Experiencing problems with your 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Obd2 port can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it’s accompanied by an illuminated Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) light. Many DIY mechanics and truck owners face similar challenges when trying to diagnose issues on their vehicles. This article details a troubleshooting journey focused on resolving a no-power issue to the OBD2 scanner and the subsequent steps taken to address ETC problems on a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500.
The initial problem presented itself as a complete lack of response from the accelerator pedal, coupled with the ETC light glowing on the dashboard. Further investigation revealed a more fundamental issue: the OBD2 scanner was not receiving power, rendering it useless for diagnostics. This lack of power extended beyond the OBD2 port, also affecting the remote central door locks and the dome light, indicating a broader electrical problem within the truck’s system.
The key to resolving the OBD2 scanner issue was tracing the power supply. After a meticulous process of elimination, which involved removing the power control module – often referred to as the fuse box – a corroded wire was identified as the culprit. This wire was located approximately 3 inches downstream from connector 1, which plugs directly into the power control module. The location of the damage was deceptively subtle; there were no visible tears or abrasions on the wire’s plastic shielding, only a slight bump. Upon closer examination, tugging gently on the wire revealed the extent of the corrosion. The plastic shroud was the only thing holding the wire together, and inside, the copper strands were heavily oxidized, displaying the characteristic green corrosion often seen on battery terminals.
Alt text: Severely corroded wire removed from a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500, showing green oxidation indicative of electrical damage, which was causing OBD2 port malfunction.
Prior to repairing this corroded wire, voltage testing at pin 16 of the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 OBD2 connector showed a mere 1 volt. However, after carefully repairing the wire, the voltage reading jumped to a healthy 12 volts. This repair immediately restored power to all the affected systems in the cabin, including the remote door unlock, dome light, and, crucially, the OBD2 port.
With the power issue resolved, the OBD2 scanner became functional, and even the trip meter reset and key-turn diagnostic method started working – functionalities that were previously disabled due to the power fault. This breakthrough allowed for further troubleshooting of the original ETC problem.
Turning attention back to the engine performance issue, the OBD2 scanner now reported a P0202 code, indicating a problem with fuel injector #2. To investigate this, an Ohm meter was used to test the resistance of injector #2, as well as two other injectors for comparison. The resistance readings were consistent across all three injectors, suggesting the injector itself might not be faulty. The next step in diagnosing the P0202 code involves checking for a pulsing voltage signal at the fuel injector solenoid connector, which will require a specialized tester.
Alt text: Fuel injector on a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 engine, component potentially related to the P0202 OBD2 error code requiring diagnostic testing.
Additionally, a new throttle body has been ordered as a precautionary measure. It’s suspected that aggressive cleaning with engine degreaser might have inadvertently damaged the original throttle body during earlier troubleshooting attempts. Replacing the throttle body is a proactive step to eliminate it as a potential source of the ongoing ETC issues.
In conclusion, resolving the power issue to the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 OBD2 port was a critical first step in diagnosing the ETC problems. Pinpointing and repairing the corroded wire restored essential diagnostic capabilities and cabin electrical functions. The troubleshooting process now continues, focusing on the P0202 fuel injector code and exploring potential throttle body issues to fully resolve the engine performance problems. Further updates will follow as the diagnosis progresses.
