Experiencing issues with your 1996 Plymouth Voyager? Understanding the diagnostic codes can be the first step towards resolving car problems efficiently. For owners of the 1996 Plymouth Voyager, navigating the onboard diagnostics system, specifically understanding the OBD2 connection and interpreting error codes, is crucial for vehicle maintenance and repair. This guide will walk you through common error codes for the 1996 Plymouth Voyager and how to interpret flashing light signals from your HVAC system, empowering you with the knowledge to troubleshoot potential issues.
Understanding OBD and Your 1996 Voyager
The 1996 model year is significant in automotive diagnostics as it marks the widespread adoption of On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) systems in vehicles sold in the United States. OBD2 is a standardized system that provides access to a vehicle’s health information. It allows you, or a mechanic, to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using a scan tool, helping to pinpoint problems within your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other systems.
For your 1996 Plymouth Voyager, the OBD2 port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Once you locate this port, you can connect an OBD2 scanner to read any stored diagnostic codes. These codes are usually represented by a series of numbers and letters, each indicating a specific area or type of malfunction.
Decoding Common Error Codes on a 1996 Plymouth Voyager
Let’s delve into some common error codes that might appear when you connect an OBD2 scanner to your 1996 Plymouth Voyager, based on the original user’s experience:
Code 12: Battery Disconnect (Informational)
This code, “1 flash – pause – 2 flashes,” translates to code 12. It’s often an informational code indicating that the battery has been disconnected within the last 50 engine starts. Code 12 itself isn’t usually a cause for alarm and typically doesn’t trigger the Service Engine Soon (SES) light. Think of it as more of a notification than a critical error. If you’ve recently disconnected your battery for maintenance, this code is expected. If not, it might simply be a historical code and not indicative of a current problem.
Code 32: EGR Solenoid Circuit Fault
The code “3 flashes – pause – 2 flashes” points to code 32, which relates to an EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) solenoid circuit fault. In modern OBD2 terms, this is often equivalent to a P0403 code. The EGR system is important for reducing emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gas back into the engine intake. A fault in the EGR solenoid circuit can affect the system’s operation, potentially leading to increased emissions and engine performance issues.
Possible causes for a code 32/P0403 could include:
- A faulty EGR solenoid.
- Wiring issues within the EGR solenoid circuit (e.g., shorts, opens, corrosion).
- Problems with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), although this is less common.
Code 41: Alternator Field Not Switching
The code “4 flashes – pause – 1 flash” indicates code 41, signaling an issue with the alternator field not switching. This is a more serious code as it directly relates to your vehicle’s charging system. If your alternator field is not switching correctly, your battery may not be charging properly, which can lead to a dead battery and potential electrical system problems. You should typically see the battery warning light illuminate on your dashboard if code 41 is present.
When you encounter code 41, it’s crucial to:
- Have your charging system tested immediately. Many auto parts stores offer free charging system tests.
- Check the alternator and battery connections for looseness or corrosion.
- Consider the possibility of a failing alternator.
Resetting Diagnostic Codes
A useful first step after noting down the error codes is to reset them. You can do this by disconnecting the negative battery cable for a couple of minutes. After reconnecting the battery, start your Plymouth Voyager and rescan for codes. This will help you determine if the codes are still active or were historical issues. It’s important to note which codes reappear after resetting, as these are the ones requiring further investigation.
Decoding Flashing HVAC Lights
Beyond engine diagnostic codes, flashing lights on your heater panel can also indicate problems. Specifically, if the Rear Wiper and Rear Intermittent switch lights are flashing simultaneously, this signals that the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system’s diagnostic tests have failed. These lights will continue to flash until the system passes its self-calibration and diagnostic tests.
This flashing often occurs after replacing the HVAC control module or if the system detects an issue. Fortunately, you can initiate a calibration and diagnostic test to attempt to resolve this.
Actuator Calibration/Diagnostics Procedure
The following steps outline how to initiate the Actuator Calibration/Diagnostics and Cooldown test for your 1996 Plymouth Voyager’s HVAC system:
- Set the Blower motor to HIGH.
- Set the Mode position to Panel, opening all A/C outlets.
- Set the Temperature to Cold (using both slide pots if your Voyager is equipped with dual-zone climate control).
- Simultaneously depress and hold the WASH and REAR WIPER buttons for 5 seconds. Continue holding until all the LED lights on the HVAC panel illuminate for 5 seconds.
Interpreting the LED Signals During the Test:
- All LEDs turn on for 5 seconds: This indicates the test initiation was successful.
- REAR WIPER and INTERMITTENT LEDs alternately flashing: The Calibration Test is in progress.
- A/C and RECIRC LEDs alternately flashing: The Cooldown Test is in progress (if applicable to your model).
- REAR WIPER LED is the only LED flashing: This indicates a successful pass of the Calibration, Diagnostics, and Cooldown tests. You can then push the Rear Wiper button to exit the test mode.
- REAR WIPER and INTERMITTENT LEDs flashing simultaneously: Calibration Diagnostics failed.
- A/C and RECIRC LEDs flashing simultaneously: Cooldown failed.
- REAR WIPER and INTERMITTENT LEDs AND A/C and RECIRC LEDs flashing simultaneously: Both Calibration Diagnostics and Cooldown tests have failed.
Calibration/Cooldown LED Display Codes
Here’s a table summarizing the LED display codes and corrective actions:
| LEDs | Status | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| No LEDs Flashing | Normal Operation – Passed Calibration, Diagnostics, and Cooldown | None |
| REAR WIPER and INTERMITTENT LEDs Flash Simultaneously | Failed Calibration Diagnostics | Run Calibration Test |
| A/C and RECIRC LEDs Flash Simultaneously | Failed Cooldown | Run Cooldown Test |
| REAR WIPER & INTERMITTENT & A/C & RECIRC Flash Simultaneously | Failed Calibration, Diagnostics, and Cooldown Test | Run Calibration Test |
Cooldown Test Entry
If you suspect issues with your A/C performance, you can run the Cooldown test separately:
- Set the Blower motor to HIGH.
- Set the Mode position to Panel, opening all A/C outlets.
- Set the Temperature to Cold.
- Depress and hold the WASH and A/C buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.
Important Note: Before starting the Cooldown test, if the evaporator is already cold, the test might fail. To ensure an accurate test, operate the system with the A/C OFF and the blower motor ON high for about three minutes prior to starting the test.
Interpreting Cooldown Test Results:
- All LEDs turn on for 5 seconds: Test initiated.
- A/C and RECIRC LEDs are alternately flashing: Cooldown Test is running.
- A/C and RECIRC LEDs are flashing simultaneously: Cooldown Test has failed.
Aborting Calibration/Diagnostics and Cooldown Tests
You can abort these tests in several ways:
- Depressing Rear Window Defogger, RECIRC, and Rear Wiper buttons.
- Cycling the Ignition OFF and then ON.
- The control will automatically abort after 15 minutes if left running.
Conclusion
Understanding the OBD2 system and diagnostic procedures for your 1996 Plymouth Voyager can save you time and money on car repairs. By learning to interpret error codes and HVAC flashing light signals, you can take a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance. While this guide provides a starting point, remember that complex issues may require professional diagnostic equipment and expertise. If you’re unsure about any diagnosis or repair procedure, always consult a certified mechanic to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your vehicle.
