Let’s say you’re driving your Ram 1500, and the “Check Engine” light suddenly illuminates on your dashboard. You plug in an OBD-II scanner, and it spits out the code P0514. What does it mean? You’re not alone – thousands of RAM owners have encountered this exact scenario.
With over 100 OBD/OBD2 codes to decipher, it can be overwhelming. However, understanding these codes is key to diagnosing and fixing the problem quickly and efficiently. So, what’s behind code P0514, and how can you use it to get your Ram back on the road?
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Understanding Diagnostic Trouble Codes
When you encounter an issue with your vehicle, understanding Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) is essential to identifying and resolving the problem efficiently.
DTCs are five-digit codes divided into four subsets: powertrain, network and integration, body, and chassis. The first number in the DTC indicates whether the fault code is manufacturer-specific or generic. In contrast, the last three numbers provide specific information on the troubled vehicle system or circuit.
P codes, which deal with the powertrain system, are the largest category of OBD-II codes, with over 1,000 possible codes. By understanding DTCs, you’ll be able to diagnose and repair issues related to these codes, ensuring your vehicle is back on the road quickly.
Navigating OBD-II Code Lists
When troubleshooting issues with your Ram vehicle, you’re likely to find yourself digging through OBD-II code lists, and understanding how to navigate these lists efficiently is critical to identifying and resolving problems quickly.
As you search through the lists, you’ll come across manufacturer-specific codes, such as P, B, C, and U codes, which relate to specific vehicle systems and components in your Dodge Ram.
To navigate these lists effectively, it’s essential to understand the coding structure, including the first number indicating whether the code is manufacturer-specific or generic, and the last three numbers providing specific information on the troubled vehicle system or circuit.
Troubleshooting Ram Vehicle Issues
You have access to more than one hundred OBD/OBD2 codes to diagnose issues with your Ram vehicle’s powertrain, body, chassis, and network systems.
You can use these codes to identify problems with your engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. For instance, the P0514 code indicates a battery temperature sensor circuit range/performance issue, which can be resolved by reflashing the ECM or seeking professional assistance.
To troubleshoot issues and find solutions, you can access online resources, such as forums and diagnostic code lists.
Search for specific codes, like P0456, P10300, and U1418, to find discussions and solutions related to your vehicle’s issue.
Most Common Ram OBD-II Trouble Codes
Code Structure
The diagnostic codes follow this format:
- First Letter: P (Powertrain), B (Body), C (Chassis), U (Network)
- First Number: 0 (Generic/SAE standard) or 1 (Manufacturer specific)
- Second Number: System category (0-7)
- Last Two Numbers: Specific fault code
Common RAM Diagnostic Trouble Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0118 | Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input |
| P0300 | Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected |
| P0301-P0308 | Cylinder #1-#8 Misfire Detected |
| P0420 | Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold |
| P0506 | Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected |
| P0507 | Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected |
| P0601 | Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error |
| P0602 | Control Module Programming Error |
| P0700 | Transmission Control System Malfunction |
| P1285 | Cylinder Head Over Temperature Sensed |
| P1299 | Cylinder Head Overtemperature Protection Active |
| P1391 | Glow Plug Circuit Low Input (Bank #1) |
| P1392 | Glow Plug Circuit High Input (Bank #1) |
| P1393 | Glow Plug Circuit Low Input (Bank #2) |
| P1394 | Glow Plug Circuit High Input (Bank #2 |
| P1408 | EGR Flow Out Of Self Test Range |
| P1442 | Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected |
Transmission Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0730 | Incorrect Gear Ratio |
| P0731 | Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0732 | Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0733 | Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0734 | Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0735 | Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0736 | Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio |
Sensor Related Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0122 | Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Low Input |
| P0123 | Throttle Position Sensor Circuit High Input |
| P0131 | O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1) |
| P0132 | O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1) |
| P0133 | O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1) |
| P0336 | Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0340 | Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit |
Variable Cam Timing Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P1381 | Variable Cam Timing Overadvanced (Bank #1) |
| P1382 | Variable Cam Timing Solenoid #1 Circuit Malfunction |
| P1383 | Variable Cam Timing Overretarded (Bank #1) |
| P1384 | VVT Solenoid A Malfunction |
| P1385 | Variable Cam Timing Solenoid B Malfunction |
Fan Control Codes
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P1472 | Electrodrive Fan 2 Operational Failure |
| P1473 | Fan Secondary High With Fan(s) Off |
| P1474 | Low Fan Control Primary Circuit Malfunction |
| P1475 | Fan Relay (Low) Circuit Malfunction |
| P1476 | Fan Relay (High) Circuit Malfunction |
