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Engine Controls - MIL ON/DTC's P0128/P2181

NUMBER: 18-017-07

GROUP: Vehicle Performance

DATE: March 2, 2007

THE StarSCAN(R) FLASH FILES FOR THIS BULLETIN MUST BE RETRIEVED FROM THE INTERNET.

StarSCAN(R) SOFTWARE LEVEL MUST BE AT RELEASE 7.03 OR HIGHER FOR THIS BULLETIN.

SUBJECT:
Flash: MIL Illumination with DTC's P0128 or P2181

OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software.

MODELS:

2007 (JS) Sebring

2008 (JS) Avenger

NOTE:
This bulletin applies to models equipped with a 2.0L or 2.4L engine (Sales Codes ECN or ED3) built prior to March 5, 2007 (MDH 0305XX).

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicle operators may experience MIL illumination after a cold start with long idle time, (greater than 20 minutes). This is usually accompanied with minimal accessory loads. No other symptoms will be experienced.

The technician may find the following DTC's:

^ P0128-Thermostat Rationality

^ P2181-Cooling System Performance

The DTC's may be intermittent and may be difficult to duplicate.

DIAGNOSIS:

Using a Scan Tool (StarSCAN(R)) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures available in TechCONNECT, verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTC's other than those listed above are present record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.

If MIL illumination with DTC P0128 or P2181 is present, perform the Repair Procedure.





PARTS REQUIRED:





SPECIAL TOOLS / EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:

REPAIR PROCEDURE - USING THE INTERNET TO RETRIEVE THE FLASH FILE:

CAUTION:
DO NOT START THE ENGINE PRIOR TO COMPLETING STEP 5n. IF THE PROCEDURE IS NOT ADHERED TO THE CONTROLLERS MAY NOT COMPLETE THE PROGRAMMING PROCESS.

NOTE:
When performing this Repair Procedure, the software release level in the StarSCAN(R); must be programmed with 7.03 software or higher. The software release level is visible in the blue header at the top of the StarSCAN(R) screen.

NOTE:
The StarSCAN(R) diagnostic scan tool fully supports Internet connectivity. However, to take advantage of this feature you must first configure the StarSCAN(R) for your dealership's network. Make sure the StarSCAN� is configured to the dealership's network before proceeding. For instruction on setting up your StarSCAN� for the dealer's network refer to either:

"DealerCONNECT > Service > StarSCAN and StarMOBILE tools > Online Documentation", or refer to the StarSCAN(R) Quick Start Networking Guide. The StarSCAN(R) Quick Start Networking Guide is also available on the website under the "Download Center".

NOTE:
If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash should be restarted.

1. Install a battery charger and verify that the charging rate provides approximately 13.5 volts. Set the battery charger to continuous charge. Do not allow the charger to time out during the flash process. Remove the charger from the battery when the flash process is complete.

2. Connect the CH9410 StarSCAN(R) ethernet cable to the StarSCAN(R) and the dealer's network drop.

3. Connect the CH9404 StarSCAN(R) vehicle cable to the StarSCAN(R) and the vehicle.

4. Power ON the StarSCAN(R).

5. Using the StarSCAN(R) at the "Home" screen:

a. Select "ECU View"

b. Touch the screen to highlight the PCM in the list of modules.

c. Select "More Options"

d. Select "ECU Flash"

e. Record the part number at the top of the "Flash PCM" screen for later reference.

f. Select "Browse for New File". Follow the on screen instructions.

g. Select "Download to Scantool".

h. Select "Close" after the download is complete, then select "Back".

i. Highlight the listed calibration.

j. Select "Update Controller". Follow on screen instructions.

k. When the update is complete, select "OK".

l. Verify the part number at the top of the "Flash PCM" screen has updated to the new part number.

m. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position for no less than 15 seconds.

n. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position (DO NOT CRANK THE ENGINE) for no less than 20 seconds.

CAUTION:
DO NOT START THE ENGINE PRIOR TO COMPLETING 5n. IF THE PROCEDURE IS NOT ADHERED TO THE CONTROLLER MAY NOT COMPLETE THE PROGRAMMING PROCESS.

NOTE:
Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules within the vehicle. Some DTC's may cause the MIL to illuminate. From the "Home" screen select "System View". Then select "All DTCs". Press "Clear All Stored DTCs" if there are any DTCs shown on the list.

NOTE:
The following step is required by law when reprogramming a PCM and/or TCM.





6. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label" p/n 04275086AB and attach near the VECI label (Fig. 1).

POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.





TIME ALLOWANCE:





FAILURE CODE:

Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.