Navigating car troubles can be frustrating, but for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicle owners, the on-board diagnostics (OBD) system is a valuable tool. Understanding Chrysler OBD2 codes can help you pinpoint potential issues, saving you time and money on unnecessary mechanic visits. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to retrieve and interpret these codes, empowering you with essential knowledge for vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting.
Understanding OBD & OBD2 Systems
Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated computer systems that monitor various aspects of engine and vehicle performance. The OBD system, and its more advanced successor OBD2, are standardized systems designed to report issues detected by these computers. Think of it as your car communicating its ailments through a series of codes.
- OBD (On-Board Diagnostics): The original system, used in older vehicles, provided basic diagnostic information. Retrieving these codes often involved methods specific to the manufacturer.
- OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II): A standardized system mandated in the USA for vehicles manufactured from 1996 onwards. OBD2 provides more detailed information and uses standardized diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This standardization makes it easier to diagnose issues across different makes and models.
For Chrysler vehicles, understanding whether you have an OBDI or OBDII system is crucial as the retrieval methods and code lists differ. This guide covers both systems to ensure comprehensive support for a range of Chrysler models.
How to Retrieve Chrysler OBD Codes (Key Trick)
Chrysler vehicles offer a unique “key trick” method to retrieve OBD codes without needing a dedicated scan tool for older models. While newer models may display codes on the odometer, the key trick can still be a handy alternative or a fallback method.
For Older (OBDI) Chrysler Models
This method applies to older Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles, typically pre-1996 models.
- Start with the ignition OFF. Ensure your key is out of the ignition or in the “Lock” position.
- Perform the “Key Trick”: Within five seconds, cycle the ignition key between the “ON” and “OFF” positions three times, ending in the “ON” position. Specifically: ON – OFF – ON – OFF – ON. (Remember “ON” is not “Start”, and “OFF” is not “Lock”).
- Observe the “Check Engine” Light: The “check engine” light will begin to flash. Count the flashes to decipher the two-digit codes.
- Decoding the Flashes: Each code is represented by a sequence of flashes. For example, code 23 would be FLASH FLASH (pause) FLASH FLASH FLASH (long pause). A “long pause” separates the codes. It’s important to note that codes are not repeated, and code 55 (End of Codes) is normal and indicates the system has finished displaying codes. Be patient and watch for the pauses to correctly identify each code.
For Newer (OBDII) Chrysler Models
Newer Chrysler vehicles (generally 1996 and newer) are equipped with OBDII systems. While a standard OBD2 scanner is the most common tool, you can often retrieve codes directly through the odometer display.
- Key and Odometer Reset: Insert the key into the ignition and push and hold down the odometer reset button.
- Turn Key to RUN: While holding the odometer reset button, turn the ignition key to the “RUN” position (again, not “Start”).
- Release Odometer Button: Release the odometer reset button once the key is in the “RUN” position.
- Observe Odometer Display: The odometer will go through a self-test sequence, displaying “111111” to “999999,” followed by the vehicle’s serial number. After this, it will display any stored error codes. Codes may be prefixed with “P” (for Powertrain codes).
- If OBDII Method Fails: If the odometer method doesn’t work, try the OBDI “key trick” method described above, as some newer models may still respond to this technique.
Chrysler OBD Code List
Important Disclaimer: The following code lists are extensive but may not be exhaustive. Code definitions can sometimes vary slightly depending on the specific Chrysler model and year. This list is intended as a troubleshooting aid and not a definitive repair manual. Always consult a qualified mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repairs. Keep in mind that a code indicates a potential problem area, but the root cause may be different from what the code initially suggests. For example, a sensor code might be triggered by a wiring issue rather than a faulty sensor itself.
Older Chrysler OBD (OBDI) Codes
Code | Description |
---|---|
11 | No ignition reference signal detected during cranking OR timing belt skipped one or more teeth; OR loss of camshaft or crankshaft sensor. |
12 | Battery or computer recently disconnected |
13 | MAP sensor or vacuum line may not be working |
14 | MAP sensor voltage below .16V or over 4.96V |
15 | No speed/distance sensor signal |
16 | Loss of battery voltage detected with engine running |
17 | Engine stays cool too long (bad thermostat or coolant sensor?) OR (1985 turbo only): knock sensor circuit |
21 | Oxygen sensor signal doesn’t change (stays at 4.3-4.5V). Probably bad oxygen sensor |
22 | Coolant sensor signal out of range – May have been disconnected to set timing |
23 | Incoming air temperature sensor may be bad |
24 | Throttle position sensor over 4.96V |
25 | Automatic Idle Speed (AIS) motor driver circuit shorted or target idle not reached |
26 | Peak injector circuit voltage has not been reached (need to check computer signals, voltage reg, injectors) |
27 | Injector circuit isn’t switching when it’s told to (TBI) OR (MPI) injector circuit #1 not switching right OR (turbo) injector circuit #2 not switching right OR (all 1990-) injector output driver not responding – check computer, connections |
31 | Bad evaporator purge solenoid circuit or driver |
32 | (1984 only) power loss/limited lamp or circuit OR 32 EGR gases not working (1988) – check vacuum, valve OR 32 (1990-92) computer didn’t see change in air/’fuel ratio when EGR activated – check valve, vacuum lines, and EGR electrical |
33 | Air conditioning clutch relay circuit open or shorted (may be in the wide-open-throttle cutoff circuit or normal on early 80’s models if you don’t have air conditioning) |
34 | (1984-86) EGR solenoid circuit shorted or open OR 34 (1987-1991) speed control shorted or open |
35 | Cooling fan relay circuit open or shorted OR 35 idle switch motor fault – check connections |
36 | (turbo only) Wastegate control circuit open or shorted |
37 | Shift indicator light failure, 5-speed OR part throttle lock/unlock solenoid driver circuit (87-89) OR solenoid coil circuit (85-87 Turbo only) OR Trans temperature sensor voltage low (1995 and on) |
41 | Alternator field control circuit open or shorted |
42 | Automatic shutdown relay circuit open or shorted OR 42 Fuel pump relay control circuit OR 42 Fuel level unit – no change over miles OR 42 Z1 voltage missing when autoshutdown circuit energized (The Z1 voltage is the voltage of the circuits fed by the autoshutdown relay. This typically includes fuel pump and switched-battery feed to the ignition coil) |
43 | Peak primary coil current not achieved with max dwell time OR 43 Cylinder misfire OR 43 Problem in power module to logic module interface |
44 | No FJ2 voltage present at logic board OR 44 Logic module self-diagnostics indicate problem OR 44 Battery temperature out of range |
45 | Turbo boost limit exceeded (engine was shut down by logic module) |
46 | Battery voltage too high during charging or charging system voltage too low |
47 | Battery voltage too low and alternator output too low |
51 | Oxygen sensor stuck at lean position (this may be tripped by a bad MAP sensor system causing a rich condition. If you get hot rough idle and stalling, especially on deceleration, accompanied by flooded engine and difficulty restarting, that can be a bad MAP sensor causing the O2 sensor to try to compensate. If you get poor cold driveability, stumbling and bucking, and acceptable warm driving with poor gas mileage (a drop of 10 mpg or more), that is usually the O2 sensor. OR 51 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only). |
52 | Oxygen sensor stuck at rich position OR 52 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only) |
53 | Logic module internal problem |
54 | No sync pickup signal during engine rotation (turbo only) OR 54 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only) – or camshaft sensor/distributor timing |
55 | End of codes |
61 | “Baro” sensor open or shorted |
62 | EMR mileage cannot be stored in EEPROM OR PCM failure SRI mile not stored |
63 | Controller cannot write to EEPROM |
64 | Catalytic converter efficiency failure |
65 | Power steering switch failure |
66 | No CCD Message From TCM and/or No CCD Message From BCM |
Newer Chrysler OBD (OBDII) Codes
Code | Description |
---|---|
P030 | Sensor heater relay problem |
P036 | Sensor heater relay problem |
P0106 | MAP sensor voltage out of range detected at startup |
P0107 | MAP sensor voltage too low |
P0108 | MAP sensor voltage too high |
P0112 | Intake air temperature sensor voltage low |
P0113 | Intake air (charge) temperature sensor voltage high |
P0116 | Coolant temperature sensor reading doesn’t make sense |
P0117 | Engine coolant temperature sensor voltage low |
P0118 | Engine coolant temperature sensor voltage high |
P0121 | Throttle position sensor and MAP sensor disagree with each other |
P0122 | Throttle position sensor voltage low |
P0123 | Throttle position sensor voltage high |
P0125 | Taking too long to reach proper operating temperature and switch to energy-efficient mode |
P0130 | Sensor heater relay problem OR O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0131 | O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0132 | O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0133 | O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0134 | O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0135 | O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1) |
P0136 | O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0137 | O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0138 | O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0139 | O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0140 | O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0141 | O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2) |
P0142 | O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 3) |
P0143 | O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3) |
P0144 | O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3) |
P0145 | O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 3) |
P0146 | O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 3) |
P0147 | Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly) |
P0151 | Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to ground? |
P0152 | Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to active 12V? |
P0153 | Oxygen sensor response too slow |
P0154 | Oxygen sensor does not show either a rich or lean condition – may need replacement |
P0155 | Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly) |
P0157 | Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to ground? |
P0158 | Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to active 12V? |
P0159 | Oxygen sensor response too slow |
P0160 | Oxygen sensor does not show either a rich or lean condition – may need replacement |
P0161 | Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly) |
P0171 | The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too lean (too much fuel is being added as a correction). |
P0172 | The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too rich (too much air is being added as a correction). |
P0174 | The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too lean (too much fuel is being added as a correction). |
P0175 | The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too rich (too much air is being added as a correction). |
P0176 | Flex fuel sensor can’t be seen |
P0178 | Flex fuel sensor problem |
P0179 | Flex fuel sensor problem |
P0182 | Compressed natural gas temperature sensor problem |
P0183 | Compressed natural gas temperature sensor problem |
P0201 | Injector #1 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0202 | Injector #2 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0203 | Injector #3 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0204 | Injector #4 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0205 | Injector #5 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0206 | Injector #6 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0207 | Injector #7 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0208 | Injector #8 control circuit problem (open or shorted) |
P0300 | Misfire detected in multiple cylinders. |
P0301 | Misfire detected in cylinder #1. |
P0302 | Misfire detected in cylinder #2. |
P0303 | Misfire detected in cylinder #3. |
P0304 | Misfire detected in cylinder #4. |
P0305 | Misfire detected in cylinder #5. |
P0306 | Misfire detected in cylinder #6. |
P0307 | Misfire detected in cylinder #7 |
P0308 | Misfire detected in cylinder #8. |
P0320 | Crankshaft position sensor reference signal cannot be found while the engine is cranking. |
P0325 | Knock sensor (#1) signal is wrong. |
P0330 | Knock sensor (#2) signal is wrong. |
P0340 | No camshaft signal being received by the computer |
P0350 | A coil is drawing too much current. |
P0351 | Coil #1 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0352 | Coil #2 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0353 | Coil #3 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0354 | Coil #4 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0355 | Coil #5 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0356 | Coil #6 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0357 | Coil #7 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0358 | Coil #8 is not reaching peak current at the right time |
P0401 | A required change in air/fuel mixture was not detected during diagnostic test. |
P0403 | An problem was detected in the EGR solenoid control circuit. |
P0404 | The EGR sensor’s reported position makes no sense |
P0405 | EGR position sensor voltage wrong. |
P0406 | EGR position sensor voltage wrong. |
P0412 | The secondary air solenoid control circuit seems bad (this is used for the aspirator). |
P0420 | The catalyst seems inefficient (#1). |
P0432 | The catalyst seems inefficient (#2). |
P0441 | Evaporative purge flow system not working properly |
P0442 | A leak has been detected in the evaporative system! |
P0443 | Evaporative purge flow system solenoid not working properly |
P0455 | A large leak has been detected in the evaporative system! |
P0456 | A small leak has been detected in the evaporative system! |
P0460 | The fuel level sender is not reporting any change over a long distance. Something seems wrong. |
P0461 | The fuel level sender is not reporting any change over a long time. Something seems wrong. |
P0462 | Fuel level sender voltage wrong. |
P0463 | Fuel level sender voltage wrong. |
P0500 | Haven’t heard from the speed sensor lately. |
P0505 | The idle speed air control motor doesn’t seem to be working correctly. |
P0522 | Oil pressure sensor problems |
P0523 | Oil pressure sensor problems |
P0551 | The power steering switch may not be working. (Neons: high pressure is showing up at high speed) |
P0600 | Oh-oh! The coprocessors aren’t talking to each other within the computer! |
P0601 | Internal computer error! |
P0604 | Internal computer error! (RAM check) |
P0605 | Internal computer error! (ROM) |
P0615 | Starter relay circuit problem |
P0622 | Generator field control problem |
P0645 | A/C clutch relay circuit problem. |
P0700 | The automatic transmission computer or Aisin computer has a problem – ask it what’s going on. I don’t know. |
P0703 | Brake switch circuit information seems wrong. |
P0711 | Based on the transmission temperature and its operations, it looks like the transmission temperature sensor’s gone bad. |
P0712 | Transmission fluid temperature sensor voltage wrong. |
P0713 | Transmission fluid temperature sensor voltage wrong. |
P0720 | The Output Shaft Speed Sensor doesn’t match the reported vehicle speed. |
P0740 | The engine’s running faster than it should for these speeds, so I think the torque converter clutch lock-up system is bad |
P0743 | Torque converter clutch (part throttle unlock) solenoid circuit problem – shift solenoid C electrical fault |
P0748 | Governor Pressure Solenoid circuit problem (Transmission relay circuit problem in Jeep RE transmissions) |
P0751 | Overdrive override switch has been pressed for over five minutes. Just thought you should know. |
P0753 | Overdrive solenoid control circuit problem (transmission relay circuit in Jeep RE transmissions.) |
P0756 | Shift solenoid B (2-3) fault |
P0783 | The overdrive solenoid can’t go from 3rd gear to the overdrive gear. |
P0801 | Transmission reverse gear lockout solenoid circuit problem! |
P0833 | Problem with the clutch-released switch circuit? |
P1192 | Inlet air temperature sensor voltage is wrong |
P1193 | Inlet air temperature sensor voltage is wrong |
P1194 | Oxygen sensor heater performance is faulty |
P1195 | Oxygen sensor is slow |
P1196 | The oxygen sensor switched too slowly (bank 2). |
P1197 | The oxygen sensor switched too slowly (bank 1). |
P1198 | Radiator coolant temperature sensor voltage is wrong. |
P1199 | Radiator coolant temperature sensor voltage is wrong. |
P1281 | The engine is staying cold too long – check your thermostat. |
P1282 | The fuel pump relay circuit seems to be having a problem. |
P1288 | The intake manifold short runner tuning valve circuit seems to be having a problem. |
P1289 | There’s a problem in the manifold tuning valve solenoid control circuit. |
P1290 | Compressed natural gas system pressure is too high |
P1291 | The heated air intake sensor does not seem to be working. |
P1292 | Natural gas pressure sensor issue |
P1293 | Natural gas pressure sensor issue |
P1294 | Can’t get to target engine speed, check for vacuum leaks and idle speed motor issues. |
P1295 | The throttle position sensor doesn’t seem to be getting enough electricity. |
P1296 | The MAP sensor doesn’t seem to be getting enough electricity. |
P1297 | The MAP sensor doesn’t change its reading when the engine is running! |
P1298 | During wide-open throttle, the engine runs lean. |
P1299 | MAP Sensor and Throttle Position Sensor signals don’t match, check for a vacuum leak. |
P1388 | Auto shutdown relay circuit problems? |
P1389 | No Z1 or Z2 voltage seen by the computer when the auto shutdown relay is used. |
P1390 | Cam and crank signals don’t match – did the timing belt skip a tooth? |
P1391 | Sometimes, I can’t see the crank or cam sensor signal. |
P1398 | I can see the Crank Sensor’s signal when I prepare for Misfire Diagnostics. Try replacing it. |
P1399 | Problem in the Wait to Start Lamp circuit – (diesels only?) |
P1403 | EGR position sensor not getting (enough) voltage. |
P1476 | Too little secondary air injection during aspirator test. |
P1477 | Too much secondary air injection during aspirator test. |
P1478 | Battery temperature sensor voltage wrong. |
P1479 | Transmission fan relay circuit problems? |
P1480 | PCV solenoid circuit problems? |
P1481 | Transmission RPM pulse generator signal for misfire detection seems wrong. |
P1482 | Catalyst temperature sensor circuit shorted low. |
P1483 | Catalyst temperature sensor circuit shorted high. |
P1484 | The catalyst seems to be overheating! |
P1485 | Air injection solenoid circuit problems. |
P1486 | Pinched or blocked hose in the evaporative hose system. |
P1487 | Control circuit of the #2 high-speed radiator fan control relay is having problems. |
P1488 | Auxiliary 5-volt sensor feed is too low. |
P1489 | High speed radiator fan control circuit problem. |
P1490 | Low speed radiator fan control circuit problem. |
P1491 | Radiator fan control circuit problem (may be solid state relays as well as other circuits). |
P1492 | Ambient or battery temperature sensor voltage wrong |
P1493 | Ambient or battery temperature sensor voltage wrong |
P1494 | Leak Detection Pump (LDP) pressure switch problem – electrical or the pump itself. |
P1495 | Leak Detection Pump (LDP) pressure switch problem – the solenoid circuit. |
P1496 | Sensor feed is below an acceptable limit. (under 4v for 4 seconds – should be 5v). |
P1498 | High speed radiator fan control circuit problem. (#3 control relay) |
P1594 | Voltage too high in charging system. |
P1595 | Speed control vacuum or vent solenoid control circuits shorted or lost. |
P1596 | Speed control switch always high |
P1597 | Speed control switch always low |
P1598 | A/C pressure sensor voltage high |
P1599 | A/C pressure sensor voltage low |
P1681 | No messages received from the cluster control module (dashboard computer). |
P1682 | Charging system doesn’t seem to be working well. Check alternator, etc. |
P1683 | Speed control servo power control circuit problem. |
P1684 | The battery has been disconnected within the last 50 starts. |
P1685 | Invalid key received from the Smart Key Immobilizer Module. |
P1686 | No messages received from the Smart Key Immobilizer Module. |
P1687 | No messages received from the Mechanical Instrument Cluster module. |
P1693 | The companion engine control module has shown a fault. |
P1694 | No messages received from the powertrain control module-Aisin transmission. |
P1695 | No messages received from the body control module. |
P1696 | Unsuccessful attempt to write to an EEPROM location! |
P1697 | Unsuccessful attempt to update Service Reminder Indicator (SRI or EMR) mileage! |
P1698 | No messages received from the electronic transmission control module or the Aisin transmission controller. |
P1719 | Transmission 2-3 gear lockout solenoid control circuit problem. |
P1740 | Either the tcc solenoid or overdrive solenoid systems doesn’t seem to be making much sense. |
P1756 | Transmission control pressure not equal to target. (Mid pressure problem) |
P1757 | Transmission control pressure not equal to target. (Zero pressure problem) |
P1762 | The Governor Pressure Sensor input was too high or too low for 3 consecutive park/neutral calibrations. |
P1763 | The Governor Pressure Sensor input is too high |
P1764 | The Governor Pressure Sensor input is too low. |
P1765 | Open or short in the Transmission Relay control circuit. |
P1899 | The Park/Neutral switch seems to be stuck! |
Using OBD Codes for Effective Troubleshooting
Chrysler OBD codes are invaluable for pointing you in the right direction when your vehicle experiences a problem. However, it’s crucial to understand their limitations:
- Codes are not definitive diagnoses: A code indicates a potential issue in a system or component. Further investigation is always needed to pinpoint the exact cause.
- Multiple codes can be related: One underlying problem can trigger a cascade of codes. Addressing the primary issue might resolve multiple codes simultaneously.
- Sensor issues vs. System issues: A sensor code might indicate a faulty sensor, but it could also be triggered by a problem in the system the sensor is monitoring (e.g., a vacuum leak causing an O2 sensor code).
- “Limp Mode”: In severe cases, the computer might activate “Limp In” mode to protect the engine. This can manifest as reduced power or loss of gears in automatic transmissions. While it allows you to move the vehicle, it’s a sign of a serious issue requiring immediate attention.
Best Practices for Using Chrysler OBD Codes:
- Record all codes: When retrieving codes, note down all of them, even if some seem less critical.
- Research code definitions: Use reliable resources (like this guide) to understand the meaning of each code.
- Prioritize critical codes: Focus on codes related to engine misfires, fuel delivery, or critical sensors first.
- Visual Inspection: Before replacing parts, perform a thorough visual inspection of the affected system. Check for loose connections, damaged wiring, vacuum leaks, and other obvious issues.
- Professional Diagnosis: If you’re uncomfortable with auto repair or the problem persists, consult a certified mechanic. OBD codes are a starting point, and professional technicians have the tools and expertise to accurately diagnose and repair complex vehicle issues.
Conclusion
Understanding and utilizing Chrysler OBD2 codes can significantly empower you in maintaining your vehicle. By following the retrieval methods and understanding the code definitions provided in this guide, you can take a proactive approach to vehicle troubleshooting. Remember, OBD codes are a powerful aid for identifying potential problems, but professional diagnosis is crucial for accurate repairs and ensuring the longevity and reliable performance of your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM vehicle.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional automotive diagnosis and repair. Always consult a qualified mechanic for any vehicle issues.
Source: Code list adapted from a post by ThePhantum on JeepHorizons.com.