Section 1 (Engine Controls - Basic Engine Testing - Gasoline): Introduction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 1999 Dodge Ram Wagon, 1999 Dodge Ram Van, 1999 Dodge Pickup, 1999 Dodge Durango, and 1999 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See
COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION before disconnecting battery.
The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a no-start condition.
The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the customer's complaint with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred.
Before entering self-diagnostics, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Most engine control problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.
NOTE:
Perform all voltage tests with a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) with a minimum 10-megohm input impedance, unless stated otherwise in test procedure.