electrical DODGE RAM 2003 Service Workshop Manual

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FRONT CONTROL
MODULE
The front control module is a printed circuit board
based module with a on-board micro-processor. The
front control module interfaces with other electronic
modules in the vehicle via the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus (J1850). In
order to obtain conclusive testing the Programmable
Communications Interface (PCI) data bus network
and all of the electronic modules that provide inputs
to, or receive outputs from the front control module
must be checked. All PCI (J1850) communication
faults must be resolved prior to further diagnosing
any front control module related issues.
The front control module was designed to be diag-
nosed with an appropriate diagnostic scan tool, such
as the DRB IIIt. The most reliable, efficient, and
accurate means to diagnose the front control module
requires the use of a DRB IIItscan tool and the
proper Body Diagnostic Procedures manual.
Before any testing of the front control module is
attempted, the battery should be fully charged and
all wire harness and ground connections inspected
around the affected areas on the vehicle.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the positive and negative battery
cables from the battery.
(2) Partially remove the integrated power module
from the engine compartment (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/POWER DISTRIBUTION/INTEGRATED
POWER MODULE - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the front control module retaining
screws.
(4) Using both hands, pull the front control module
straightfrom the integrated power module assembly
to disconnect the 49-way electrical connector and
remove the front control module from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the front control module on the inte-
grated power module assembly by pushing the
49-way electrical connector straight in.
(2) Install the front control module retaining
screws. Torque the screws to 7 in. lbs.
(3) Install the integrated power module (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/POWER DISTRIBUTION/INTE-
GRATED POWER MODULE - INSTALLATION).
(4) Connect the positive and negative battery
cables.
HEATED SEAT MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The heated seat module is also known as the Seat
Heat Interface Module. The heated seat module (Fig.
4) is located under the drivers front seat cushion,
where it is secured to a mounting bracket. The
heated seat module has a single connector receptacle
that allows the module to be connected to all of the
required inputs and outputs through the seat wire
harness.
The heated seat module is an electronic micropro-
cessor controlled device designed and programmed to
use inputs from the battery, the two heated seat
switches and the two heated seat sensors to operate
and control the heated seat elements in both front
seats and the two heated seat indicator lamp Light-
Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in each heated seat switch.
The heated seat module is also programmed to per-
form self-diagnosis of certain heated seat system
functions and provide feedback of that diagnosis
through the heated seat switch indicator lamps.
The heated seat module cannot be repaired. If the
heated seat module is damaged or faulty, the entire
module must be replaced.
OPERATION
The heated seat module operates on fused battery
current received from the integrated power module.
Inputs to the module include a resistor multiplexed
heated seat switch request circuit for each of the two
heated seat switches and the heated seat sensor
inputs from the seat cushions of each front seat. In
response to those inputs the heated seat module con-
trols battery current feeds to the heated seat ele-
Fig. 4 Heated Seat Module
1 - MOUNTING TABS (NOT USED ON DR)
2 - HEATED SEAT MODULE
3 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
8E - 6 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
FRONT CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

ments and sensors, and controls the ground for the
heated seat switch indicator lamps.
When a heated seat switch (Driver or Passenger) is
depressed a signal is received by the heated seat
module, the module energizes the proper indicator
LED (Low or High) in the switch by grounding the
indicator lamp circuit to indicate that the heated seat
system is operating. At the same time, the heated
seat module energizes the selected heated seat sensor
circuit and the sensor provides the module with an
input indicating the surface temperature of the
selected seat cushion.
The Low heat set point is about 36É C (96.8É F),
and the High heat set point is about 42É C (107.6É F).
If the seat cushion surface temperature input is
below the temperature set point for the selected tem-
perature setting, the heated seat module energizes
an N-channel Field Effect Transistor (N-FET) within
the module which energizes the heated seat elements
in the selected seat cushion and back. When the sen-
sor input to the module indicates the correct temper-
ature set point has been achieved, the module
de-energizes the N-FET which de-energizes the
heated seat elements. The heated seat module will
continue to cycle the N-FET as needed to maintain
the selected temperature set point.
If the heated seat module detects a heated seat
sensor value input that is out of range or a shorted
or open heated seat element circuit, it will notify the
vehicle operator or the repair technician of this con-
dition by flashing the High and/or Low indicator
lamps in the affected heated seat switch. Refer to
Diagnosis and Testing Heated Seat Systemin
Heated Systems for flashing LED diagnosis and test-
ing procedures. Refer toDiagnosis and Testing
Heated Seat Modulein this section for heated seat
module diagnosis and testing procedures.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED SEAT
MODULE
If a heated seat fails to heat and one or both of the
indicator lamps on a heated seat switch flash, refer
toDiagnosis and Testing Heated Seat Systemin
Heated Seats for the location of flashing LED heated
seat system diagnosis and testing procedures. If a
heated seat heats but one or both indicator lamps on
the heated seat switch fail to operate, test the heated
seat switch. Refer toDiagnosis and Testing
Heated Seat Switchin Heated Seats for heated
seat switch diagnosis and testing procedures. If the
heated seat switch checks OK, proceed as follows.
(1) Check the heated seat element (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED SEATS/HEATED SEAT
ELEMENT - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).(2) Check the heated seat sensor (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED SEATS/HEATED SEAT
SENSOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(3) Check the heated seat switch (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED SEATS/DRIVER HEATED
SEAT SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
NOTE: Refer to Wiring for the location of complete
heated seat system wiring diagrams and connector
pin-out information.
(4) Using a voltmeter, backprobe the appropriate
heated seat module connector, do not disconnect.
Check for voltage at the appropriate pin cavities. 12v
should be present. If OK go to Step 5, if Not, Repair
the open or shorted voltage supply circuit as
required.
(5) Using a ohmmeter, backprobe the appropriate
heated seat module connector, do not disconnect.
Check for proper continuity to ground on the ground
pin cavities. Continuity should be present. If OK
replace the heated seat module with a known good
unit and retest system, if Not OK, Repair the open or
shorted ground circuit as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Position the driver seat to the full rearward
and inclined position.
(2) Working under the driver front seat, remove
the two heated seat module retaining screws. Due to
the fact that the retaining screws are installed with
the seat cushion pan removed, a small right angle
screwdriver will be required to access and remove the
screws.
(3) Disconnect the seat wire harness connector
from the connector receptacle on the back of the
heated seat module. Depress the connector retaining
tab and pull straight apart.
(4) Remove the heated seat module from under the
front seat.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the heated seat module under the
front seat.
(2) Connect the seat wire harness connector on the
connector receptacle on the back of the heated seat
module.
(3) Working under the driver front seat, install the
heated seat module retaining screws.
(4) Re-position the driver seat.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 7
HEATED SEAT MODULE (Continued)

²supplies a reference voltage for the Throttle
Position Sensor (TPS) sensor.
Secondary 5±volt supply:
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
oil pressure sensor.
²supplies the required 5 volt power source for the
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) (if equipped).
²supplies the 5 volt power source to the transmis-
sion pressure sensor (certain automatic transmis-
sions).
OPERATION - IGNITION CIRCUIT SENSE
The ignition circuit sense input tells the PCM the
ignition switch has energized the ignition circuit.
Battery voltage is also supplied to the PCM
through the ignition switch when the ignition is in
the RUN or START position. This is referred to as
the9ignition sense9circuit and is used to9wake up9
the PCM. Voltage on the ignition input can be as low
as 6 volts and the PCM will still function. Voltage is
supplied to this circuit to power the PCM's 8-volt reg-
ulator and to allow the PCM to perform fuel, ignition
and emissions control functions.
REMOVAL
USE THE DRB SCAN TOOL TO REPROGRAM
THE NEW POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
(PCM) WITH THE VEHICLES ORIGINAL IDEN-
TIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) AND THE VEHI-
CLES ORIGINAL MILEAGE. IF THIS STEP IS
NOT DONE, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE
(DTC) MAY BE SET.
The PCM is located in the engine compartment
attached to the dash panel (Fig. 6).
To avoid possible voltage spike damage to the
PCM, ignition key must be off, and negative battery
cable must be disconnected before unplugging PCM
connectors.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
(2) Remove cover over electrical connectors. Cover
snaps onto PCM.
(3) Carefully unplug the three 32±way connectors
(four 38±way connectors if equipped with NGC) from
PCM (Fig. 7).
(4) Remove three PCM mounting bolts (Fig. 7) and
remove PCM from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
USE THE DRB SCAN TOOL TO REPROGRAM
THE NEW POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
(PCM) WITH THE VEHICLES ORIGINAL IDEN-
TIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) AND THE VEHI-
CLES ORIGINAL MILEAGE. IF THIS STEP IS
NOT DONE, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE
(DTC) MAY BE SET.
(1) Install PCM and 3 mounting bolts to vehicle.
Fig. 6 PCM LOCATION
1 - COWL GRILL
2 - PCM
3 - COWL (RIGHT-REAR)
Fig. 7 PCM REMOVAL / INSTALLATION
1 - THREE 32-WAY CONNECTORS WITH JTEC (FOUR 38-WAY
CONNECTORS WITH NGC)
2 - PCM MOUNTING BRACKET
3 - PCM
4 - PCM MOUNTING SCREWS (3)
8E - 12 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

(2) Tighten bolts. Refer to torque specifications.
(3) Check pin connectors in the PCM and the three
32±way connectors (four 38±way connectors if
equipped with NGC) for corrosion or damage. Also,
the pin heights in connectors should all be same.
Repair as necessary before installing connectors.
(4) Install three 32±way connectors (four 38±way
connectors if equipped with NGC).
(5) Install cover over electrical connectors. Cover
snaps onto PCM.
(6) Install negative battery cable.
(7) Use the DRB scan tool to reprogram new PCM
with vehicles original Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) and original vehicle mileage.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a cen-
tral processing unit, which includes the Sentry Key
Immobilizer System (SKIS) program logic. The SKIS
programming enables the SKIM to program and
retain in memory the codes of at least two, but no
more than eight electronically coded Sentry Key
transponders. The SKIS programming also enables
the SKIM to communicate over the Programmable
Communication Interface (PCI) bus network with the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and/or the
DRBIIItscan tool.
OPERATION
The SKIM transmits and receives RF signals
through a tuned antenna enclosed within a molded
plastic ring that is integral to the SKIM housing.
When the SKIM is properly installed on the steering
column, the antenna ring is oriented around the igni-
tion lock cylinder housing. This antenna ring must be
located within eight millimeters (0.31 inches) of the
Sentry Key in order to ensure proper RF communica-
tion between the SKIM and the Sentry Key tran-
sponder.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique ªSecret Keyº code and a
security code. The SKIM keeps the ªSecret Keyº code
in memory. The SKIM also sends the ªSecret Keyº
code to each of the programmed Sentry Key tran-
sponders. The security code is used by the assembly
plant to access the SKIS for initialization, or by the
dealer technician to access the system for service.
The SKIM also stores in its memory the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), which it learns through
a PCI bus message from the PCM during initializa-
tion.The SKIM and the PCM both use software that
includes a rolling code algorithm strategy, which
helps to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIS
disarming. The rolling code algorithm ensures secu-
rity by preventing an override of the SKIS through
the unauthorized substitution of the SKIM or the
PCM. However, the use of this strategy also means
that replacement of either the SKIM or the PCM
units will require a system initialization procedure to
restore system operation.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START positions, the SKIM transmits an RF signal
to excite the Sentry Key transponder. The SKIM then
listens for a return RF signal from the transponder
of the Sentry Key that is inserted in the ignition lock
cylinder. If the SKIM receives an RF signal with
valid ªSecret Keyº and transponder identification
codes, the SKIM sends a ªvalid keyº message to the
PCM over the PCI bus. If the SKIM receives an
invalid RF signal or no response, it sends ªinvalid
keyº messages to the PCM. The PCM will enable or
disable engine operation based upon the status of the
SKIM messages.
The SKIM also sends messages to the Instrument
Cluster which controls the VTSS indicator LED. The
SKIM sends messages to the Instrument Cluster to
turn the LED on for about three seconds when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a bulb
test. After completion of the bulb test, the SKIM
sends bus messages to keep the LED off for a dura-
tion of about one second. Then the SKIM sends mes-
sages to turn the LED on or off based upon the
results of the SKIS self-tests. If the VTSS indicator
LED comes on and stays on after the bulb test, it
indicates that the SKIM has detected a system mal-
function and/or that the SKIS has become inopera-
tive.
If the SKIM detects an invalid key when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, it sends
messages to flash the VTSS indicator LED. The
SKIM can also send messages to flash the LED as an
indication to the customer that the SKIS has been
placed in it's ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
See Sentry Key Immobilizer System Transponder
Programming in this section for more information on
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
For diagnosis or initialization of the SKIM and the
PCM, a DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual are required. The
SKIM cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged,
the unit must be replaced.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 13
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

NOTE: A maximum of eight keys can be learned to
each SKIM. Once a key is learned to a SKIM, it (the
key) cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
(5) If ignition key programming is unsuccessful,
the DRBIIItscan tool will display one of the follow-
ing messages:
(a) Programming Not Attempted - The DRBIIIt
scan tool attempts to read the programmed key
status and there are no keys programmed into
SKIM memory.
(b) Programming Key Failed (Possible Used Key
From Wrong Vehicle) - SKIM is unable to program
key due to one of the following:
²Faulty ignition key transponder.
²Ignition key is programmed to another vehicle.
(c) 8 Keys Already Learned, Programming Not
Done - SKIM transponder ID memory is full.
(6) Obtain ignition keys to be programmed from
customer (8 keys maximum).
(7) Using the DRBIIItscan tool, erase all ignition
keys by selecting MISCELLANEOUS and ERASE
ALL CURRENT IGN. KEYS.
(8) Program all ignition keys.
Learned Key In Ignition - Ignition key transponder
ID is currently programmed in SKIM memory.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the steering column upper and lower
shrouds. Refer to Steering, Column, Shroud,
Removal.
(3) Disconnect the steering column wire harness
connector from the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM)
(4) Remove the screw securing the SKIM module
to the steering column (Fig. 8).
(5) Release the SKIM antenna ring retaining clips
from around the ignition switch lock cylinder housing
and remove the SKIM.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the SKIM is replaced with a new unit, a
DRBIIITscan tool MUST be used to initialize the
new SKIM and to program at least two Sentry Key
transponders. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE
THEFT SECURITY - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(1) Slide the SKIM antenna ring around the igni-
tion switch lock cylinder housing and clip in place
(Fig. 8).
(2) Install the retaining screw.
(3) Connect the steering column wire harness con-
nector to the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM).(4) Install the steering column upper and lower
shrouds. Refer to Steering, Column, Shroud, Installa-
tion.
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
TRANSFER CASE CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM) (Fig. 9)
is a microprocessor-based assembly, controlling the
4X4 transfer case shift functions via the actuation of
a shift motor and utilizing the feedback of a mode
sensor assembly. Communication is via the PCI serial
bus. Inputs include user selectable 4X4 modes that
include 2WD, 4HI, 4LO, and Neutral. The logic and
driver circuitry is contained in a molded plastic hous-
ing with an embedded heat-sink and is located
behind the left side of the lower instrument panel.
OPERATION
The Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM) utilizes
the input from the transfer case mounted mode sen-
sor, the instrument panel mounted selector switch,
and the following information from the vehicle's PCI
serial bus to determine if a shift is allowed.
²Engine RPM and Vehicle Speed
Fig. 8 SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (SKIM)
1 - SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (SKIM)
2 - STEERING COLUMN
3 - SCREW
4 - WIRING HARNES
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 15
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)

NOTE: If the TCM has been replaced, the ªQuick Learn
Procedureº must be performed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/TRANSMIS-
SION CONTROL MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
BATTERY FEED
A fused, direct battery feed to the TCM is used for
continuous power. This battery voltage is necessary
to retain memory in the TCM. When the battery (B+)
is disconnected, this memory is lost. When the bat-
tery (B+) is restored, this memory loss is detected by
the TCM and a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set.
CLUTCH VOLUME INDEXES (CVI)
An important function of the TCM is to monitor
Clutch Volume Indexes (CVI). CVIs represent the vol-
ume of fluid needed to compress a clutch pack.
The TCM monitors gear ratio changes by monitor-
ing the Input and Output Speed Sensors. The Input,
or Turbine Speed Sensor sends an electrical signal to
the TCM that represents input shaft rpm. The Out-
put Speed Sensor provides the TCM with output
shaft speed information.
By comparing the two inputs, the TCM can deter-
mine transmission gear position. This is important to
the CVI calculation because the TCM determines
CVIs by monitoring how long it takes for a gear
change to occur (Fig. 11).
Gear ratios can be determined by using the
DRBIIItScan Tool and reading the Input/Output
Speed Sensor values in the ªMonitorsº display. Gear
ratio can be obtained by dividing the Input Speed
Sensor value by the Output Speed Sensor value.
For example, if the input shaft is rotating at 1000
rpm and the output shaft is rotating at 500 rpm,
then the TCM can determine that the gear ratio is
2:1. In direct drive (3rd gear), the gear ratio changes
to 1:1. The gear ratio changes as clutches are applied
and released. By monitoring the length of time it
takes for the gear ratio to change following a shift
request, the TCM can determine the volume of fluid
used to apply or release a friction element.
The volume of transmission fluid needed to apply
the friction elements are continuously updated for
adaptive controls. As friction material wears, the vol-
ume of fluid need to apply the element increases.
Certain mechanical problems within the input
clutch assembly can cause inadequate or out-of-range
element volumes. Also, defective Input/Output Speed
Sensors and wiring can cause these conditions. The
following chart identifies the appropriate clutch vol-
umes and when they are monitored/updated:
CLUTCH VOLUMES
Clutch When UpdatedProper Clutch
Volume
L/R2-1 or 3-1
downshift45 to 134
2C3-2 kickdown
shift25 to 85
OD 2-3 upshift 30 to 100
4C 3-4 upshift 30 to 85
UD4-3 kickdown
shift30 to 100
SHIFT SCHEDULES
As mentioned earlier, the TCM has programming that
allows it to select a variety of shift schedules. Shift
schedule selection is dependent on the following:
²Shift lever position
²Throttle position
²Engine load
²Fluid temperature
²Software level
As driving conditions change, the TCM appropri-
ately adjusts the shift schedule. Refer to the follow-
ing chart to determine the appropriate operation
expected, depending on driving conditions.
Fig. 11 Example of CVI Calculation
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - OUTPUT SHAFT
3 - CLUTCH PACK
4 - SEPARATOR PLATE
5 - FRICTION DISCS
6 - INPUT SHAFT
7 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
8 - PISTON AND SEAL
8E - 20 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 19STARTING............................... 28
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................4
INSPECTION...........................6
SPECIFICATIONS........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......7
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......7
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BATTERY
CHARGING...........................8
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BUILT-IN
INDICATOR TEST.....................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................11STANDARD PROCEDURE - USING MICRO
420 BATTERY TESTER.................12
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL.............................14
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
CABLES............................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................17
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................17
OPERATION...........................17
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on gasoline engine equipped mod-
els. Diesel engine equipped vehicles utilize two
12-volt batteries connected in parallel. All of the com-
ponents of the battery system are located within the
engine compartment of the vehicle. The battery sys-
tem for this vehicle, covers the following related com-
ponents, which are covered in further detail later in
this section of the service manual:²Battery- The storage battery provides a reli-
able means of storing a renewable source of electrical
energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cables- The battery cables connect
the battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical
system.
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
DRENGINE SYSTEMS 8F - 1

For battery system maintenance schedules and
jump starting procedures, see the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box. Optionally, refer to the Lubri-
cation and Maintenance section of this manual for
the proper battery jump starting procedure. While
battery charging can be considered a maintenance
procedure, the battery charging procedure and
related information are located later in this section of
the service manual. This was done because the bat-
tery must be fully-charged before any battery system
diagnosis or testing procedures can be performed.
OPERATION
The battery system is designed to provide a safe,
efficient, reliable and mobile means of delivering and
storing electrical energy. This electrical energy is
required to operate the engine starting system, as
well as to operate many of the other vehicle acces-
sory systems for limited durations while the engine
and/or the charging system are not operating. The
battery system is also designed to provide a reserve
of electrical energy to supplement the charging sys-
tem for short durations while the engine is running
and the electrical current demands of the vehicle
exceed the output of the charging system. In addition
to delivering, and storing electrical energy for the
vehicle, the battery system serves as a capacitor and
voltage stabilizer for the vehicle electrical system. It
absorbs most abnormal or transient voltages caused
by the switching of any of the electrical components
or circuits in the vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems in the
vehicle operate with one another and must be tested
as a complete system. In order for the engine to start
and the battery to maintain its charge properly, all of
the components that are used in these systems must
perform within specifications. It is important thatthe battery, starting, and charging systems be thor-
oughly tested and inspected any time a battery needs
to be charged or replaced. The cause of abnormal bat-
tery discharge, overcharging or early battery failure
must be diagnosed and corrected before a battery is
replaced and before a vehicle is returned to service.
The service information for these systems has been
separated within this service manual to make it eas-
ier to locate the specific information you are seeking.
However, when attempting to diagnose any of these
systems, it is important that you keep their interde-
pendency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used for the battery,
starting, and charging systems include the most
basic conventional diagnostic methods, to the more
sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) built into
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an
induction-type milliampere ammeter, a volt/ohmme-
ter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load
tester), a 12-volt test lamp and/or special service
tools may be required. All OBD-sensed systems are
monitored by the PCM. Each monitored circuit is
assigned a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM
will store a DTC in electronic memory for any failure
it detects. Always check the PCM for stored trouble
codes before returning the vehicle to service. Refer to
Charging System for the proper charging system test
procedures. Refer to Starting System for the proper
starting system test procedures.
MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery tester is
designed to help the dealership technician diagnose a
defective battery. Follow the instruction manual sup-
plied with the tester to properly diagnose a battery.
If the instruction manual is not available, refer to
the standard procedure in this section, which
includes the directions for using the Micro 420 bat-
tery tester.
8F - 2 BATTERY SYSTEMDR
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

BATTERY SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
THE BATTERY SEEMS
WEAK OR DEAD WHEN
ATTEMPTING TO START
THE ENGINE.1. The electrical system
ignition-off draw is excessive.1. Refer to the IGNITION-OFF DRAW TEST
Standard Procedure for the proper test
procedures. Repair the excessive ignition-off
draw, as required.
2. The charging system is
faulty.2. Determine if the charging system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Charging System for
additional charging system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty charging system, as
required.
3. The battery is discharged. 3. Determine the battery state-of-charge using the
Micro 420 battery tester. Refer to the Standard
Procedures in this section for additional test
procedures. Charge the faulty battery, as
required.
4. The battery terminal
connections are loose or
corroded.4. Refer to Battery Cables for the proper battery
cable diagnosis and testing procedures. Clean
and tighten the battery terminal connections, as
required.
5. The battery has an
incorrect size or rating for
this vehicle.5. Refer to Battery System Specifications for the
proper size and rating. Replace an incorrect
battery, as required.
6. The battery is faulty. 6. Determine the battery cranking capacity using
the Micro 420 battery tester. Refer to the
Standard Procedures in this section for additional
test procedures. Replace the faulty battery, as
required.
7. The starting system is
faulty.7. Determine if the starting system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Starting System for the
proper starting system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty starting system, as
required.
8. The battery is physically
damaged.8. Inspect the battery for loose terminal posts or a
cracked and leaking case. Replace the damaged
battery, as required.
DRBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 3
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)

BATTERY SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
THE BATTERY STATE OF
CHARGE CANNOT BE
MAINTAINED.1. The battery has an
incorrect size or rating for
this vehicle.1. Refer to Battery System Specifications for the
proper specifications. Replace an incorrect
battery, as required.
2. The battery terminal
connections are loose or
corroded.2. Refer to Battery Cable for the proper cable
diagnosis and testing procedures. Clean and
tighten the battery terminal connections, as
required.
3. The electrical system
ignition-off draw is excessive.3. Refer to the IGNITION-OFF DRAW TEST
Standard Procedure for the proper test
procedures. Repair the faulty electrical system, as
required.
4. The battery is faulty. 4. Test the battery using the Micro 420 battery
tester. Refer to Standard Procedures for
additional test procedures. Replace the faulty
battery, as required.
5. The starting system is
faulty.5. Determine if the starting system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Starting System for the
proper starting system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty starting system, as
required.
6. The charging system is
faulty.6. Determine if the charging system is performing
to specifications. Refer to Charging System for
additional charging system diagnosis and testing
procedures. Repair the faulty charging system, as
required.
7. Electrical loads exceed the
output of the charging
system.7. Inspect the vehicle for aftermarket electrical
equipment which might cause excessive electrical
loads.
8. Slow driving or prolonged
idling with high-amperage
draw systems in use.8. Advise the vehicle operator, as required.
THE BATTERY WILL NOT
ACCEPT A CHARGE.1. The battery is faulty. 1. Test the battery using the Micro 420 battery
tester. Charge or replace the faulty battery, as
required.
ABNORMAL BATTERY DISCHARGING
Any of the following conditions can result in abnor-
mal battery discharging:
1. A faulty or incorrect charging system compo-
nent. Refer to Charging System for additional charg-
ing system diagnosis and testing procedures.
2. A faulty or incorrect battery. Use Micro 420 bat-
tery tester and refer to Battery System for additional
battery diagnosis and testing procedures.
3. A faulty circuit or component causing excessive
ignition-off draw.
4. Electrical loads that exceed the output of the
charging system. This can be due to equipmentinstalled after manufacture, or repeated short trip
use.
5. A faulty or incorrect starting system component.
Refer to Starting System for the proper starting sys-
tem diagnosis and testing procedures.
6. Corroded or loose battery posts and/or terminal
clamps.
7. Slow driving speeds (heavy traffic conditions) or
prolonged idling, with high-amperage draw systems
in use.
CLEANING
The following information details the recommended
cleaning procedures for the battery and related com-
8F - 4 BATTERY SYSTEMDR
BATTERY SYSTEM (Continued)