROGRAMMING
EVIC PROGRAMMING MODE
Some vehicles are equipped with a Electronic Vehi-
cle Information Center (EVIC) equipped overhead
console. The Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) provides the vehicle operator with a user
interface, which allows the selection of several
optional customer programmable electronic features
to suit individual preferences. The EVIC must be
placed into its programming mode in order to view or
change the programmable features. To enter the
EVIC programming mode and to view or change the
selected programmable features options, proceed as
follows:
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
8M - 8 MESSAGE SYSTEMSDR
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFO CENTER (Continued)

(2) Momentarily depress and release the Menu
push button to step through the programmable fea-
tures list. Each programmable feature and its cur-
rently selected option will appear on the EVIC
display in the sequence shown in the Programmable
Features list that follows.
(3) Momentarily depress and release the Step push
button to step through the available options for the
programmable feature being displayed.
(4) The option that last appears in the display
with a programmable feature before exiting the pro-
gramming mode, becomes the newly selected pro-
grammable feature option.
(5) The EVIC exits the programming mode and
returns to its normal operating mode when the C/T
push button is depressed or when the end of the pro-
grammable features menu list is reached, whichever
occurs first.
PROGRAMMABLE FEATURES
²LANGUAGE?- The options include English,
Francaise, Deutsch, Italiana, or Espanol. The default
is English. All EVIC display nomenclature, including
the trip computer functions, warning messages and
the programmable features appear in the selected
language.
²DISPLAY U.S. OR METRIC?- The options
include U.S. and M. The default is U.S. This feature
toggles the trip computer temperature, fuel economy
and odometer display readings between U.S. and
metric units of measure.
²SERVICE INTV. =- The options include from
3200 to 12000 kilometers in 800 kilometer incre-
ments (2000 to 6000 miles in 500 mile increments).
The default is 12000 kilometers (6000 miles). The
selected distance becomes the interval at which the
Perform Service warning message will be displayed
by the EVIC. If a new distance is selected, a second
programmable feature appears,RESET SERVICE
DISTANCE?- The options include No and Yes. The
default is Yes. When Yes is selected, the accumulated
distance since the last previous Perform Service
warning message will be reset to zero because the
service interval has been changed. When No is
selected, the distance until the next Perform Service
warning message is reduced by the accumulated dis-
tance since the last previous message.
²AUTO DOOR LOCKS?- The options include
Yes and No. The default is Yes. When Yes is selected,
all doors lock automatically when vehicle speed
reaches 25 kilometers-per-hour (15 miles-per-hour). If
YES is selected, a second programmable feature
appears,AUTO UNLOCK ON EXIT?- The options
again include Yes and No. The default is No. When
Yes is selected, following each Auto Door Lock event
all doors will automatically unlock when the driverdoor is opened, if the vehicle is stopped and the
transmission gear selector is in Park or Neutral. The
Auto Door Unlock event will only occur once follow-
ing each Auto Door Lock event.
²REMOTE UNLOCK- The options include
Driver Door 1st and All Doors. The default is Driver
Door 1st. When Diver Door 1st is selected, only the
driver door unlocks when the Unlock button of the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is
depressed once. The Unlock button of the RKE trans-
mitter must be depressed twice to unlock all doors.
When All Doors is selected, all doors unlock when the
Unlock button of the RKE transmitter is depressed
once.
²SOUND HORN ON LOCK?- The options
include On and Off. The default is No. When Yes is
selected, a short horn chirp will provide an audible
confirmation when the RKE receiver recognizes a
valid Lock signal from an RKE transmitter. When No
is selected, no horn chirp will occur with the RKE
Lock event. This feature may be selected indepen-
dent of theFLASH LIGHTS WITH LOCKS?pro-
grammable feature.
²FLASH LIGHTS WITH LOCKS?- The options
include Yes and No. The default is Yes. When Yes is
selected, a single flash of the hazard warning lamps
will provide an optical confirmation when the RKE
receiver recognizes a valid Lock signal from an RKE
transmitter, and two flashes of the same lamps will
occur when the RKE receiver recognizes a valid
Unlock signal from an RKE transmitter. When No is
selected, no lamp flash will occur with the RKE Lock
or Unlock event. This feature may be selected inde-
pendent of theSOUND HORN ON LOCK?pro-
grammable feature.
²HEADLAMP DELAY =- The options include
Off, 30 Sec, 60 Sec, and 90 Sec. The default is 90 Sec.
When a time interval is selected, the headlamps will
remain on for that length of time when the head-
lamps are turned off after the ignition is turned off,
or if the Auto mode is selected on vehicles with the
Auto Headlamps option. When Off is selected, the
headlamp delay feature is disabled.
²TRAIN REMOTE- When this feature is
selected the driver can choose to train up to four
remote keyless entry transmitters. The options
include Yes and No. The default is No. When Yes is
selected and the MENU button is pressed the EVIC
will display ªPRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK
THEN PRESS UNLOCKº, followed by a chime to
indicate the training sequence can commence. You
have approximately 30 seconds to train up to four
transmitters, after each transmitter is trained a
chime will sound indicating that the training was
successful. If remote link to memory is ªYESº , the
first transmitter trained will be associated with
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 9
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFO CENTER (Continued)

memory setting 1 and the second transmitter trained
will be associated with memory setting 2. Additional
transmitters will not be associated with a memory
setting. When you have finished training the trans-
mitters, press the menu button again and the EVIC
will display ªTRAIN DONE ªXº TRAINED. If no
transmitters are trained within approximately 30
seconds the EVIC will display ªTRAIN TIMEOUTº.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console from the headlin-
er.(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CON-
SOLE - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the EVIC module electrical connec-
tor. Depress the retaining tab and pull straight
apart.
(4) Remove the screws holding the EVIC module in
the overhead console (Fig. 6).
(5) Remove EVIC module from console assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the EVIC module in the overhead con-
sole.
(2) Install the screws holding the EVIC module in
the overhead console.
(3) Connect the EVIC module electrical connector.(4) Install the overhead console on the headlin-
er(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVERHEAD CON-
SOLE - INSTALLATION).
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
(6) Check EVIC module function.
NOTE: If a new EVIC module has been installed, the
compass will have to be calibrated and the variance
set. Refer to Compass Variation Adjustment and
Compass Calibration in the Standard Procedures
section of this group for the procedures.
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the over-
head console. The ambient temperature messages are
received from the Front Control Module (FCM) over
the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI)
J1850 data bus circuit. The FCM receives a hard
wired input from the ambient temperature sensor
(Fig. 7). The ambient temperature sensor is a vari-
able resistor mounted to the underside of the hood,
in the engine compartment.
For more information on the front control module,
refer toFront Control Modulein the Electronic
Control Modules section of this manual. For complete
circuit diagrams, refer toWiring. The ambient tem-
perature sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and,
if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable
resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal
sent to it by the Front Control Module. The resis-
tance in the sensor changes as temperature changes,
changing the temperature sensor signal circuit volt-
age to the Front Control Module. Based upon the
resistance in the sensor, the Front Control Module
senses a specific voltage on the temperature sensor
signal circuit, which it is programmed to correspond
to a specific temperature. The Front Control Module
Fig. 6 OVERHEAD CONSOLE MODULE REMOVAL
1 - ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION MODULE
2 - OVERHEAD CONSOLE
Fig. 7 Ambient Temperature Sensor - Typical
8M - 10 MESSAGE SYSTEMSDR
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFO CENTER (Continued)

then sends the proper ambient temperature mes-
sages to the EVIC, CMTC over the PCI J1850 data
bus.
The temperature function is supported by the
ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, the
Front Control Module, the Programmable Communi-
cations Interface (PCI) data bus, and a portion of the
Electronics module. If any portion of the ambient
temperature sensor circuit fails, the Front Control
Module will self-diagnose the circuit.
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toWiring.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
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 24É C (75É F), the sensor resistance
should be approximately 10.3 kilohms. At 30É C (86É
F), the sensor resistance should be approximately
7.57 kilohms. The sensor resistance should decrease
as the temperature rises. If OK, refer toDiagnosis
and Testing - Ambient Temperature Sensor Cir-
cuitin this group. If not OK, replace the faulty
ambient temperature sensor.
NOTE: The ambient temperature sensor is a very
sensitive device. When testing, be certain the tem-
perature sensor has had time to stabilize (room
temperature) before attempting to read the sensor
resistance. Failure to let the ambient temperature
sensor temperature stabilize could result in a mis-
leading test.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 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 Front Control Module wire
harness connector.
(2) Connect a jumper wire between the two termi-
nals of the ambient temperature sensor wire harness
connector.
(3) Check for continuity between the sensor return
circuit and the ambient temperature sensor signal
circuit cavities of the Front Control Module wire har-
ness connector. There should be continuity. If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open sensor return or
signal circuit as required.(4) Remove the jumper wire from the ambient tem-
perature sensor wire harness connector. Check for
continuity between the sensor return circuit cavity of
the Front Control Module wire harness connector
and a good ground. There should be no continuity. If
OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the shorted sen-
sor return circuit as required.
(5) Check for continuity between the ambient tem-
perature sensor signal circuit cavity of the Front
Control Module wire harness connector and a good
ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, refer to
Diagnosis and Testing - Overhead Consolein
this group. If not OK, repair the shorted ambient
temperature sensor signal circuit as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Open the hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Working on the underside of the hood, remove
screw holding sensor to hood panel.
(4) Disconnect the sensor electrical connector and
remove sensor from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Connect the sensor electrical connector.
(2) Working on the underside of the hood, install
screw holding sensor to hood panel.
(3) Connect the battery negative cable.
(4) Close the hood.
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER
DESCRIPTION
Some DR models are equipped with a universal
transmitter transceiver. The universal transmitter is
integral to the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) and the Compass Mini-Trip Computer
(CMTC), which is located in the overhead console.
The only visible component of the universal transmit-
ter are the three transmitter push buttons centered
between the modules push buttons located just rear-
ward of the display screen in the overhead console.
The three universal transmitter push buttons are
identified with one, two or three light indicators so
that they be easily identified.
Each of the three universal transmitter push but-
tons control 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-
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 11
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR (Continued)

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:
²Clearing Channels- Indicates that all of the
transmitter codes stored in the universal transmitter
have been successfully cleared.
²Channel ªXº Training- Indicates that the uni-
versal transmitter is in its transmitter learning
mode.
²Channel ªXº Trained- Indicates that the uni-
versal transmitter has successfully acquired a new
transmitter code.
²Channel ªXº Transmitting- 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 part of the universal trans-
mitter is faulty or damaged, the complete EVIC or
CMTC module must be replaced.
OPERATION
The universal transmitter operates on a non-
switched source of battery current so the unit will
remain functional, regardless of the ignition switch
position. For more information on the features, pro-
gramming procedures and operation of the universal
transmitter, see the owner's manual in the vehicle
glove box.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - UNIVERSAL
TRANSMITTER
If the Universal Transmitter is inoperative, but the
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) is oper-
ating normally, see the owner's manual in the vehicle
glove box for instructions on training the Transmit-
ter. Retrain the Transmitter with a known good
transmitter as instructed in the owner's manual and
test the Transmitter operation again. If the unit is
still inoperative, test the universal transmitter with
Radio Frequency Detector special tool. If both the
Transmitter and the EVIC module are inoperative,
refer toElectronic Vehicle Information Center
Diagnosis and Testingin this group for further
diagnosis. For complete circuit diagrams, refer to
Wiring Diagrams. (Fig. 8) as described below:
(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.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - 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.
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-
Fig. 8 RADIO FREQUENCY DETECTOR
1 - SIGNAL DETECTION LED'S
2 - POWER LED
3 - ON/OFF SWITCH
4 - 9V BATTERY
8M - 12 MESSAGE SYSTEMSDR
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER (Continued)

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.REMOVAL
(1) For universal transmitter removal and installa-
tion procedure, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVER-
HEAD CONSOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER - REMOVAL and INSTALLATION).
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 13
UNIVERSAL TRANSMITTER (Continued)