Description And Operation: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Jeep Renegade. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The microcontroller in the Park Assist Module (PAM) contains the park assist system logic circuits. The PAM uses On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) and can communicate with other electronic modules in the vehicle as well as with the diagnostic scan tool using the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. This method of communication is also used for park assist system diagnosis and testing through the 16-way data link connector located on the driver side lower edge of the instrument panel.

The PAM provides voltage to the four park assist sensors located in the bumper fascia or fascias. The PAM monitors return inputs from each of the sensors on dedicated hard wired data communication circuits. These sensor inputs allow the PAM to determine when an obstacle is in the rear path of the vehicle. When an obstacle is detected the sensor inputs allow the PAM logic to calculate the relative location of the obstacle, and whether the distance to that obstacle is increasing or decreasing.

Pre-programmed decision algorithms and calibrations allow the PAM microcontroller to determine the appropriate park assist system outputs based upon the inputs received from the park assist sensors and electronic messages received from other modules in the vehicle over the CAN data bus. When the programmed conditions are met the PAM sends electronic messages to the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) over the CAN data bus to obtain the proper park assist system audible outputs and textual messages in the IPC display. The PAM also broadcasts electronic messages over the CAN data bus to enable the other electronic features of the park assist system.

The PAM microcontroller continuously monitors all of the park assist system electrical circuits and components to determine the system readiness. If the PAM detects a monitored system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and sends the appropriate electronic messages to the IPC over the CAN data bus to control operation of certain park assist system audible and textual warnings.

The PAM receives battery current on a fused ignition output (run-start) circuit through a fuse in the Power Distribution Center (PDC). The PAM receives ground through a ground circuit and take out of the body wire harness connected to the body sheet metal. These connections allow the PAM to be operational whenever the status of the ignition is Start or On.

The hard wired circuits between components related to the PAM may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin out information and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.

However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the PAM or the electronic controls and communication between modules and other devices that provide some features of the park assist system. The most reliable, efficient and accurate means to diagnose the PAM or the electronic controls and communication related to park assist system operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.