Stratus L4-2.4L VIN X (1998)
Body Control Module: Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Airbag Diagnostic Trouble Codes
AIRBAG DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
Airbag diagnostic trouble codes consist of active and stored codes. If more than one code exists, diagnostic priority should be given to the active
code(s).
Each diagnostic trouble code is diagnosed by following a specific testing procedure. The diagnostic test procedures contain step-by-step
instructions for determining the cause of the trouble codes. It is not necessary to perform all of the tests in this book to diagnose an individual
code.
Always begin by reading the diagnostic trouble codes using the DRB. This procedure begins with AIRBAG TEST 1A - Identifying Airbag System
Problems. This will direct you to the specific test(s) that must be performed. If more than one code exists, diagnostic priority should be given to
the active code(s).
Active diagnostic trouble codes for the airbag system are not permanent and will change the moment the reason for the code is corrected. In certain
test procedures within this manual, diagnostic trouble codes are used as a diagnostic tool.
3.12.1 Active Codes
ACTIVE CODES
An active trouble code indicates an on-going malfunction. This means that the defect is currently there every time the airbag control module
checks that circuit/function. It is impossible to erase an active code; active codes automatically erase by themselves when the reason for the code
has been corrected.
With the exception of the warning lamp trouble codes or malfunctions, when a malfunction is detected, the AIRBAG lamp remains lit for a
minimum of 12 seconds or as long as the malfunction is present.
3.12.2 Stored Codes
STORED CODES
Airbag codes are automatically stored in the ACM's memory when the ignition is turned off with the exception of the Loss of Ignition Run Only
code, which is an active code only.
A "stored" code indicates there was an active code present at some time. However, the code currently may not be present as an active code,
although another active code could be.
When a trouble code occurs, the AIRBAG warning lamp illuminates for 12 seconds minimum (even if the problem existed for less than 12
seconds). The code is stored, along with the time in minutes it was active, and the number of times the ignition has been cycled since the problem
was last detected.
The minimum time shown for any code will be one minute, even if the code was actually present for less than one minute. Thus, the time shown
for a code that was present for two minutes 13 seconds, for example, would be three minutes.
If a malfunction is detected, a diagnostic trouble code is stored and will remain stored as long as the malfunction exists. When and if the
malfunction ceases to exist, an ignition cycle count will be initiated for that code. If the ignition cycle count reaches 100 without a reoccurrence of
that same malfunction, that diagnostic trouble code is erased and that ignition cycle counter is reset to zero. If the malfunction reoccurs before the
count reaches 100, then the ignition cycle counter will be reset and the diagnostic trouble code will continue to be a stored code.
If a malfunction is not active while performing a diagnostic test procedure, the active code diagnostic test will not locate the source of the problem.
In this case, the stored code can indicate an area to inspect.
If no obvious problems are found, erase stored codes, and with the ignition "on," wiggle the wire harness and connectors, rotate the steering wheel
from stop to stop. Recheck for codes periodically as you work through the system. This procedure may uncover a malfunction that is difficult to
locate.
Diagnostic Strategies
VEHICLE PREPARATION FOR TESTING
Make sure the vehicle being tested has a fully charged battery. If it does not, false diagnostic codes or error messages may occur.
SIX-STEP TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURE
Diagnosis of the body system is done in six basic steps:
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Verification Of Complaint
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Verification Of Any Related Symptoms
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Symptom Analysis
