heating DODGE RAM 2003 Service Owner's Guide

This system capacity will not effect warm up or
cold weather operating characteristics if the thermo-
stat is operating properly. This is because coolant
will be held in the engine until it reaches the ther-
mostat ªsetº temperature.
Diesel engines, due to their inherent efficiency are
slower to warm up than gasoline powered engines,
and will operate at lower temperatures when the
vehicle is unloaded. Because of this, lower tempera-
ture gauge readings for diesel versus gasoline
engines may, at times be normal.
Typically, complaints of low engine coolant temper-
ature are observed as low heater output when com-
bined with cool or cold outside temperatures.
To help promote faster engine warm-up, the elec-
tric engine block heater must be used with cool or
cold outside temperatures. This will help keep the
engine coolant warm when the vehicle is parked. Use
the block heater if the outside temperature is below
4ÉC (40ÉF).Do not use the block heater if the
outside temperature is above 4ÉC (40ÉF).
A ªCold Weather Coverº is available from the parts
department through the Mopar Accessories product
line. This accessory cover is designed to block airflow
entering the radiator and engine compartment to
promote faster engine warm-up. It attaches to the
front of the vehicle at the grill opening.The cover is
to be used with cool or cold temperatures only.
If used with high outside temperatures, serious
engine damage could result.Refer to the litera-
ture supplied with the cover for additional informa-
tion.
(1) To determine if the thermostat is defective, it
must be removed from the vehicle (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ENGINE/ENGINE COOLANT THERMO-
STAT - REMOVAL).
(2) After the thermostat has been removed, exam-
ine the thermostat and inside of thermostat housing
for contaminants. If contaminants are found, the
thermostat may already be in a ªstuck openº position.
Flush the cooling system before replacing thermostat
(Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE).
(3) Place the thermostat into a container filled
with water.
(4) Place the container on a hot plate or other suit-
able heating device.
(5) Place a commercially available radiator ther-
mometer into the water.
(6) Apply heat to the water while observing the
thermostat and thermometer.
(7) The thermostat will begin to open at 85.5 Ð
89.4ÉC. (186 Ð193ÉF ). If the valve starts to move
before this temperature is reached, it is opening too
early. Replace thermostat. The thermostat should be
fully open (valve will stop moving) at 97ÉC (207ÉF). Ifthe valve is still moving when the water temperature
reaches 97ÉC (207ÉF), it is opening too late. Replace
thermostat. If the valve refuses to move at any time,
replace thermostat.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DO NOT LOOSEN THE RADIATOR
DRAINCOCK WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND PRES-
SURIZED. SERIOUS BURNS FROM THE COOLANT
CAN OCCUR.
Do not waste reusable coolant. If the solution is
clean, drain the coolant into a clean container for
reuse.
(1) Disconnect the battery negative cables.
(2) Drain cooling system until coolant level is
below thermostat (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE).
WARNING: CONSTANT TENSION HOSE CLAMPS
ARE USED ON MOST COOLING SYSTEM HOSES.
WHEN REMOVING OR INSTALLING, USE ONLY
TOOLS DESIGNED FOR SERVICING THIS TYPE OF
CLAMP, SUCH AS SPECIAL CLAMP TOOL (NUMBER
6094). SNAP-ON CLAMP TOOL (NUMBER HPC-20)
MAY BE USED FOR LARGER CLAMPS. ALWAYS
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN SERVICING CON-
STANT TENSION CLAMPS.
CAUTION: A number or letter is stamped into the
tongue of constant tension clamps. If replacement
is necessary, use only an original equipment clamp
with a matching number or letter.
(3) Remove radiator hose clamp and hose from
thermostat housing.
(4) Remove the three (3) water outlet-to-cylinder
head bolts and remove the water outlet connector
(Fig. 28).
(5) Clean the mating surfaces of the water outlet
connector and clean the thermostat seat groove at
the top of the thermostat housing (Fig. 28).
INSTALLATION
(1) Inspect thermostat seal for cuts or nicks.
Replace if damaged.
(2) Install the thermostat into the groove in the
top of the cylinder head (Fig. 28).
(3) Install the thermostat housing and bolts.
Tighten the bolts to 10 N´m (88 in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Install the radiator upper hose and clamp.
(5) Fill the cooling system with coolant (Refer to 7
- COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(6) Connect the battery negative cables.
DRENGINE 7 - 53
ENGINE COOLANT THERMOSTAT - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

occur when ambient (outside air temperature) is very
high.
²Engine loads and temperatures are high such as
when towing a trailer.
²Cool silicone fluid within the fan drive unit is
being redistributed back to its normal disengaged
(warm) position. This can occur during the first 15
seconds to one minute after engine start-up on a cold
engine.
LEAKS
Viscous fan drive operation is not affected by small
oil stains near the drive bearing. If leakage appears
excessive, replace the fan drive unit.
VISCOUS DRIVE
If the fan assembly free-wheels without drag (the
fan blades will revolve more than five turns when
spun by hand), replace the fan drive. This spin test
must be performed when the engine is cool.
For the following test, the cooling system must be
in good condition. It also will ensure against exces-
sively high coolant temperature.
WARNING: BE SURE THAT THERE IS ADEQUATE
FAN BLADE CLEARANCE BEFORE DRILLING.
(1) Drill a 3.18-mm (1/8-in) diameter hole in the
top center of the fan shroud.
(2) Obtain a dial thermometer with an 8 inch stem
(or equivalent). It should have a range of -18É-to-
105ÉC (0É-to-220É F). Insert thermometer through the
hole in the shroud. Be sure that there is adequate
clearance from the fan blades.
(3) Connect a tachometer and an engine ignition
timing light. The timing light is to be used as a
strobe light. This step cannot be used on the diesel
engine.
(4) Block the air flow through the radiator. Secure
a sheet of plastic in front of the radiator. Use tape at
the top to secure the plastic and be sure that the air
flow is blocked.
(5) Be sure that the air conditioner (if equipped) is
turned off.
WARNING: USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN THE
ENGINE IS OPERATING. DO NOT STAND IN A
DIRECT LINE WITH THE FAN. DO NOT PUT YOUR
HANDS NEAR THE PULLEYS, BELTS OR FAN. DO
NOT WEAR LOOSE CLOTHING.
(6) Start the engine and operate at 2400 rpm.
Within ten minutes the air temperature (indicated on
the dial thermometer) should be up to 88É C (190É F).
Fan driveengagementshould start to occur at/be-
tween:
²3.7L Automatic Ð 93É C - 99ÉC (200É F - 210É F)²3.7L Manual/4.7L Automatic/5.9L Ð 85É to 91É C
(185É to 195É F)
²4.7L Manual Ð 74É to 79É C (165É to 175É F)
²Engagement is distinguishable by a definite
increasein fan flow noise (roaring). The timing light
also will indicate an increase in the speed of the fan.
(7) When viscous drive engagement is verified,
remove the plastic sheet. Fan drivedisengagement
should start to occur at or between:
²3.7L Automatic Ð 76ÉC to 81ÉC (168É F to 178É
F)
²3.7L Manual/4.7L Auto/ 5.9L Ð 67ÉC to 73ÉC
(153É F to 163É F)
²4.7L Manual Ð 56ÉC to 62ÉC (133É F to 143É F)
²8.0L engine Ð 88É to 96É C (190É to 205É F) A
definitedecreaseof fan flow noise (roaring) should
be noticed. If not, replace the defective viscous fan
drive unit.
CAUTION: Some engines equipped with serpentine
drive belts have reverse rotating fans and viscous
fan drives. They are marked with the word
REVERSE to designate their usage. Installation of
the wrong fan or viscous fan drive can result in
engine overheating.
CAUTION: If the viscous fan drive is replaced
because of mechanical damage, the cooling fan
blades should also be inspected. Inspect for fatigue
cracks, loose blades, or loose rivets that could
have resulted from excessive vibration. Replace fan
blade assembly if any of these conditions are
found. Also inspect water pump bearing and shaft
assembly for any related damage due to a viscous
fan drive malfunction.
FAN DRIVE VISCOUS CLUTCH
- 5.9L DIESEL
DESCRIPTION
The electronically controlled thermal viscous fan
drive (Fig. 31) is attached to the fan drive pulley
mounted to the engine. The coupling allows the fan
to be driven in a normal manner. The fan speed is
controlled by the electronic control module.
OPERATION
The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the
level of engagment of the electronically controlled
viscous fan clutch by monitoring coolant tempera-
ture, intake manifold temperature, and air condition-
ing status. Based on cooling requirements, the ECM
sends a signal to the viscous fan clutch to increase or
decrease the fan speed.
DRENGINE 7 - 55
FAN DRIVE VISCOUS CLUTCH (Continued)

Fan speed is monitored by the ECM. A lack of fan
speed will set a DTC. Circuit concerns will also set
fan clutch DTC's.
Fan speed and duty cycle percent can be monitored
with the DRB III..
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ELECTRONICLY
CONTOLLED VISCOUS FAN DRIVE
NOISE
NOTE: It is normal for fan noise to be louder (roar-
ing) when:
²Fan duty cycle high. This may occur when ambi-
ent (outside air temperature) is very high.
²Engine loads and temperatures are high such as
when towing a trailer.
²Cool silicone fluid within the fan drive unit is
being redistributed back to its normal disengaged
(warm) position. This can occur during the first 15
seconds to one minute after engine start-up on a cold
engine.
LEAKS
Viscous fan drive operation is not affected by small
oil stains near the drive bearing. If leakage appears
excessive, replace the fan drive unit.
ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED VISCOUS DRIVE
If the fan assembly free-wheels without drag (the
fan blades will revolve more than five turns when
spun by hand), replace the fan drive. This spin test
must be performed when the engine is cool.
For the following test, the cooling system must be
in good condition. It also will ensure against exces-
sively high coolant temperature.
The Electronic Viscous Fan drive can be tested
using the DRB III scan tool.
(1) Set the parking brake and verify the transmis-
sion is in park or neutral.
(2) Stat and allow engine to reach normal operat-
ing termeratures.
(3) With engine idling, connect the DRB III and
select appropraite model year and engine option.
(4) Lacate and select actuator tests, then select
PWM Viscous Fan.
(5) Monitor fan speed and duty cycle; verify that
the fan speed increments are proportional to the duty
cycle precentage during the actuation event.
CAUTION: Some engines equipped with serpentine
drive belts have reverse rotating fans and viscous
fan drives. They are marked with the word
REVERSE to designate their usage. Installation of
the wrong fan or viscous fan drive can result in
engine overheating.
CAUTION: If the viscous fan drive is replaced
because of mechanical damage, the cooling fan
blades should also be inspected. Inspect for fatigue
cracks, loose blades, or loose rivets that could
have resulted from excessive vibration. Replace fan
blade assembly if any of these conditions are
found.
RADIATOR
DESCRIPTION
The radiator is a aluminum cross-flow design with
horizontal tubes through the radiator core and verti-
cal plastic side tanks (Fig. 32).
This radiator does not contain an internal trans-
mission oil cooler
OPERATION
The radiator supplies sufficient heat transfer using
the cooling fins interlaced between the horizontal
tubes in the radiator core to cool the engine.
Fig. 31 Fan Blade/Viscous Fan Drive
1 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
2 - VISCOUS FAN DRIVE
3 - FAN BLADE
4 - BOLT
5 - FAN DRIVE
7 - 56 ENGINEDR
FAN DRIVE VISCOUS CLUTCH - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

INSPECTION
Visually inspect the water pump and replace if it
has any of the following conditions:
²The body is cracked or damaged
²Water leaks from the shaft seal. This is evident
by traces of coolant below the vent hole
²Loose or rough turning bearing.
²Impeller rubbing the pump body
INSTALLATION
(1) Install new O-ring seal in groove on water
pump (Fig. 51).
(2) Install water pump. Tighten mounting bolts to
24 N´m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install accessory drive belt. Refer to procedure
in this group.
(4) Install the bolt retaining the wiring harness
near top of water pump.
(5) Fill cooling system. Refer to Refilling Cooling
System in this section.
(6) Connect both battery cables.
(7) Start and warm the engine. Check for leaks.
WATER PUMP INLET TUBE -
5.9L
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - WATER PUMP BYPASS HOSE
WITH AIR CONDITIONING
If equipped with A/C, the generator and A/C com-
pressor along with their common mounting bracket
(Fig. 52) must be partially removed. Removing thegenerator or A/C compressor from their mounting
bracket is not necessary. Also, discharging the A/C
system is not necessary.Do notremove any refriger-
ant lines from A/C compressor.
WARNING: THE A/C SYSTEM IS UNDER PRESSURE
EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF. REFER TO REFRIG-
ERANT WARNINGS IN SECTION 24 - HEATING AND
AIR CONDITIONING.
(1) Disconnect the negative battery cable.
(2) Partially drain the cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).Do not
waste reusable coolant. If the solution is clean, drain
the coolant into a clean container for reuse.
(3) Remove the upper radiator hose clamp at the
radiator. A special clamp tool must be used to remove
the constant tension clamps. Removethe hose at the
radiator.
(4) Unplug the wiring harness from the A/C com-
pressor.
(5) Remove the air cleaner assembly.
(6) Remove the accessory drive belt (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS -
REMOVAL).
(7) The drive belt idler pulley must be removed to
gain access to one of the A/C compressor/generator
bracket mounting bolts. Remove the idler pulley bolt
and remove idler pulley (Fig. 53).
(8) Remove the engine oil dipstick tube mounting
bolt at the side of the A/C-generator mounting
bracket.
(9) Disconnect the throttle body control cables.
Fig. 51 Pump O-ring Seal
1 - O-RING SEAL
2 - GROOVE
3 - WATER PUMP
Fig. 52 Generator - A/C Compressor Mounting
Bracket - Typical
7 - 68 ENGINEDR
WATER PUMP - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

²Battery voltage
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
The PCM monitors the crankshaft position sensor.
If the PCM does not receive a crankshaft position
sensor signal within 3 seconds of cranking the
engine, it will shut down the fuel injection system.
The fuel pump is activated by the PCM through
the fuel pump relay.
Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then control
the injection sequence and injector pulse width by
turning the ground circuit to each individual injector
on and off.
The PCM determines the proper ignition timing
according to input received from the crankshaft posi-
tion sensor.
ENGINE WARM-UP MODE
This is an Open Loop mode. During engine warm-
up, the PCM receives inputs from:
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Park/neutral switch (gear indicator signalÐauto.
trans. only)
²Air conditioning select signal (if equipped)
²Air conditioning request signal (if equipped)
Based on these inputs the following occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then control
the injection sequence and injector pulse width by
turning the ground circuit to each individual injector
on and off.
²The PCM adjusts engine idle speed through the
idle air control (IAC) motor and adjusts ignition tim-
ing.
²The PCM operates the A/C compressor clutch
through the A/C compressor clutch relay. This is done
if A/C has been selected by the vehicle operator and
specified pressures are met at the high and low±pres-
sure A/C switches. Refer to Heating and Air Condi-
tioning for additional information.
²When engine has reached operating tempera-
ture, the PCM will begin monitoring O2S sensor
input. The system will then leave the warm-up mode
and go into closed loop operation.IDLE MODE
When the engine is at operating temperature, this
is a Closed Loop mode. At idle speed, the PCM
receives inputs from:
²Air conditioning select signal (if equipped)
²Air conditioning request signal (if equipped)
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Battery voltage
²Park/neutral switch (gear indicator signalÐauto.
trans. only)
²Oxygen sensors
Based on these inputs, the following occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then control
injection sequence and injector pulse width by turn-
ing the ground circuit to each individual injector on
and off.
²The PCM monitors the O2S sensor input and
adjusts air-fuel ratio by varying injector pulse width.
It also adjusts engine idle speed through the idle air
control (IAC) motor.
²The PCM adjusts ignition timing by increasing
and decreasing spark advance.
²The PCM operates the A/C compressor clutch
through the A/C compressor clutch relay. This is done
if A/C has been selected by the vehicle operator and
specified pressures are met at the high and low±pres-
sure A/C switches. Refer to Heating and Air Condi-
tioning for additional information.
CRUISE MODE
When the engine is at operating temperature, this
is a Closed Loop mode. At cruising speed, the PCM
receives inputs from:
²Air conditioning select signal (if equipped)
²Air conditioning request signal (if equipped)
²Battery voltage
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Park/neutral switch (gear indicator signalÐauto.
trans. only)
²Oxygen (O2S) sensors
Based on these inputs, the following occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then adjust
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 9
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

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)

HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................3
OPERATION............................4
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SYSTEM.............................4
HEATED SEAT ELEMENT
DESCRIPTION..........................5
OPERATION............................6
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
ELEMENT............................6
REMOVAL.............................6
INSTALLATION..........................6
HEATED SEAT SENSOR
DESCRIPTION..........................7OPERATION............................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SENSOR.............................7
REMOVAL.............................7
HEATED SEAT SWITCH
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................8
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
SWITCH.............................8
REMOVAL.............................9
INSTALLATION..........................9
HEATED SEAT SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
Individually controlled, electrically heated front
seats are available as a factory-installed option on
some DR models. Vehicles with this option can be
visually identified by the leather trim seats and two
separate heated seat switches mounted in the lower
center of the instrument panel. The heated seat sys-
tem allows the front seat driver and passenger to
select from two different levels of 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. One switch is used for
each front seat. The switches are mounted in the
instrument panel, below the radio (Fig. 1). Each
switch also includes two Light-Emitting Diode (LED)
indicator lamps and an incandescent back lighting
bulb.
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 drivers front seat cushion (Fig. 1). Refer to
the Electronic Control Modules section of the service
manual for additional heated seat module informa-
tion.²Heated Seat Elements- Four heated seat ele-
ments are used per vehicle. One element is used for
each front seat back and one element and sensor
assembly is used for each front seat cushion (Fig. 1).
The heating elements are integral to the individual
front seat and seat back cushions and cannot be
removed once installed at the factory. Replacement
seat heating elements are available, without having
to replace the entire seat cushion or trim cover. Refer
to the detailed procedure later in this section.
²Heated Seat Sensors- Two heated seat sen-
sors are used per vehicle. One heated seat tempera-
ture sensor is used for each front seat cushion. The
sensors are integral to the individual front seat cush-
ion heating elements (Fig. 1) and cannot be removed
once installed at the factory. Replacement seat heat-
ing elements with the sensors are available, without
having to replace the entire seat cushion or trim
cover. Refer to the detailed procedure later in this
section.
Following are general descriptions and operations
of the major components in the heated seat system.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of the heated seat system. Refer toWiringfor the
location of complete heated seat system wiring dia-
grams.
DRHEATED SEAT SYSTEM 8G - 3

Diagnostic logic is built into the heated seat mod-
ule to help the person trying to locate the problem by
the most efficient means possible. Anytime a problem
is suspected, locate the diagnosis and testing proce-
dure for the component in question and follow the
steps until the specific problem is located and
resolved. Once the problem is thought to be cor-
rected, verify correct system operation. If the heated
seat system is functioning correctly return the vehi-
cle to service.
If a problem could not be verified such as not find-
ing anything wrong when following the diagnostic
procedure, this is a good indication that a INTER-
MITTENT problem may be present. You must then
attempt to find the intermittent problem, such as
moving the heating element within the seat while
testing continuity or wiggling the wire harness's/elec-
trical connectors under the seat while testing conti-
nuity. Always, eliminate all other potential problems
before attempting to replace the heated seat module.
PRELIMINARY TEST
Refer toWiringfor the location of complete heated
seat system wiring diagrams. Before testing the indi-
vidual components in the heated seat system, per-
form the following preliminary checks:
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
CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIR-
BAG 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.
²If the heated seat switch back lighting and the
cluster illumination lamps do not illuminate with the
headlamps or park lamps turned On, refer to the
Instrument Clustersection of the service manual
for the location of cluster illumination lamp diagnosis
and testing procedures. If the heated seat switch
back lighting does not illuminate, but the cluster illu-
mination lamps do illuminate with the headlamps or
park lamps turned On, refer toDiagnosis and Test-
ing the Heated Seat Switchin this section for the
location of the heated seat switch diagnosis and test-
ing procedures.
²If a single LED indicator lamp for one heated
seat switch does not operate and the heated seat ele-
ments do heat, refer toDiagnosis and Testing theHeated Seat Switchin this section for heated seat
switch diagnosis and testing procedures.
²If both LED indicator lamps for a heated seat
switch operate, but the heated seat elements do not
heat, refer toDiagnosis and Testing the Heated
Seat Modulein Electronic Control Modules for
heated seat module diagnosis and testing procedures.
²If the indicator lamp on either heated seat
switch remains illuminated after the heated seat has
been turned Off, refer toDiagnosis and Testing
the Heated Seat Modulein Electronic Control
Modules for heated seat module diagnosis and test-
ing procedures.
HEATED SEAT ELEMENT
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with the optional heated seat
system have two sets of electrically operated heating
element grids located in each front seat, one set for
the seat cushion and the other set for the seat back.
Each of the heated seat element grids consists of a
single length of resistor wire that is routed in a zig-
zag pattern and captured between a covering and the
adhesive foam rubber backing. Short pigtail wires
with connectors (Fig. 2) are soldered to each end of
each resistor wire element grid, which connect all of
Fig. 2 Heating Element Installed on Seat Cushion
Foam
1 - SEAT BACK WIRE HARNESS
2 - HEATED SEAT WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
3 - HEATED SEAT CUSHION ELEMENT
DRHEATED SEAT SYSTEM 8G - 5
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)