Section 16 (Engine Controls - Basic Diagnostic Procedures - Except Coupe): Introduction

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Stratus and 2003 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a No-Start condition. The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the customer's complaint with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred.

Before proceeding with basic diagnostic procedures, ensure testing procedure is followed, as some systems which may result in a No-Start condition may cause a Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) to be stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). See the following:

On 2.4L, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN & STRATUS SEDAN - 2.4L article.
On 2.7L, see DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN & STRATUS SEDAN - 2.7L article.

If No-Start condition still exists after checking and repairing all DTCs, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Many problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. See VISUAL INSPECTION under PRELIMINARY INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENTS. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.

NOTE: Perform all voltage tests with a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) with a minimum 10-megohm input impedance, unless stated otherwise in test procedure.