QuestionQUESTION: I have a 98 sebring. Car acted liked it wanted to start. Turning over but not connecting. Towed to dealer. Say I need a PCM. I have read on several of these sites to get 2nd opinion. Can't since it won't start. Help
ANSWER: Hi Betty Lou,
There is on-board the vehicle, centered in the PCM, a self-diagnostic capability. With a plug-in reader the mechanic asks the PCM what is at fault, and the PCM gives back 4-digit coded numbers each of which is specific as to what is wrong and there are specific diagnostic protocols published by Chrysler for working through a set of steps to determine exactly what to repair/replace to solve the problem. I would go to the dealer, and ask them to show you the fault code readout, even better do the readout in front of you and show you the fault codes, then ask them to show you the manual for "Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures" (#81-699-97108) which they have pursued or will pursue to analyze and repair the problem correctly. If they will not do this, then I would find an independent shop which has the skills and manuals to do the job. They need to show you that they have firm knowledge that replacing the PCM WILL FIX the PROBLEM. Otherwise tell them that if you authorized replacing the PCM and it doesn't fix the problem for at least 90 days under warranty that you will expect a refund or free repair of what is really wrong.
This is not an inexpensive part, but it is a minimal job to replace it. So make sure they give you the old one so that it can be put back in if they are wrong and your money for the unnecessary replacement refunded to you.
Write back to me telling me what codes have come out on the reader (these begin with P and are followed by 4 digits). Also summarize what they may have done in response to getting the codes. Then we can compare that to the same manual which I have sitting here in front of me. Then you can decide whether to authorize the replacement or tow it elsewhere (though I believe if you approach the manager in this manner you may get a straight answer and you can then consider whether to leave it with them or not.)
Best wishes to you as you pursue a proper repair.
Roland
PS Verify that you have the 2.5L V-6 engine, and if not which engine is in the car.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Ok, here is what happened. They said, no read out Code. Number you asked for not right.The PCM is out. only re-out is P-dead. Nothing to show me. No manual. No part. chrysler is out. After many talks, I found out Chicago has part, but Houston can't get. Chyrsler head office is out til end of Oct.I called Chicago, now Houston is trying to figure out how to get. After installing, something else could be wrong. wiring etc. This is really getting crazy.
AnswerHi Betty Lou,
I don't believe what they said. I didn't ask for any specific number, I asked for any 4-digit numbers and in the convention of the trade they are prefixed by a "p". So that is obfuscation.
I would ask them did the reader say "No Response"? If so, then they are obligated to check the three voltage supplies (pins 20. 46, and 61) and verify the ground wires(pins 10 and 50) on the plug that connects to the PCM. If those are not what they are supposed to be (10 volts, 10 volts, and 6 volts, respectively), and grounded for the other two pins, then they have to repair that fault first as that may well be the only problem. Such a "wiring" problem may be all that is wrong, and then they will have charged you for the PCM when it really isn't needed. I would question the competence of any shop that tells you to get a multi-hundred dollar part first without any assurance (and return for credit) if it is not the answer.
If they did not get "no response" then ask them exactly what appeared on the screen of the reader?
This smells of incompetence, but I would press them on these questions. My reference is page 685 of the powertrain diagnostic procedures for the Sebring 2.5L convertible (1998).
Hang in there!
Roland
