Know the Code

Jeeps equipped with a Chrysler computer ('91 and later models) and fuel injection have a "fault code" feature in the engine controller. This allows the engine controller to detect certain "faults" in the system. The codes indicate the result of a failure, but do not identify the failed component directly. The codes are displayed by the CHECK ENGINE light flashing a sequence of two-digit codes.

To display the codes, start with the ignition off. Within five seconds, switch the key on then off 3 times, and on the third time, leave the key in the on position. (On is not start!) Watch the CHECK ENGINE light, it will then flash the codes. Count the flashes: each code is a two digit code, so a (for example) 33 would be FLASH FLASH FLASH <pause> FLASH FLASH FLASH <long pause> It will never flash more than 9 times, so watch for pauses. 55 is end of codes, 33 is normal if you don't have air conditioning. Please note that some codes are NOT included below, this is not a complete listing, but it IS very close to complete.

Unfortunately, this trick won't work for 1998 and later (OBD-II era) Jeeps. The information returned by OBD-II is more complex, and requires a code scanner ($100-300) to retrieve.

Code	Description
11*	No crank reference signal detected during engine cranking.
12*	Direct battery input to PCM was disconnected within the last 50 key-on cycles.
13**	No difference recognized between the engine MAP reading and the barometric (atmosphereic) pressure reading at start-up
14**	MAP sensor input below minimum acceptable voltage. or MAP sensor input above maximum acceptable voltage.
15**	No vehicle distance (speed) sensor signal detected during road load conditions.
17*	Engine coolant temperature remains below normal operating temperatures during vehicle travel (thermostat).
21**	Neither rich nor lean condition detected from the oxygen sensor input. or Oxygen sensor input voltage maintained above the normal operating range.
22**	Engine coolant temperature sensor input above maximum acceptable voltage. or Engine coolant temperature sensor input below minimum acceptable voltage.
23**	Intake manifold air temperature sensor input above maximum acceptable voltage. or Intake manifold air temperature sensor input below minimum acceptable voltage.
24**	Throttle position sensor input above maximum acceptable voltage. or Throttle position sensor input below minimum acceptable voltage.
25**	A shorted condition detected in one or more of the idle air control motor circuits.
27*	Injector #1 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal. or Injector #2 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal. or Injector #3 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal. or Injector #4 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal. or Injector #5 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal. or Injector #6 output driver does not respond properly to the control signal.
33*	An open or shorted condition detected in the A/C clutch relay circuit.
34*	An open or shorted condition detected in the speed control vacuum or vent solenoid circuits. or Speed control switch input below the minimum acceptable voltage. or Speed control switch input above the maximum acceptable voltage.
35*	An open or shorted condition detected in the radiator fan relay circuit.
41*	An open or shorted condition detected in the generator field control circuit.
42*	An open or shorted condition detected in the auto shutdown relay circuit.
44*	An open or shorted condition exists in the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit or a problem exists in the PCM's battery temperature voltage circuit.
46**	Battery voltage sense input above target charging voltage during engine operation.
47**	Battery voltage sense input below target charging voltage during engine operation. Also, no significant change detected in battery voltage during active test of generator output.
51**	Oxygen sensor signal input indicates lean air/fuel ratio condition during engine operation.
52**	Oxygen sensor signal input indicates rich air/fuel ratio condition during engine operation.
53*	PCM internal fault condition detected.
54*	No fuel sync (camshaft signal) detected during engine cranking.
55*	Completion of diagnostic trouble code display on the malfunction indicator lamp (check engine lamp).
62*	Unsuccessful attempt to update SRI (service reminder indicator) miles in the PCM EEPROM.
63*	Unsuccessful attempt to write to an EEPROM location by the PCM.

* - Check engine lamp will not illuminate at all times if this code was recorded. Cycle ignition key as described and observe code flashed by check engine lamp.

** - Check engine lamp will illuminate during engine operation if this code was recorded.