Section 12 (Engine Controls - Basic Testing): Introduction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 1994 Plymouth Sundance, 1994 Plymouth Acclaim, 1994 Eagle Vision, 1994 Dodge Spirit, and 1994 Dodge Shadow. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES
article in GENERAL INFORMATION section before disconnecting battery.
The following diagnostic steps 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 entering self-diagnostics, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Most engine control problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.
NOTE:
Perform voltage tests using a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) with a minimum 10-megohm input impedance, unless otherwise stated in test procedure.