Electronic Vehicle Info Center: Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Pickup and 2004 Dodge Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) is a module located in the overhead console on some models. The EVIC module features a large Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) screen for displaying information, and back-lit push button switches labeled C/T (compass/temperature), RESET, STEP, and MENU.

The EVIC module contains a central processing unit and interfaces with other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI) J1850 data bus circuit. The PCI data bus circuit allows the sharing of sensor information. This helps to reduce wire harness complexity, reduce internal controller hardware, and reduce component sensor current loads. At the same time, this system provides increased reliability, enhanced diagnostics, and allows the addition of many new feature capabilities.

The EVIC "Menu" push button provides the vehicle operator with a user interface, which allows the selection of several optional customer programmable electronic features to suit individual preferences. Refer to ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER PROGRAMMING for more information on the customer programmable feature options.

If the vehicle is equipped with the optional universal transmitter transceiver, the EVIC will also display messages and an icon indicating when the universal transmitter transceiver is being trained, which of the three transmitter buttons is transmitting, and when the transceiver is cleared.

Data input for all EVIC functions, including VFD dimming level, is received through the J1850 PCI data bus circuit. The EVIC module uses its internal programming and all of its data inputs to calculate and display the requested data. If the data displayed is incorrect, perform the self-diagnostic tests as described in this article. If these tests prove inconclusive, the use of a DRB III(R) scan tool and BODY DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES are recommended for further testing of the EVIC module and the J1850 PCI data bus circuit.

The EVIC module cannot be repaired, and is available for service only as a unit. If any part is faulty or damaged, the complete EVIC module must be replaced.