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Need Help?! Read This First!

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Old Jan 4, 2013 | 10:39 AM
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Izero
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Default Need Help?! Read This First!

I am writing this in the hopes that it will become a sticky thread on here, I am also writing this because I saw a lack of such a thread that might better assist new and old members alike.

The purpose of this thread is to outline the information that we need in order to help you solve whatever problem you might be having with your vehicle.

First off before asking for help, use the search option right up along that black bar up above this thread.

Here is the information we require in order to better help you with your problem:

  • Year
  • Model
  • Sub-Model (optional)
  • Engine Size/Displacement
  • Gas or Diesel
  • Current Mileage (estimate is okay)
  • Drive Type
  • COMPLETE List of Modifications/Upgrades
  • List of recent repairs/maintenance
List any DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).


You should start the body of your help thread like this:


Year Model (Sub-Model) Engine Size Gas/Diesel Current Mileage Drive Type


Then follow this information with a complete modification list and a list of recent repairs/maintenance performed.
Alternatively you can update your "garage" with your vehicle(s) and add in all of your modifications right in there. You can click on the following link to update your garage:


https://dodgeforum.com/forum/garage.php?do=addvehicle


--------------------------
Example:


2008 Dodge Ram 1500 (Big Horn) 5.7L Hemi Gasoline 70,000 Miles 4x4

PXXXX - [Insert Code Description]
CXXXX - [Insert Code Description]
UXXXX - [Insert Code Description]

xxxxx brand tuner
xxxxx brand x.x inch Lift
xxxxx brand model # xxxxxx stereo

xxxxx brand cold air intake
xxxxx brand xxxxx exit exhaust system (cat back/axle back/etc)
xxxxx brand headers (Long Tube/Short Tube/Custom/etc.)


I've just had xxxxx part(s) replaced and xxxxxxx maintenance done.

My Problem is.........................


Now for some general tips.

Definitely browse this forum and make sure you post in the area that best fits either your problem or your vehicle, each section and sub-section has descriptions in which tell you exactly what they are intended to be used for.

It also helps when you split your paragraphs up so that people aren't trying to read a wall of text as it turns most readers off.


Also, when choosing a subject title for your thread, make sure you keep it short and precise, for instance:

"PXXX DTC - Car Shakes At Idle... HELP"

When describing noises or shakes do your absolute best to describe under what EXACT circumstances the vehicle exhibits the problem, example:

  • Under what throttle?
  • At Idle?
  • At what speed(s)?
  • Truck has not fully warmed up yet (cold)?
  • Turning xx degrees off center?
  • From a Stop?
  • Coming TO a stop?
Those are just some of the types of questions you need to ask yourself and possibly even get back in the truck and re-create the problem and monitor your actions and the trucks actions closely, until you believe you can accurately describe the problem.


Get Read Out of your DTCs:

Do one of the following:
  • Go to your local auto parts store and ask them to scan for trouble codes for you. (Usually a complete Free service)
  • Many Dodge/Jeep/Chrysler Vehicles allow you to get the DTCs using the key method, in which you can simply turn the key on-off-on-off-on-off-on without starting the vehicle and the codes will read on the odometer screen.
  • Purchase your own scanner and scan for codes

Now there are some codes in which are not always displayed and noted with a check engine light, so you should always check for DTCs even if you don't see a check engine light.
There are also Electrical System codes that will not cause a Check Engine Light to display...



You can check for C-Codes by:

pressing and holding the odometer/trip reset button on your gauge cluster and turn your key to the "ON" position, now those codes will display in an odd order and should be written EXACTLY as they appear!

After you have gathered all of your information, and are able to explain it accurately and precisely give the forums a few search attempts to see if there is a thread in which someone has had or is having the same problem as you.

I have found that the easiest way to do this is if you keep your search terms simple and to the point, or if you have a DTC you can definitely use it to search as well, usually with very good results.

Another great resource is to search for Technical Service Bulletins and Recalls on your specific vehicle, as that might help steer you in the right direction.

If you can't find a thread that matches your problem(s), then start a thread of your own and follow the example(s) above to fully list and outline what the issue is, and don't be afraid to list what steps you've already taken (if any) to attempt to correct the problem.

If you follow this thread as a general guideline you will ensure that you are able to get quick, knowledgeable advise that you can use to start correcting the problems you are having.


Also, keep in mind that this is a FORUM and is not to be considered the know-all-be-all solution center, as we are only a group of enthusiasts and for the most part weekend tinkers/gear heads, so you shouldn't take advise blindly, as a reputable mechanic/dealership will be able to diagnose and troubleshoot your problems much better than we can, as they are able to physically see the problem, and begin the process of real physical troubleshooting.


I hope that this thread helps you, and please report it so that it has a chance at becoming a sticky thread for all to read.
 

Last edited by Izero; Jan 22, 2013 at 12:16 PM.
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Old Jan 22, 2013 | 12:16 PM
  #2  
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Izero
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From: New Jersey
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Bump for Possible Sticky....?
 
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