PCM - Reprogramming for Driveability Problems
NUMBER: 18-019-00GROUP: Vehicle Performance
DATE: Oct. 6, 2000
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means. electronic, mechanical, photocopying. or otherwise, without written permission of DaimlerChrysler Corporation.
SUBJECT:
Driveability Improvements
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software.
MODELS:
2000 (PL) Neon
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicles may exhibit the following:
High Altitude Engine Hesitation From A Standing Start - Automatic Transaxle Models
Engine hesitation on an initial tip-in when accelerating very briskly from a standing start. This condition may be exhibited at altitudes above 5000 feet in a fully warmed engine. The throttle position must reach at least 3/4 of full range (but not fully open) very rapidly to duplicate the condition.
High Load Bump/Surge - Automatic Transaxle Models
An irregular bump or surge may be exhibited during moderate to heavy acceleration above 64 kph (40 mph) in 3rd gear with the torque convertor clutch engaged
Engine Buck Bobble Or Bounce And Shake - Manual Transaxle Models
With light throttle tip-ins (1/4 throttle or less) the engine may bounce and shake. This is most noticeable in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd gear.
Light Load Surge - Manual Transaxle Models
A light surge may be experienced during very light acceleration or steady state driving up a slight grade between 1300 and 3000 rpm. It will be most noticeable in 1st or 2nd gear.
Heavy Load Surge - Manual Transaxle Models
A heavy surge may be experienced during moderate to heavy acceleration (but not WOT) in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear between 1750 and 3500 rpm. This will feel similar to driving over a mildly bumpy road.
DIAGNOSIS:
Using the Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS2) and or the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DRB III(R)) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures, verify all engine/transmission systems are functioning as designed. If other Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are present, record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin. If the condition(s) can be duplicated or is described by the customer, perform the Repair Procedure.
NOTE:
WHENEVER A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) IS REPLACED, THE SOFTWARE OF THE REPLACEMENT CONTROLLER MUST BE VERIFIED FOR THE LATEST REVISION LEVEL. USE THE FLASH PROCEDURE TO UPDATE REPLACED CONTROLLERS AS NECESSARY.
PARTS REQUIRED
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
NOTE:
THE MDS2 AND DRB III(R) ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM PART OF THIS REPAIR. THE MDS2 SYSTEM MUST BE OPERATING WITH CIS CD2068 OR HIGHER.
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
1. Log onto the MDS2 System.
2. Connect the MDS2 (Mopar Diagnostic System) and DRB III(R) (Scan Tool) to the vehicle and switch the ignition to "ON".
NOTE:
AUTO CONNECTION WILL OCCUR ONCE THE DRB III(R), MDS2 AND VEHICLE ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION. THE "CANNOT READ VIN FROM DRB III(R)" MESSAGE (ON THE MDS2) WILL BE REPLACED BY THE VEHICLE VIN. PRESS THE "OK" BUTTON ON THE MDS2 TO REQUEST A MDS2 SESSION FOR THE VEHICLE VIN INDICATED. PRESS THE "OK" BUTTON WHEN ASKED TO BEGIN SESSION.
3. Push the FLASH tab on the MDS2.
4. Select READ PART NUMBERS FROM VEHICLE and click SHOW UPDATES on the MDS2.
NOTE:
A MESSAGE MAY APPEAR (AFTER STEP 3 OR 4) THAT INDICATES NO UPDATES ARE AVAILABLE. IF THIS OCCURS, MAKE SURE YOUR DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT IS OPERATING AT THE LATEST SOFTWARE LEVEL AS LISTED EARLIER IN THIS BULLETIN. IF THE LATEST SOFTWARE IS INSTALLED, AND NO UPDATES ARE AVAILABLE, ANOTHER VEHICLE CONDITION EXISTS THAT WILL REQUIRE FURTHER INVESTIGATION.
5. Select the new software part number with the light pen and click UPDATE CONTROLLER SOFTWARE.
6. The MDS2 and DRB III(R) will prompt for any operator action needed during the remainder of the reprogramming process.
7. Type the necessary information on the "authorized Software Update Label" p/n 04669020 (Fig. 1). Attach the label to the PCM and cover the label with the clear plastic overlay.
8. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label" p/n 04275086 (fig. 2) and attach the label near the VECI label.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
No:
FAILURE CODE: Could be one or more