Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Section 13 (Alternator & Regulator): Operation
The PCM, monitors critical input to control fuel injection, ignition, emission and other engine management functions. The PCM has also been programmed to monitor following charging system related circuits:
- Battery Feed To PCM
- Alternator Field Control
- Battery Charging Voltage (High And Low)
If a problem is sensed in a monitored circuit, a trouble code is stored in PCM memory and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) will illuminate (with a few exceptions). Trouble codes can be read using the MIL or with the Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD) Diagnostic Readout Box (DRB).
For certain trouble codes, MIL will illuminate and PCM will enter limp-in mode. In limp-in mode, PCM attempts to compensate for particular component failure by substituting information from other sources. This allows vehicle operation until proper repairs are made.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.