Ignition switch DODGE RAM 2003 Service Owner's Guide

Starting System Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER ENGAGES,
SPINS OUT BEFORE
ENGINE STARTS.1. Starter ring gear faulty. 1. Refer to Starter Motor Removal and Installation.
Remove starter motor to inspect starter ring gear.
Replace starter ring gear if required.
2. Starter motor faulty. 2. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor assembly.
STARTER DOES NOT
DISENGAGE.1. Starter motor
improperly installed.1. Refer to Starter Motor Removal and Installation.
Tighten starter mounting hardware to correct torque
specifications.
2. Starter relay faulty. 2. Refer to Starter Relay Diagnosis and Testing. Replace
starter relay if required.
3. Ignition switch faulty. 3. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.
Replace ignition switch if required.
4. Starter motor faulty. 4. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor.
INSPECTION
For complete starter wiring circuit diagrams, refer
to 8, Wiring Diagrams. Before removing any unit
from starting system for repair or diagnosis, perform
the following inspections:
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO 8, PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYS-
TEMS, BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
²Battery- Visually inspect battery for indica-
tions of physical damage and loose or corroded cable
connections. Determine state-of-charge and cranking
capacity of battery. Charge or replace battery if
required. Refer toBatteryin 8, Battery.Note: If
equipped with diesel engine, a dual battery sys-
tem may be used, and both batteries must be
inspected.
²Ignition Switch- Visually inspect ignition
switch for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections. Refer toIgni-
tion Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.
²Clutch Pedal Position Switch- If equipped
with manual transmission, visually inspect clutch
pedal position switch for indications of physical dam-
age and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
Refer toClutch Pedal Position Switchin 6,
Clutch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- If equipped
with automatic transmission, visually inspect park/
neutral position switch for indications of physical
damage and loose or corroded wire harness connec-tions. Refer toPark/Neutral Position Switchin
21, Transmission.
²Starter Relay- Visually inspect starter relay
for indications of physical damage and loose or cor-
roded wire harness connections.
²Starter Motor- Visually inspect starter motor
for indications of physical damage and loose or cor-
roded wire harness connections.
²Starter Solenoid- Visually inspect starter sole-
noid for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.
²Wiring- Visually inspect wire harnesses for
damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as
required. Refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams.
TESTING
COLD CRANKING TEST
For complete starter wiring circuit diagrams, refer
to 8, Wiring Diagrams. The battery must be fully-
charged and load-tested before proceeding. Refer to
Batteryin 8, Battery.
(1) Connect volt-ampere tester to battery terminals
(Fig. 1). See instructions provided by manufacturer of
volt-ampere tester being used.Note: Certain diesel
equipped models use dual batteries. If equipped
with dual battery system, tester should be con-
nected to battery on left side of vehicle only.
Also, tester current reading must be taken from
positive battery cable lead that connects to
starter motor.
(2) Fully engage parking brake.
(3) If equipped with manual transmission, place
gearshift selector lever in Neutral position and block
clutch pedal in fully depressed position. If equipped
8F - 30 STARTINGDR
STARTING (Continued)

with automatic transmission, place gearshift selector
lever in Park position.
(4) Verify that all lamps and accessories are
turned off.
(5) To prevent a gasoline engine from starting,
remove Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. To prevent
a diesel engine from starting, remove Fuel Pump
Relay. These relays are located in Power Distribution
Center (PDC). Refer to label on PDC cover for relay
location.
WARNING: IF EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINE,
ATTEMPT TO START ENGINE A FEW TIMES
BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH FOLLOWING STEP.
(6) Rotate and hold ignition switch in Start posi-
tion. Note cranking voltage and current (amperage)
draw readings shown on volt-ampere tester.
(a) If voltage reads below 9.6 volts, refer to
Starter Motorin Diagnosis and Testing. If starter
motor is OK, refer toEngine Diagnosisin 9,
Engine for further testing of engine. If starter
motor is not OK, replace faulty starter motor.
(b) If voltage reads above 9.6 volts and current
(amperage) draw reads below specifications, refer
toFeed Circuit Testin this section.
(c) If voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
starter motor does not turn, refer toControl Cir-
cuit Testingin this section.
(d) If voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
starter motor turns very slowly, refer toFeed Cir-
cuit Testin this section.
NOTE: A cold engine will increase starter current
(amperage) draw reading, and reduce battery volt-
age reading.FEED CIRCUIT TEST
The starter feed circuit test (voltage drop method)
will determine if there is excessive resistance in
high-amperage feed circuit. For complete starter wir-
ing circuit diagrams, refer 8, Wiring Diagrams.
When performing these tests, it is important to
remember that voltage drop is giving an indication of
resistance between two points at which voltmeter
probes are attached.
Example:When testing resistance of positive bat-
tery cable, touch voltmeter leads to positive battery
cable clamp and cable connector at starter solenoid.
If you probe positive battery terminal post and cable
connector at starter solenoid, you are reading com-
bined voltage drop in positive battery cable clamp-to-
terminal post connection and positive battery cable.
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing tests,
be certain that following procedures are accom-
plished:
²Battery is fully-charged and load-tested. Refer to
Batteryin 8, Battery.
²Fully engage parking brake.
²If equipped with manual transmission, place
gearshift selector lever in Neutral position and block
clutch pedal in fully depressed position. If equipped
with automatic transmission, place gearshift selector
lever in Park position.
²Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned
off.
²To prevent a gasoline engine from starting,
remove Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. To prevent
a diesel engine from starting, remove Fuel Pump
Relay. These relays are located in Power Distribution
Center (PDC). Refer to label on PDC cover for relay
location.
(1) Connect positive lead of voltmeter to negative
battery cable terminal post. Connect negative lead of
voltmeter to negative battery cable clamp (Fig. 2).
Rotate and hold ignition switch in Start position.
Observe voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct poor
contact between cable clamp and terminal post.
Note: Certain diesel equipped models use dual
batteries. If equipped with dual battery system,
procedure must be performed twice, once for
each battery.
(2) Connect positive lead of voltmeter to positive
battery terminal post. Connect negative lead of volt-
meter to battery positive cable clamp (Fig. 3). Rotate
and hold ignition switch in Start position. Observe
voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct poor contact
between cable clamp and terminal post.Note: Cer-
tain diesel equipped models use dual batteries.
If equipped with dual battery system, this pro-
cedure must be performed twice, once for each
battery.
Fig. 1 VOLTS-AMPS TESTER CONNECTIONS -
TYPICAL
1 - POSITIVE CLAMP
2 - NEGATIVE CLAMP
3 - INDUCTION AMMETER CLAMP
DRSTARTING 8F - 31
STARTING (Continued)

(3) Connect voltmeter to measure between battery
positive terminal post and starter solenoid battery
terminal stud (Fig. 4). Rotate and hold ignition
switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter. If read-
ing is above 0.2 volt, clean and tighten battery cable
connection at solenoid. Repeat test. If reading is still
above 0.2 volt, replace faulty positive battery cable.
Note: Certain diesel equipped models use dual
batteries. If equipped with dual battery system,
this procedure must be performed on driver
side battery only.
(4) Connect voltmeter to measure between nega-
tive battery terminal post and a good clean ground
on engine block (Fig. 5). Rotate and hold ignition
switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter. If read-
ing is above 0.2 volt, clean and tighten negative bat-tery cable attachment on engine block. Repeat test. If
reading is still above 0.2 volt, replace faulty negative
battery cable.Note: Certain diesel equipped mod-
els use dual batteries. If equipped with dual
battery system, this procedure must be per-
formed twice, once for each battery.
(5) Connect positive lead of voltmeter to starter
housing. Connect negative lead of voltmeter to nega-
tive battery terminal post (Fig. 6). Rotate and hold
ignition switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter.
If reading is above 0.2 volt, correct poor starter to
engine block ground contact.Note: Certain diesel
equipped models use dual batteries. If equipped
with dual battery system, this procedure must
be performed on driver side battery only.
Fig. 2 TEST BATTERY NEGATIVE CONNECTION
RESISTANCE - TYPICAL
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 3 TEST BATTERY POSITIVE CONNECTION
RESISTANCE - TYPICAL
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 4 TEST BATTERY POSITIVE CABLE
RESISTANCE - TYPICAL
1 - BATTERY
2 - VOLTMETER
3 - STARTER MOTOR
Fig. 5 TEST GROUND CIRCUIT RESISTANCE -
TYPICAL
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
3 - ENGINE GROUND
8F - 32 STARTINGDR
STARTING (Continued)

(6) If equipped with dual battery system (certain
diesel equipped models), connect positive lead of volt-
meter to positive battery cable clamp on battery
located on left side of vehicle. Connect negative lead
of voltmeter to positive battery terminal post on bat-
tery located on right side of vehicle. Rotate and hold
ignition switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter.If reading is above 0.2 volt, clean and tighten battery
cables at both batteries. Repeat test. If reading is
still above 0.2 volt, replace faulty positive battery
cable.
If resistance tests detect no feed circuit problems,
refer toStarter Motorin the Diagnosis and Testing.
CONTROL CIRCUIT TESTING
The starter control circuit components should be
tested in the order in which they are listed, as fol-
lows:
²Starter Relay- Refer toStarter RelayDiag-
nosis and Testing.
²Starter Solenoid- Refer toStarter Motor
Diagnosis and Testing.
²Ignition Switch- Refer toIgnition Switch
and Key Lock Cylinder
²Clutch Pedal Position Switch- If equipped
with manual transmission, refer toClutch Pedal
Position Switchin 6, Clutch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- If equipped
with automatic transmission, refer toPark/Neutral
Position Switchin 21, Transmission.
²Wire harnesses and connections- Refer to 8,
Wiring Diagrams.
SPECIFICATIONS
STARTING SYSTEM
Starter Motor and Solenoid
Manufacturer Denso Denso Denso
Part Number 56028715AD 56027703AD 4741012
Engine Application 3.7L / 4.7L / 5.7L / 5.9L 8.0L 5.9L Diesel
Power Rating1.4 Kilowatt / 1.9
Horsepower1.4 Kilowatt / 1.9
Horsepower2.7 Kilowatt / 3.6
Horsepower
Voltage 12 Volts 12 Volts 12 Volts
Number of Brushes 4 4 4
Drive Type Gear Reduction Gear Reduction Conventional
Free Running Test Voltage 11 Volts 11 Volts 11 Volts
Free Running Test Amperage
Draw73 Amperes 73 Amperes 200 Amperes
Free Running Test Minimum
Speed3601 rpm 3601 rpm 3000
Solenoid Closing Maximum
Voltage Required7.5 Volts 7.5 Volts 8.0 Volts
* Cranking Amperage Draw
Test125 - 250 Amperes 125 - 250 Amperes 450 - 700 Amperes
* Test at operating temperature. Cold engine, tight (new) engine, or heavy oil will increase starter amperage draw.
Fig. 6 TEST STARTER GROUND - TYPICAL
1 - STARTER MOTOR
2 - BATTERY
3 - VOLTMETER
DRSTARTING 8F - 33
STARTING (Continued)

STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The starter relay is an electromechanical device
that switches battery current to the pull-in coil of the
starter solenoid when ignition switch is turned to
Start position. The starter relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine com-
partment. See PDC cover for relay identification and
location.
The starter relay is a International Standards
Organization (ISO) relay. Relays conforming to ISO
specifications have common physical dimensions, cur-
rent capacities, terminal patterns, and terminal func-
tions.
The starter relay cannot be repaired or adjusted. If
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The ISO relay consists of an electromagnetic coil, a
resistor or diode, and three (two fixed and one mov-
able) electrical contacts. The movable (common feed)
relay contact is held against one of the fixed contacts
(normally closed) by spring pressure. When electro-
magnetic coil is energized, it draws the movable con-
tact away from normally closed fixed contact, and
holds it against the other (normally open) fixed con-
tact.
When electromagnetic coil is de-energized, spring
pressure returns movable contact to normally closed
position. The resistor or diode is connected in parallel
with electromagnetic coil within relay, and helps to
dissipate voltage spikes produced when coil is de-en-
ergized.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER RELAY
The starter relay (Fig. 15) is located in Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC). Refer to PDC cover for relay
identification and location. For complete starter relay
wiring circuit diagrams, refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams.
(1) Remove starter relay from PDC.
(2) A relay in de-energized position should have
continuity between terminals 87A and 30, and no
continuity between terminals 87 and 30. If OK, go to
Step 3. If not OK, replace faulty relay.
(3) Resistance between terminals 85 and 86 (elec-
tromagnet) should be 75   5 ohms. If OK, go to Step
4. If not OK, replace faulty relay.
(4) Connect 12V battery to terminals 85 and 86.
There should now be continuity between terminals
30 and 87, and no continuity between terminals 87A
and 30. If OK, perform Relay Circuit Test that fol-
lows. If not OK, replace faulty relay.RELAY CIRCUIT TEST
(1) The relay common feed terminal cavity (30) is
connected to battery voltage and should be hot at all
times. If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair open cir-
cuit to fuse in PDC as required.
(2) The relay normally closed terminal (87A) is
connected to terminal 30 in the de-energized position,
but is not used for this application. Go to Step 3.
(3) The relay normally open terminal (87) is con-
nected to common feed terminal (30) in the energized
position. This terminal supplies battery voltage to
starter solenoid field coils. There should be continu-
ity between cavity for relay terminal 87 and starter
solenoid terminal at all times. If OK, go to Step 4. If
not OK, repair open circuit to starter solenoid as
required.
(4) The coil battery terminal (86) is connected to
electromagnet in relay. It is energized when ignition
switch is held in Start position. On vehicles with
manual transmission, clutch pedal must be fully
depressed for this test. Check for battery voltage at
cavity for relay terminal 86 with ignition switch in
Start position, and no voltage when ignition switch is
released to On position. If OK, go to Step 5. If not
OK with automatic transmission, check for open or
short circuit to ignition switch and repair, if required.
If circuit to ignition switch is OK, refer toIgnition
Switch and Key Lock Cylinder. If not OK with a
manual transmission, check circuit between relay
and clutch pedal position switch for open or a short.
If circuit is OK, refer toClutch Pedal Position
Switchin 6 , Clutch.
Fig. 15 TYPE 1 RELAY
TERMINAL LEGEND
NUMBER IDENTIFICATION
30 COMMON FEED
85 COIL GROUND
86 COIL BATTERY
87 NORMALLY OPEN
87A NORMALLY CLOSED
8F - 38 STARTINGDR

HEATED SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
HEATED MIRRORS......................... 1 HEATED SEATSYSTEM..................... 3
HEATED MIRRORS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
HEATED MIRRORS
DESCRIPTION - HEATED MIRROR SYSTEM . . . 1
OPERATION - HEATED MIRROR SYSTEM.....1DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED
MIRROR SYSTEM......................2
HEATED MIRRORS
DESCRIPTION - HEATED MIRROR SYSTEM
Electrically heated outside rear view mirrors are
an additional factory-installed option on models that
are equipped with factory-installed dual power mir-
rors. Vehicles with this option can be visually identi-
fied by the International Control and Display Symbol
icon for rear window defogger, which appears on thelower inboard corner of each outside mirror glass
(Fig. 1); or, by the heated mirror switch that is
located in the lower left corner of the a/c heater con-
trol unit face plate. The heated mirror system helps
the vehicle operator maintain outside rear view mir-
ror visibility during inclement operating conditions
by keeping both outside mirror glasses clear of ice,
snow, or fog. The heated mirror system for this vehi-
cle includes the following major components:
²The heated mirror switch, including the heated
mirror system solid state electronic control logic and
timer circuitry, the heated mirror relay and the
heated mirror system indicator lamp. All of these
components are integral to the a/c heater control unit
on the instrument panel.
²The two outside mirror heating grids, which are
integral to the power outside mirror units.
Following are general descriptions of the major
components in the heated mirror system. See the
owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more
information on the features, use and operation of the
heated mirror system.
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
Fig. 1 HEATED MIRROR- typical
1 - POWER HEATED OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR
2 - REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER ICON
DRHEATED SYSTEMS 8G - 1

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:
1. Turn 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.
2. Turn 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.
8G - 2 HEATED MIRRORSDR
HEATED MIRRORS (Continued)

OPERATION
The heated seat module receives fused battery cur-
rent through the Integrated Power Module only when
the engine is running. The heated seat switches
receive battery current through fuse #48 in the Inte-
grated Power Module 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 system will only operate
when the surface temperature of the seat cushion is
below the designed temperature set points of the sys-
tem.
The heated seat system will also automatically
turn off 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 ON, the heated seat will remain Off after the
engine is restarted until a heated seat switch is
depressed again. This helps prevent the vehicles bat-
tery from being drained by the heated seat system.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 uses
its internal programming to control 12v to the heated
seat elements in both front seats and to control the
heated seat LED indicator lamps located in both of
the heated seat switches. The heated seat module is
also programmed to provide self-diagnostics, if a
problem with the heated seat system is detected. If
the module detects certain failures within the heated
seat system, it will provide a visual indication of the
failure by flashing the indicator lamps in the appro-
priate heated seat switch. The heated seat module
will automatically turn off the heated seat elements
if it detects a short or open in the heated seat ele-
ment 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
SYSTEM SELF-DIAGNOSIS table for failure identi-
fication. The drivers heated seat switch indicator
lamps will flash if a failure occurs in the driver
heated seat, and the passengers heated seat switch
indicator lamps will flash for a passenger heated seat
failure. If a monitored heated seat system failure
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
Fig. 1 DR Heated Seat System Diagram
1 - WIRE HARNESS
2 - DRIVER HEATED SEAT SWITCH
3 - PASSENGER HEATED SEAT SWITCH
4 - PASSENGER HEATED SEAT CUSHION ELEMENT
5 - SEAT CUSHION/BACK ELEMENT ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
LOCATION
6 - DRIVER HEATED SEAT BACK ELEMENT
7 - DRIVER HEATED SEAT CUSHION ELEMENT
8 - HEATED SEAT MODULE
8G - 4 HEATED SEAT SYSTEMDR
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM (Continued)

the element grids to the heated seat module through
the seat wire harness.
One temperature sensor is used for each front seat,
and it is located in the center insert area of the seat
cushion element. The heated seat sensors and their
pigtail wires are also captured between a covering
and the adhesive foam rubber backing. The heated
seat sensors are Negative Thermal Coefficient (NTC)
thermistors. The sensors for both front seats receive
a voltage feed from a single output of the heated seat
module, but the module receives individual sensor
inputs from the driver side and passenger side sen-
sors.
The heated seat elements and sensors should not
be repaired. If damaged or faulty, the heated seat ele-
ment assembly must be replaced.
OPERATION
One end of the heated seat element resistor wire is
connected to ground at all times through a splice in
the heated seat module ground circuit. Battery cur-
rent is directed to the other end of the heated seat
element resistor wire by the energized N-channel
Field Effect Transistor (N-FET) located within the
heated seat module. The heated seat module will
energize the N-FET only when the heated seat
switch is in the Low or High position and the heated
seat sensor indicates that the seat cushion surface
temperature is below the selected (Low or High) tem-
perature set point. As electrical current passes
through the heating element grid, the resistance of
the wire used in the element disperses some of that
electrical current in the form of heat. The heat pro-
duced by the heated seat element grid then radiates
through the seat trim cover, warming its occupant.
The resistance of the heated seat sensor increases
and decreases as the surface temperature of the seat
cushion cover changes. The heated seat module sup-
plies each sensor with a 5v voltage feed, then uses
the sensor resistance to determine when the heated
seat element grids need to be cycled on or off in order
to maintain the selected temperature set point.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
ELEMENT
The heated seat module will self-diagnose shorted
or open heated seat element circuits and sensor cir-
cuits. Refer to Heated Seat System Diagnosis and
Testing in this section for additional diagnosis and
testing procedures. To manually check the heated
seat element, proceed as follows. The wire harness
connectors for the seat cushion and seat back heating
elements and sensor are located on the right side of
the seat, near the edge of the seat cushion frame.
The proper connector can be identified by the foam
wrapping.NOTE: When checking heated seat elements for
continuity, be certain to move the heating element
being checked. Moving the element, such as sitting
in the seat will eliminate the possibility of an inter-
mittent open in the element which would only be
evident if the element was in a certain position.
Failure to check the element in various positions
could result in an incomplete test.
(1) Position the appropriate seat in the full for-
ward position.
(2) Make certain the ignition switch is in the OFF
position.
(3) Disconnect the heated seat element connector
which requires testing. Check for continuity between
the two heated seat element circuit cavities while
moving the appropriate seat cushion. Refer toWir-
ingfor the location of complete heated seat system
wiring diagrams. There should be continuity. If OK,
the elements within the seat assembly test OK, go to
Step 4. If not OK, replace the faulty seat heating ele-
ment, refer to the procedure in this section.
(4) Test the seat wire harness between the heated
seat module connector and the appropriate heated
seat wire harness connector for shorted or open cir-
cuits. If OK, element is OK, proceed with testing the
heated seat sensor and module. If not OK, repair the
shorted or open seat wire harness as required.
REMOVAL
Do not remove the heating element from the seat
or seat back cushion. The original element is perma-
nently attached to the seat cushions and cannot be
removed without damaging the cushion. The replace-
ment heating element is designed to be applied
directly over the original seat heating element.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the appropriate seat cushion or seat
back trim cover. Refer to the Body section of this
manual for the procedures.
(3) Disconnect the inoperative heated seat cushion
or seat back element electrical connectors.
(4) Locate the wires leading from the inoperative
heating element and cut them off flush with the edge
of the original heating element.
INSTALLATION
(1) Peel off the adhesive backing on the back of the
replacement heating element and stick directly over
the original heating element (Fig. 3).
CAUTION: During the installation of the replace-
ment heating element, be careful not to fold or
crease the element assembly. Folds or creases will
cause premature failure.
8G - 6 HEATED SEAT SYSTEMDR
HEATED SEAT ELEMENT (Continued)

diagnostic feedback for the heated seat system. Each
switch also has an incandescent bulb, which provides
dimmer controlled back lighting of the switch when
the headlamps or park lamps are on.
The heated seat switches are both mounted in the
instrument panel center bezel, located in the lower
center of the instrument panel. The two switches are
snapped into the mounting holes of the heated seat
switch bezel, and the heated seat switch bezel is
secured with screws to the instrument panel center
bezel. The heated seat switches are differentiated by
the keyway in the connector receptacle on the backs
of the switches and keyway on the switch housing.
The instrument panel wire harness connectors for
the heated seat switches are keyed to match the con-
nector receptacles on the switches so that the two
heated seat switches can only be connected to the
proper heated seat electrical.
The two LED indicator lamps and the incandescent
bulb in each heated seat switch cannot be repaired. If
the indicator lamps or back lighting bulb are faulty
or damaged, the individual heated seat switch must
be replaced.
OPERATION
The heated seat switches receive battery current
through a fused ignition switch output (run) circuit
when the ignition switch is in the On position.
Depressing the heated seat switch rocker to its
momentary High or Low position provides a hard-wired resistance signal to the heated seat module.
This signal tells the module to energize the heated
seat element of the selected seat and maintain the
requested temperature setting. If the heated seat
switch is depressed to a different position (Low or
High) than the currently selected state, the heated
seat module will change states to support the new
selection. If a heated seat switch is depressed a sec-
ond time, the heated seat module interprets the sec-
ond input as a request to turn the seat heater OFF.
The High and Low LED indicator lamps in the
heated seat switches receive battery current through
a fused ignition switch output (run) circuit when the
ignition switch is in the On position. The ground side
of each indicator lamp is controlled by the heated
seat module. This control of the switch indicator
lamps also allows the module to provide diagnostic
feedback to the vehicle operator or technician to indi-
cate heated seat system faults by flashing the indica-
tor lamps on and off. One side of the incandescent
back lighting bulb in each heated seat switch is con-
nected to ground at all times. The other side of the
incandescent bulb is connected to the fused panel
lamps dimmer switch signal circuit. These bulbs are
energized when the park lamps or headlamps are
turned on, and their illumination intensity is con-
trolled by the panel lamps dimmer switch.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SWITCH
Refer toWiring Diagramsfor connector pin-outs
and the location of complete heated seat system wir-
ing diagrams.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) If the problem being diagnosed involves inoper-
ative heated seat switch back lighting and the cluster
illumination lamps operate, go to Step 2. If the prob-
lem being diagnosed involves inoperative heated seat
switch back lighting and the cluster illumination
lamps are also inoperative, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). If the problem being diagnosed involves
Fig. 4 HEATED SEAT SWITCH
1 - HEATED SEAT SWITCH
2 - LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE (LED) INDICATOR LAMPS
8G - 8 HEATED SEAT SYSTEMDR
HEATED SEAT SWITCH (Continued)