Decoding Chrysler OBD2 Codes: A Comprehensive Guide for Troubleshooting

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.

  1. Start with the ignition OFF. Ensure your key is out of the ignition or in the “Lock” position.
  2. 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”).
  3. Observe the “Check Engine” Light: The “check engine” light will begin to flash. Count the flashes to decipher the two-digit codes.
  4. 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.

  1. Key and Odometer Reset: Insert the key into the ignition and push and hold down the odometer reset button.
  2. Turn Key to RUN: While holding the odometer reset button, turn the ignition key to the “RUN” position (again, not “Start”).
  3. Release Odometer Button: Release the odometer reset button once the key is in the “RUN” position.
  4. 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).
  5. 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:

  1. Record all codes: When retrieving codes, note down all of them, even if some seem less critical.
  2. Research code definitions: Use reliable resources (like this guide) to understand the meaning of each code.
  3. Prioritize critical codes: Focus on codes related to engine misfires, fuel delivery, or critical sensors first.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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