malfunction light and shifting
Thread Starter
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2
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malfunction light and shifting
I have a 2003 2500 with a Hemi and around 21500 miles on it. The other day I was coming back home doing about 70 or so with the cruise on when suddenly the the malfunction light came on for about 2 seconds. During this time, the cruise control kicked out and all the gauge needles dropped but then when back to their regular running positions after about 2-3 seconds. This is the 2nd time it has happened in a year. Is this normal or is there a bigger issue?
During the winter, the truck won't shift out of, I think, 3rd gear until it seems it has warmed up. I can do 45-50 mph at about 2000 RPM. Is this something Dodge built into the truck...............a way of it building up heat or something?? Any help with these would be greatly appreciated.
During the winter, the truck won't shift out of, I think, 3rd gear until it seems it has warmed up. I can do 45-50 mph at about 2000 RPM. Is this something Dodge built into the truck...............a way of it building up heat or something?? Any help with these would be greatly appreciated.
Champion
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,703
Likes: 2
From: Bremen, GA.
RE: malfunction light and shifting
hope this helps with the Dakota
ACTUATOR TEST
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the indicators are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will position each of the gauge needles at various calibration points and illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) unit.
Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. However, there may still be a problem with the CAN data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Front Control Module (FCM), the Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB), or the hard wired inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a diagnostic scan tool to diagnose these components. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Begin the test with the ignition switch in the Off position.
Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the On position, but do not start the engine.
Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
The instrument cluster will simultaneously begin to illuminate all of the operational segments in the VFD unit, and perform a bulb check of each operational LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indicators remain illuminated as each gauge needle is swept to several calibration points and back. If a VFD segment or an LED indicator fails to illuminate, or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the calibration points and back during this test, the instrument cluster must be replaced.
The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and return to normal operation at the completion of the test. The actuator test will be aborted if the ignition switch is turned to the Off position, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from the PCM over the CAN data bus during the test.
ACTUATOR TEST
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the indicators are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will position each of the gauge needles at various calibration points and illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) unit.
Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. However, there may still be a problem with the CAN data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Front Control Module (FCM), the Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB), or the hard wired inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a diagnostic scan tool to diagnose these components. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Begin the test with the ignition switch in the Off position.
Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the On position, but do not start the engine.
Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
The instrument cluster will simultaneously begin to illuminate all of the operational segments in the VFD unit, and perform a bulb check of each operational LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indicators remain illuminated as each gauge needle is swept to several calibration points and back. If a VFD segment or an LED indicator fails to illuminate, or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the calibration points and back during this test, the instrument cluster must be replaced.
The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and return to normal operation at the completion of the test. The actuator test will be aborted if the ignition switch is turned to the Off position, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from the PCM over the CAN data bus during the test.
Champion
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,703
Likes: 2
From: Bremen, GA.
RE: malfunction light and shifting
Heres the same thing for the 03 Hemi
ACTUATOR TEST
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG, PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the indicators are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will position each of the gauge needles at various calibration points, illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) units, turn all of the indicators on and off again, display any Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) information, and display the number of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the DTC was detected. It is suggested that a note pad and pencil be used to write down any fault information that is displayed during the test for reference.
Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. However, there may still be a problem with the PCI data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Engine Control Module (ECM), the Front Control Module (FCM), the Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), the Airbag Control Module (ACM), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB), or the inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a DRBIII® scan tool to diagnose these components. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Begin the test with the ignition switch in the Off position.
Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the On position, but do not start the engine.
Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
The instrument cluster will simultaneously illuminate all of the operational segments in both VFD units, perform a bulb check of each operational LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indicators remain illuminated as each gauge needle is swept to several calibration points and back. If a VFD segment or an LED indicator fails to illuminate, or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the calibration points and back during this test, the instrument cluster must be replaced. Following these tests, the actuator test will proceed as described in Step 6.
The text “C Code†is displayed in the odometer VFD for about three seconds. If there is no stored fault information, the display will show two pairs of zeroes in the format “00†“00â€, which indicate that the display of fault information is done. If there is stored fault information, two sets of two-digit alpha and alpha-numeric fault codes will appear in the odometer display for a three second interval. The first pair of digits represents a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), or fault code for the instrument cluster. The second pair of digits is a counter for the number of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the displayed DTC was set. The instrument cluster will continue to display additional sets of two pairs of digits at three second intervals until all of the stored codes have been displayed, which is again signaled by a code of “00†“00â€. Refer to the Instrument Cluster Failure Message table for a description of each fault code that the instrument cluster displays. If an instrument cluster fault is displayed, use a DRBIII® scan tool to diagnose the problem. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information. INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE MESSAGE
Fault Code Description Correction
01 Airbag warning indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
02 Airbag warning indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
03 ABS indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
04 ABS indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
05 MIL indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
06 MIL indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
07 Wait to start indicator circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
08 Wait to start indicator circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
0B BTSI output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
22 Headlamp switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
23 Headlamp switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
24 Turn hazard switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
25 Turn hazard swiitch inpot circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
27 Courtesy/dome output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
28 Glovebox/map lamp output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
29 Cargo lamp output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
40 Wiper switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
41 Wiper switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
42 Wash/beam input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
60 Passenger door lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
61 Passenger door lock switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
62 Passenger door lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
63 Driver door lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
64 Driver door lock switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
65 Driver door lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
66 All door lock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
67 All door unlock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
68 Driver door unlock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
6C Driver cylinder lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
6E Driver cylinder lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
80 Incorrect odometer value found. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
81 Remote radio switch input circuit high. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
82 Remote radio switch stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A0 Internal module FLASH memory checksum failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A1 Internal module bootloader failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A3 Battery voltage open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A5 TCCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A7 VIN checksum error. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A8 VIN previously stored. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A9 PCI bus internal failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AA PCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AB TCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AC ABS messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AD FCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AE ACM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AF SKIM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
B0 RKE fob batteries low. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
B1 RKE module communication link. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
00 Done All Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) have been displayed.
The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and return to normal operation at the completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned to the Off position during the test, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from the PCM over the PCI data bus during the test.
Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if necessary.
ACTUATOR TEST
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG, PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the indicators are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will position each of the gauge needles at various calibration points, illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) units, turn all of the indicators on and off again, display any Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) information, and display the number of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the DTC was detected. It is suggested that a note pad and pencil be used to write down any fault information that is displayed during the test for reference.
Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. However, there may still be a problem with the PCI data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Engine Control Module (ECM), the Front Control Module (FCM), the Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), the Airbag Control Module (ACM), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB), or the inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a DRBIII® scan tool to diagnose these components. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Begin the test with the ignition switch in the Off position.
Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the On position, but do not start the engine.
Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
The instrument cluster will simultaneously illuminate all of the operational segments in both VFD units, perform a bulb check of each operational LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indicators remain illuminated as each gauge needle is swept to several calibration points and back. If a VFD segment or an LED indicator fails to illuminate, or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the calibration points and back during this test, the instrument cluster must be replaced. Following these tests, the actuator test will proceed as described in Step 6.
The text “C Code†is displayed in the odometer VFD for about three seconds. If there is no stored fault information, the display will show two pairs of zeroes in the format “00†“00â€, which indicate that the display of fault information is done. If there is stored fault information, two sets of two-digit alpha and alpha-numeric fault codes will appear in the odometer display for a three second interval. The first pair of digits represents a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), or fault code for the instrument cluster. The second pair of digits is a counter for the number of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the displayed DTC was set. The instrument cluster will continue to display additional sets of two pairs of digits at three second intervals until all of the stored codes have been displayed, which is again signaled by a code of “00†“00â€. Refer to the Instrument Cluster Failure Message table for a description of each fault code that the instrument cluster displays. If an instrument cluster fault is displayed, use a DRBIII® scan tool to diagnose the problem. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information. INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE MESSAGE
Fault Code Description Correction
01 Airbag warning indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
02 Airbag warning indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
03 ABS indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
04 ABS indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
05 MIL indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
06 MIL indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
07 Wait to start indicator circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
08 Wait to start indicator circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
0B BTSI output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
22 Headlamp switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
23 Headlamp switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
24 Turn hazard switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
25 Turn hazard swiitch inpot circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
27 Courtesy/dome output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
28 Glovebox/map lamp output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
29 Cargo lamp output circuit shorted or open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
40 Wiper switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
41 Wiper switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
42 Wash/beam input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
60 Passenger door lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
61 Passenger door lock switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
62 Passenger door lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
63 Driver door lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
64 Driver door lock switch input circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
65 Driver door lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
66 All door lock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
67 All door unlock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
68 Driver door unlock output circuit shorted to ground or voltage. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
6C Driver cylinder lock switch input circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
6E Driver cylinder lock switch input circuit stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
80 Incorrect odometer value found. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
81 Remote radio switch input circuit high. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
82 Remote radio switch stuck. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A0 Internal module FLASH memory checksum failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A1 Internal module bootloader failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A3 Battery voltage open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A5 TCCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A7 VIN checksum error. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A8 VIN previously stored. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
A9 PCI bus internal failure. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AA PCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AB TCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AC ABS messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AD FCM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AE ACM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
AF SKIM messages not received. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
B0 RKE fob batteries low. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
B1 RKE module communication link. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
00 Done All Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) have been displayed.
The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and return to normal operation at the completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned to the Off position during the test, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from the PCM over the PCI data bus during the test.
Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if necessary.
Thread Starter
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From:
RE: malfunction light and shifting
I suggested flashing the chips to see if that would correct any of the issues. I even attached copies of the comments from here so that they could see what others are saying. I was told that they can't flash the chips unless a code shows up or that they have an update of somekind from Dodge that says to. Any ideas here as to what to do next?
Amateur
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
From: Philippi, WV
RE: malfunction light and shifting
Are there any more tricks to run diagnostic tests on my 2002 Ram 1500, 5.9L. I have a check engine light that is on continuously and am also having alot of slipping problems with my tranny.
Trending Topics
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
RE: malfunction light and shifting
Backdraft...... I had a similar problem. I borowed a code reader from an autoparts store and got the code. I think O'riley and Autozone both lend them out. It was a P0720 code. Here is the thread on how I got it fixed.
https://dodgeforum.com/m_214491/tm.htm
https://dodgeforum.com/m_214491/tm.htm
