Fault Codes

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Codes 11-17

Codes 21-27

Codes 31-37

Codes 41-47

Codes 51-55

This page lists and describes the fault codes for the Chrysler electronic fuel injection engine control units (ECU) for 2.2L and 2.5L engines from 1984 through 1994. Many of them also apply to other engine types and model years after 1994, but I do not have any specific information on them.$nbsp; Unlike many other vehicle manufacturers, it is possible to retrieve these fault codes without any special tools, connectors, or diagnosticboxes. All you need is your ignition key.

Fault Codes Example
Printable Fault Codes for 2.2L or 2.5L non-turbo engines
Printable Fault Codes for 3.0L V6 non-turbo engines
Printable Fault Codes for Turbo I and Turbo II engines
Printable Fault Codes for Turbo IV (VNT) engines

How To Get The Fault Codes

Shut your engine off if it is running. Turn the iginition key to the on and off positions (do not turn the key to the start position) within 5 seconds using this sequence: ON-OFF-ON-OFF-ON.

The "Power Loss", "Limited", or "Check Engine" light will begin flashing. By counting the number of flashes between delays, you will retrieve two digit numbers. So, for a code 12 and a code 55, you would see the following sequence:

FLASH-(delay)-FLASH-FLASH-(long delay)
FLASH-FLASH-FLASH-FLASH-FLASH-(delay)-FLASH-FLASH-FLASH-FLASH-FLASH

All code sequences end with a code 55, so once you've received a 55 there are no further messages. If you just receive a code 55, that means there are no codes to send (the ECU thinks everything is OK). It is also normal see a code 33 if you do not have air conditioning. You will never see more than 7 flashes in a row, so watch for delays. A code will stay in the ECU for 15 engine on/off cycles, so don't expect a code to disappear immediately after you make a repair. To see if you have fixed the problem that generated the code, your can erase all codes by removing power to the ECU (by disconnecting the battery or otherwise) for about 10 minutes. This will clear the ECU's memory and generate code 11 and code 12. Crank or start the engine to see if the code in question returns. The code 11 should disappear as soon as the engine is cranked and the code 12 will disappear after 15 on/off cycles.

When the ECU has a failure of a major sensor or component, it will activate a "limp-in" mode. In this mode, it will ignore data from the failed sensor and use backup values for timing, injector pulse width, etc. This allows you to "limp in" to your service station (or home) to allow you to repair the problem. If your vehicle suddenly starts to run badly and/or the power loss light comes on, the first thing you should do when you get home is to check the codes.

After the codes have been delivered, you can try the switch tests. These tests are for all driver inputs (brakes, A/C switch, cruise, etc). The test is performed by simply pressing the switches and pedals. If the input is working properly, the power loss light will come on when it is activated and will go out when it is deactivated.

For more information about the ECU and switch tests, see the Understanding The Chrysler Engine Control Unit page.

The Fault Codes

Below is a list of the codes. Some have multiple definitions, some of which depend on what year the vehicle is or what engine the vehicle has, so be sure you're looking at the right one. I have included every code and explanation that I have been able to gather, starting with the one that is most likely to occur. If any of the codes seem like they are missing information or are sketchy, feel free to drop me a line, but realize that the most likely reason the information is not there is because I don't have it. There are other causes other than those that are listed which could cause any of these codes, but the most likely causes that I know of are listed here. Some fixes may just say "Replace X" where X is something expensive like a logic module or a SMEC. Always try to swap this part temporarily with another one (a friend's) to see if it is really the problem before you go out and buy one.

To see an example and explanation of how the fault code pages work, see the Fault Code Example page. If you see an abbreviation or acronym that you are not familiar with, see the Commonly Used Abbreviations Reference. All sensors and other components that are related to the fault code are provided with a link at their first occurance. This link will lead to a page with details about the sensor, how it works, how it is used by the logic module, and how to test them (if possible).

Use an ohmmeter or continuity tester when checking for wiring continuity or shorts and always use a dielectric contact grease after cleaning connector contacts to stop corrosion. You should have wiring diagrams to your car handy when doing any electrical troubleshooting. These are available as the original, Mopar service manuals or in an aftermarket manual such as Haye's or Chilton's. It is always good to have the original service manuals since they have the most detailed information about your vehicle. Call DDS at (440) 572-7240 to order a set of service manuals (be sure to know the model and year of your vehicle), or see the Ordering Service Manuals page.

List Of Codes

11	- All models
12	- All models
13	- All models
14	- All models
15	- All models
16	- All models
17	- 1985 models only
	- 1986 models only
	- 1987 and later models

21	- All models
22	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 and later models
23	- Models with TBI engines only
	- 1984 models with turbo engines only
	- 1985 and later models with turbo engines
24	- All models
25	- All models
26	- Models with TBI engines
	- Models with MPI engines
27	- Models with TBI engines
	- Models with MPI engines

31	- All models before 1987 and all L-body models
	- 1987 and later models, except L-body
32	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 and later models
33	- All models
34	- All Models before 1987 and all L-body models
	- 1987 and later models, except L-body
35	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 and later models
36	- Models with MPI N/A engines only
	- Models with standard turbo (Turbo I, II and III) engines only
	- Models with VNT (Turbo IV) engines only
37	- Models with N/A engines and automatic transmissions only
	- Models with turbo engines only

41	- All models
42	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 - 1987 models only
	- 1988 and later models
43	- All models
44	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 - 1987 models only
	- 1988 and later models
45	- Models with turbo engines only
46	- All models
47	- All models

51	- 1984 models only
	- 1985 models only
	- 1986 and later models
52	- 1985 models only
	- 1986 and later models
53	- All models
54	- 1985 models only
	- 1984, 1986, and later models
55	- All models

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Disclaimer: By using any of the methods or ideas expressed on any of these pages, you take full responsibility for anything that may happen to you, your car, anyone, any property, or anything. Not I nor anyone else will be held responsible for anything that may result from using any of the information included on any of these pages. To make the lawyers happy: THIS INFORMATION IS GIVEN "AS IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTIES AS TO PERFORMANCE OF OR ANY OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IS OFFERED. BY USING THIS INFORMATION YOU RELEASE THE AUTHOR AND ANYONE ELSE WHO MAY HAVE CONTRIBUTED FROM ANY LIABILITY WHATSOEVER.

Updated 10/19/2003.