SUBJECT: Symptomless Misfire Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's)
NO: 18-47-98
GROUP: Vehicle Performance
DATE: Dec. 18, 1998
MODELS: 1997-1999 (PL) Neon
NOTE: THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.OL SOHC/DOHC ENGINE BUILT PRIOR TO NOV. 3,1998 (MDH 1103XX).
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicles may exhibit a condition where the MIL illuminates for misfire but no reasons can be found for the misfire fault occurrence. In some cases, there may be minor engine roughness on initial cold engine start - up. Customers may explain the condition as a MIL illumination "only" with no other symptoms felt or noticed. In many cases the occurrence is experienced on a cold engine start.
DIAGNOSIS:

Using the Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS/MDS2) or the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DRB 1110) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual, verify all engine/transmission systems are functioning as designed. If non misfire related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are present, record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin. If SINGLE or MULTIPLE CYLINDER MIS-FIRE DTC's are present, follow all mis-fire diagnostics listed in the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual before proceeding with this flash repair. If no cause for the MIS-FIRE DTC's are found, perform the Repair Procedure.
NOTE: WHENEVER A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) IS REPLACED DUE TO FAILURE, THE SOFTWARE OF THE REPLACEMENT CONTROLLER SHOULD BE VERIFIED FOR THE LATEST REVISION LEVEL. USE THE FLASH PROCEDURE TO UPDATE REPLACED CONTROLLERS AS NECESSARY.
EQUIPMENT/PARTS REQUIRED:
1 CH6000 Scan Tool (DRB 1110)
1 CH7035 General Purpose Interface Bus Cable (GPIB)
1 CH7000/7001 J 1962 Cable
1 04669020 Label - Authorized Software Update
1 04275086 Label - Authorized Modification

NOTE: THE MDS AND DRB 1110 ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM THIS REPAIR AND THE SYSTEM MUST BE OPERATING WITH RELEASE 21 OR HIGHER AND TIL CD RELEASE 1175 OR HIGHER MUST BE INSTALLED.
REPAIR PROCEDURE:

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

1 . Connect the MDS (Mopar Diagnostic System) and DRB 1110 (Scan Tool) to the vehicle and power them up.
2. Use the arrow keys and select #2 CONNECT TO MDS 1 OR MDS 2 on the DRB 1110 MAIN MENU Screen.
3. Select #1 MDS DIAGNOSTICS OR DRB UPDATE on the DRB 1110.
4. Use the arrow keys and select DIAGNOSTIC MENU on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.
5. Use the arrow keys and select VEHICLE CONTROLLER PROGRAMMING on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.
6. Use the arrow keys and select PROGRAMMING OF ALL OTHER CONTROLLERS USING MDS & DRB 1110 on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.
7. Follow the steps presented on the MDS and DRB III" which will allow the DRB 1110 to obtain the current part number of the PCM.
8. The MDS will display the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and the appropriate replacement part number, then press NEXT MENU to begin programming.
If the PCM on the vehicle has already been updated or programmed, a NO UPDATES AVAILABLE message will be displayed. Check the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and compare it to the part number displayed. If the PCM has already been updated, then another condition exists that will require further diagnosis and repair.
9. The MDS and DRB 1110 will prompt for any operator action needed during the remainder of the programming process.

NOTE: THE FOLLOWING STEPS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW.

10. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Software Update Label" p/n 04669020 (Figure 1). Attach the label to the PCM and cover the label with the clear plastic overlay.

11. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label" p/n 04275086 and attach the label near the VECI Label (Figure 2).

POLICY: Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
Labor Operation No- 08-19-40-99 PCM, Reprogram 0.5 Hrs.